With the exception of poker, online blackjack is probably the most popular card game being played around the world today. The game has been around for hundreds of years and continues to grow in popularity. Although there is no official information on the game’s creation, most researchers agree the game was most likely introduced in France in the early 1700’s. Back then the game was originally named Vingt-et-un which is in French translates to twenty-one. Blackjack is believed to be derived from another popular game called Chemin de Fer. Today it’s no secret people around the world love playing blackjack. The game has evolved over the years to include numerous variations and adaptation of the game in search of new and exciting ways to play the game.
However, if you’re looking to get started with playing blackjack online it can get a little confusing with so many variations and different ways to play. Therefore, we’ve compiled a short on how to get started playing blackjack online.
How to play
Before we get into too much detail, we it’s best to start from the beginning. If you’re new to the game the objective is quite simple. Try and beat the dealer by getting as close to 21 without going over. This is obviously a simplistic explanation of the game however it’s enough to give you the general idea. Depending on the version of blackjack you might play there may also be other people at the table with you. Most versions have you playing against the dealer and not the other players at the table.
So many ways to play
As the game of blackjack has evolved over the years there have been new versions and variations of the game. Some use minor differences in how they play while others have unique rules that only apply to those specific versions. Here are some of the more popular versions of blackjack being played today.
Original Blackjack
Also known as the most commonly played version of the game. Here the objective is to get as close to 21 without going over. In this version you play against the dealer regardless if you’re playing alone or with multiple other players.
European Blackjack
This version of blackjack is based on the classic version with a few noticeable differences. For starters the game is played with 2 decks as opposed to one deck in the classic version. Another difference is the dealer will stay on 17 whereas in classic blackjack the dealer can hit on 17.
Pontoon
This version of blackjack is mostly based on the classic version of the game with some variations. For starters the dealer will have both cards showing face down. This can make it harder to guess what the dealer might have. Pontoon has a higher payout that classic blackjack. The player will only be able to stay if he has a total of 15 or more. Finally, the overall payout is higher on pontoon vs. classic blackjack.
Live Dealer Blackjack
As the name implies live dealer blackjack has you playing against a real person and not against the computer. The live dealer games have you playing with real people and live dealers from around the world. This version gives the impression that you are playing at a land-based casino.
How to get started
There is no shortage of sites available today where you can enjoy different variations of blackjack. Some sites may focus solely on Blackjack while other sites may offer some variations of blackjack on top of the other games they offer. Before you get started it’s important to check which games each site offers. Finding out you signed up to a site that doesn’t offer the version you want to play can be a real disappointment.
If you want a little more in-depth information on the site, we suggest taking a few mins to research the site online. Once you’ve reviewed the site and made sure they offer the games you want to play you need to open an account. Finally, you can make a deposit using your preferred method and start playing.
Tips for Beginners
Before you dive deep and start playing like a pro, we recommend starting small. In fact, if you’re new to the game we suggest you try and find a free version of the game to practice on. Many online casinos and blackjack sites have for fun or free version of their main games. Stick with the classic version of the game if you’re still figuring things out. This allows you to get familiar with the interface and get more familiar with the rules. Besides all other versions of the game are based on the classic version so it makes sense to get familiar with the original.
Once you’re ready to go we suggest you start by placing small bets. This will allow you to get a feel for the game and gain a little more practice. Once you feel like you’re confident enough you can then move on to placing larger bets and trying out all the different versions as well.
Lastly always remember, above all else remember to play responsibly and don’t forget to have fun.
Blackjack FAQ
[ultimate-faqs include_category=’blackjack-real-money’ ]