# What is online blackjack and how does it work
Online blackjack is a popular card game that is played over the internet. It is a digital version of the classic blackjack game found in brick-and-mortar casinos. In online blackjack, players compete against the dealer with the goal of achieving a hand total that is closer to 21 than the dealer's hand, without going over 21. In this article, we will explore the basics of online blackjack, including its rules, gameplay, and some strategies to help you improve your chances of winning.
Online blackjack follows the same fundamental rules as its traditional counterpart. A standard deck of 52 cards is used, and each card is assigned a point value. Number cards 2 through 10 are worth their face value, face cards (i.e., Jacks, Queens, and Kings) are valued at 10 points each, and Aces can be worth either 1 or 11 points, depending on which value is more favorable for the player. The objective is to have a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer's hand, without exceeding it.
To start playing online blackjack, you need to find a reputable online casino or gambling platform that offers the game. Once you have registered an account and made a deposit, you can access the blackjack tables. Most online casinos offer a range of blackjack variations to choose from, including classic blackjack, European blackjack, and live dealer blackjack.
In online blackjack, the game is typically played against a computerized dealer, also known as the virtual dealer. The virtual dealer will deal two cards to each player, including themselves. One of the dealer's cards is face-up, while the other is face-down. The player's cards are all dealt face-up. The player then makes decisions based on the value of their hand and the dealer's face-up card.
The main actions a player can take in online blackjack are as follows:
Hit: Request an additional card to increase the value of your hand.
Stand: Decline any further cards and keep your current hand.
Double Down: Double your initial bet and receive one more card before standing.
Split: If you have a pair, you can split the cards into two separate hands and play each hand individually. This action requires an additional bet.
Surrender: Some online blackjack games allow players to surrender, forfeiting half of their bet and exiting the round.
Once all players have made their decisions, the virtual dealer reveals their face-down card. If the dealer's hand value is 16 or less, they must hit and draw another card. If the dealer's hand value is 17 or higher, they must stand. The dealer's actions are governed by strict rules, and they have no discretion in their decisions, which sets online blackjack apart from live dealer blackjack where the dealer has more flexibility.
The outcome of each hand is determined by comparing the player's hand against the dealer's hand. If the player's hand value exceeds 21, they go "bust" and lose their bet. If the dealer's hand exceeds 21, all remaining players win their bets. If neither the player nor the dealer goes bust, the hand with a higher value wins. If the player and dealer have the same hand value, it results in a "push," and the player's bet is returned.
To enhance your chances of winning in online blackjack, it is important to understand and utilize basic blackjack strategy. This involves making mathematically optimal decisions based on the value of your hand and the dealer's face-up card. Basic strategy charts are available online, outlining the recommended actions for each possible combination of cards. Following these strategies can significantly reduce the house edge and improve your long-term profitability.