Blackjack is a casino card game that has evolved over the years and continues to evolve today. The game is played between two or more players and a dealer with one to eight 52-card decks. The goal is to accumulate cards with a total higher than the dealer’s without going over 21. The player’s decisions must be made based on a combination of probability and strategy.
Players can choose to hit (request an additional card) or stand (stop drawing cards). The dealer also has options including requesting an additional card, splitting pairs and double downing. Each option has a different effect on the odds of the hand and should be evaluated carefully by each player.
Splitting Pairs
In blackjack, pairs are created by splitting the initial two cards and playing each hand separately. This is usually done when the player has a good chance of beating the dealer’s hand, such as when dealt a pair of aces or tens. A pair of tens can be split and played as a normal hand but a pair of aces must remain together.
Doubling Down
In a blackjack game, doubling down is an option that allows players to increase their original bet size by up to 2 times. This is one of the most profitable choices in blackjack, but players should be careful to not get overconfident and make a mistake that could cost them their money. For example, it is important to not double down when you have an ace and an 11 against a dealer’s 7.
Insurance
When the dealer’s up card is a ten or an ace, players can purchase insurance for half of their original bet amount. This will pay out 2 to 1 if the dealer has a blackjack and cancels out all of the players’ original wagers. This is a risky bet for the player, but it can provide a big payout if the dealer has a blackjack.
Side Bets
In recent decades, many casino blackjack games have added side bets that allow players to place wagers on specific outcomes of the game. These side bets typically require that the player place a bet at the same time as they place their main bet. Some of these side bets are offered exclusively on blackjack tables while others can be found in poker rooms, roulette wheels, and other table games.
How to Become a Casino Dealer
In order to work as a casino dealer, you will need to pass a background check and a fingerprinting process. You will also need to complete a training program and obtain a state license. If you have a felony conviction on your record, you may not be able to serve as a casino dealer.
Blackjack is a game of percentages and the more likely that a dealer will bust, the better for the house. However, there are some rules that can give players an edge over the house. For instance, players should always split 8s and never split 10s or 5s.