The wonderful game of 21. There is rarely a gambler who does not like the game of Blackjack. This is one of the rare games that has simple rules but could be elevated to a professional level. In other words, complete beginners can grasp it, but at the same time, professional players find it challenging. Today, let’s explore some of the basic blackjack rules.
Short Background History
Not many people know that blackjack or “21” is actually a game reduced from the concept of 31. According to some resources, the game originates from 16th century Spain. There are records that show that the famous author Miguel de Cervantes mentioned the game in his work “Rinconete y Cortadillo”.
However, it was not until the 18th century France that blackjack became the game of the upper classes. This is also the time that the concept of 21 as the target count was introduced. One of the recorded descriptions of Blackjack says it is “the first and most simple games of cards”.
The Basic Blackjack Betting Rules
The goal of this game is to go for the total that exceeds the dealer’s total, keeping in mind not to exceed 21 when the dealer does. In order to be able to play Blackjack, the player needs to buy the chip from the dealer. Before engaging in a game, players also need to check the minimum betting amount which is clearly visible on the table. When making bets, these are some of the basic Blackjack rules to follow.
The “Hitting Blackjack Rule “
This rule applies when a player wishes another card from the dealer. In this situation, the player should just tap slightly on the table, keeping his or her finger behind the cards.
The “Standing Blackjack Rule “
The Standing Blackjack Rule refers to a situation when a player is quite content with the selection of cards and shows it off by waving a hand over the cards, palm down. Also, the player can express the same thing when he or she tucks the cards under the chips in the betting box.
The “Pair Splitting Blackjack Rule“
The Splitting Rule is one of the most popular Blackjack rules. It enables a player to split the two same cards. Splitting also means that a player will continue playing two hand instead of one. Subsequently, a player would be able to draw as many cards as necessary for each hand. Splitting cards also requires making of a new bet. That bet should be equal to the original one. The only exemption here is with splitting aces. In this situation, a player can draw only one card to each ace. The splitting rule is reserved for players only, and it could be the subject to certain restrictions.
The “Doubling Down Blackjack Rule“
This rule refers to doubling the initial bet in return for receiving 1 draw card. However, some casinos allow doubling down for less than the original bet. Others impose some restrictions. Sometimes, the player would be allowed to only double on a total of certain number – a 10 for example. Moreover, the dealer can also exercise this rule after having seen
The “Surrender Blackjack Rule“
Surrender Blackjack Rule is a bit more complex. If upon dealing of the cards, the dealer confirms the absence of a Blackjack, the player can surrender the first two card hand and receive half of the stake back. This rule is enforced up to the moment the player draws a card. When a player surrenders, he or she should simply say: “Surrender”. Alternatively, a player draws an imaginary line across the betting table, left to right.
The “Buying and Twisting Blackjack Rule”
This rule relates to the dealing of the cards. First, the dealer deals the first two cards face down. After this, the player can either buy or twist the following cards. Buying means increasing the bet and having the following card face down. Twisting refers to staying with current bet and receiving the following card face up. Buying and twisting are irreversible. Once you choose either one of those, you cannot change your mind.
Do you have your favorite betting style in Blackjack?