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What is Live Blackjack?
In short, live blackjack is the ultimate online blackjack format. Unlike most online casino blackjack games, which utilize a random number generator, live dealer blackjack is played against a real-life person. With a combination of live streaming video and chat functions, live blackjack provides the most interactive option for playing this popular card game online.
How to Play Blackjack Online – The Basics
Once you know the basics of how to play blackjack online, keeping up with the game becomes very easy. Here are the basic steps:
- Step 1: Every player makes their bet, which is the amount of money you would like to wager on your hand.
- Step 2: The live dealer deals two cards to each player and to themselves—one card face up and the other face down. The face-down card can only be viewed by you.
- Step 3: The goal is to create a hand as close to 21 as possible without going over. If your total exceeds 21, it is called a “bust.”
- Step 4: All cards are valued at their face value. Picture cards are worth 10, and an ace can count as either 1 or 10, depending on which is more beneficial for your hand. For example, a hand consisting of 2 hearts and a jack of spades totals 12.
- Step 5: After the initial deal, players can decide to stand, hit, fold, double, or split.
- Step 6: The dealer must hit if their total is 16 or less and must stand if their total is between 17 and 21.
- Step 7: Players win if they have a total of 21 or less and the dealer busts or if their hand has a higher sum than the dealer without exceeding 21. Players compete against the dealer, not each other.
Common Phrases Used in the Game
Here are several essential terms you’ll need to know while playing online blackjack:
- Hit: Requesting another card. If your new total exceeds 21, you bust, losing the game.
- Stand: Keeping your hand as is, without additional cards. Deciding when to stand is crucial.
- Double: After viewing your hand, you can choose to double down, wagering an additional bet equal to your original. You may then draw only one more card.
- Insurance: If the dealer’s face-up card is an ace, you can place a side bet of up to half your original bet. If the dealer has blackjack, the side bet pays 2:1.
How is Online Blackjack Different from Regular Blackjack?
While playing blackjack online is similar to traditional blackjack, there are some differences:
- In standard online blackjack, the game outcome is determined by a random number generator. In live blackjack, an online dealer manages the game, creating a more authentic casino experience.
- Card counting is nearly impossible in online blackjack since hands are randomized. Although counting is possible in live games, it is frowned upon and typically against the rules.
- Online blackjack offers fewer distractions than a traditional casino, allowing players to focus on the game.
- Table limits are often lower at online casinos, accommodating all budgets.
Overview of Card Counting
Card counting involves calculating the risk of a hand based on cards that have been dealt. While it can give a slight advantage (typically around 0.5%), this strategy is often frowned upon in casinos, making the risks hard to justify.
Now that you know the fundamentals of online blackjack, it’s time to earn that blackjack bonus! Have fun and best of luck!