The aim is to get as close to 21 as you can without going over (bust) using the values on the cards. If you beat the dealer's total, or if they go bust - you win! 

All number cards hold face value, picture cards are worth 10, and the A is worth one or 11. 

The dealer will keep drawing cards until they reach 17 or above. 

There's your brief lowdown - but what about when it comes to online Blackjack? For the most important steps to learn, check our handy list below that will help inform your playing style and prevent avoidable mistakes.

  • Pick A Seat And Buy Chips

Go to your Live Casino lobby and find a seat - you may need to hunt around.

  • Place A Wager 

The money will be debited from your account balance. Make sure it is for the right amount.

  • Dealer Deals Cards

The dealer will deal the player closest to the deck of cards first - this is where you find your starting hand. 

  • Players Play Their Hands

You have the choice to hit or stay - unless you've hit Blackjack, of course, in which case you are already in profit town. 

  • Dealer Plays Hand

Once all the action is complete around the table, the dealer takes centre stage. Remember, they have to hit 17 or above to qualify. 

  • Payouts

The drama is over - you know if you have won or lost. The next round starts again!

Blackjack Glossary

Don't know all the phrases? Don't worry! We have put together a list of popular Blackjack terminology and their definitions to prevent you from becoming completely confused when you begin playing. 

Let's get to it!

  • Hit: This is what you say to request another card from the dealer. 
  • Stand: No more action please! You're backing your cards to make it. 
  • Bust: The dreaded word. If you hear this, you have lost. 
  • Double Down: Do you REALLY back your cards? If so, you can double down to double your bet and get one more card. Once you have made your choice, that's it! You will get no more cards to increase your chances of winning. 
  • Split: Get two of the same cards? Double your bet, and you can split them to create two Blackjack hands.
  • Push: Your final total is the same as the dealer's, meaning you get your bet money back.
  • Side Bets: If you want to add to the excitement, some Blackjack tables allow side bets. 21+3 is one such option - if you make a nominal poker hand from your two cards and the dealer's one card, you will receive a payout. 
  • Insurance: If the dealer gets an Ace as their face-up card, they will offer you insurance. If you take the bet, and they make Blackjack, you will be get paid out at odds of 2:1. 

Playing Real Money Blackjack vs Free Blackjack

If you're new to the game and want to hone your skills, you're in luck! Most online casinos offer you the chance to play for free before you experience the real thing. Alternatively, there are plenty of other platforms from which to play free Blackjack. 

Best Tips On How to Win Blackjack

Let's get it straight - the house always has an edge! Never treat Online Blackjack as anything other than light entertainment, set loss limits, and session reminders to stay in total control. 

However, there are ways that you can ensure you've given yourself the best chances of winning.

  • Check For Strategy Guides

Bright minds have combined over generations to create rules for specific scenarios at a Blackjack table. You can find most of them online, with a simple internet search. 

  • Budget

Plan for how much you are willing to lose and stick to it. Do not chase your losses. 

  • Don't Take Insurance

It's tempting to cover your losses - particularly if you get a terrible starting hand, and the dealer draws an ace. However, the maths behind playing insurance are anything but favourable in the long term. 

  • Don't Split 10's

Our biggest tip! Alluring as it is - you can turn a very strong hand into two weak hands by splitting those 10s. It isn't worth the hassle!