Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games. It’s also one of the oldest – going as far back to the 1700’s. Today, you can play many different variations of this classic table game online – both with and without a live dealer.
In this guide, we’ll go through everything you need to know before start playing Blackjack. We’ll also explain all the different terms that you’re going to encounter playing the game and as usual, our tips and tricks to make you a better Blackjack player.
Types of Blackjack Games
Blackjack comes in many variations, each with its own unique set of rules and strategies. Some of the most popular types of blackjack games include:
- Classic Blackjack: The traditional game where the dealer and player each receive two cards, with the goal of getting as close to 21 as possible without going over.
- European Blackjack: Similar to Classic Blackjack but with different rules for the dealer and player, such as the dealer only receiving one card face-up initially.
- Atlantic City Blackjack: Features eight decks of cards and allows players to split and double down in various situations.
- Spanish 21: Uses a deck with no 10s, offering different payout structures and bonus payouts.
- Blackjack Switch: Players are dealt two hands and can switch the top cards between hands to improve their chances.
- Pontoon: A British version of blackjack with slightly different terminology and rules.
American Blackjack vs European Blackjack
American and European Blackjack are two of the most popular variants, each with distinct differences. In American Blackjack, the dealer receives two cards, one face-up and one face-down (the hole card), whereas, in European Blackjack, the dealer initially gets only one face-up card and receives the second card after the players have completed their hands.
Doubling down also varies between the two versions. In American Blackjack, players have the flexibility to double down on any two cards, providing more opportunities for strategic betting. On the other hand, European Blackjack typically restricts doubling down to hands with a total of 9, 10, or 11, limiting the scenarios where this option can be used.
Another notable difference is the surrender option. American Blackjack often allows players to surrender, meaning they can forfeit half their bet if they dislike their initial hand. This option is seldom available in European Blackjack, making it less forgiving for players who find themselves with unfavorable hands.
Top-Rated Canadian Online Casinos with Blackjack
Canada boasts numerous top-rated online casinos that offer a variety of blackjack games. Some of the best Canadian online casinos for blackjack include:
- Casumo Casino: All new players signing up at Casumo Casino will get a 100% up to C$1,800 bonus. Has an extensive Live Casino category.
- Dunder Casino: Up to C$600 and 200 free spins on your first deposit. Offers a wide range of Live Dealer and Blackjack games.
- LuckyDays Casino: Has a plethora of various Blackjack games and offers a casino bonus worth up to C$1,000 + 100 free spins on the first deposit.
- 888 Casino: A reputable casino with live dealer blackjack and numerous variations of the game. New players receive a bonus of up to C$1,500 on the first deposit.
These casinos are all known for their reliability, security, excellent customer service, and fast payouts – making them ideal choices for Canadian players looking for someplace new to play Blackjack.
Free Blackjack
Free blackjack games are an excellent way for beginners to learn the rules and practice their strategies without risking real money. Most online casinos offer free versions of their blackjack games, allowing players to play with virtual chips. Keep in mind however that there are no demo versions of live casino and live dealer games – only classic table games can be played in demo mode.
Blackjack Strategy
Developing a solid blackjack strategy is crucial for maximizing your chances of winning. Some key strategies include:
- Basic Strategy: A set of guidelines that tell you the best action to take based on your hand and the dealer’s upcard. Basic strategy charts are available online and can significantly reduce the house edge.
- Card Counting: A more advanced technique that involves keeping track of the cards that have been dealt, to determine the likelihood of certain cards being dealt next. This strategy is more applicable in land-based casinos than online due to the use of random number generators (RNGs).
- Betting Strategies: Some players use betting systems like the Martingale or Paroli to manage their bankroll and betting patterns.
Blackjack Rules
The basic rules of blackjack are simple:
- Objective: Beat the dealer by having a hand total closer to 21 without going over.
- Card Values: Number cards are worth their face value, face cards are worth 10, and Aces can be worth 1 or 11 (you choose which).
- Gameplay: Players are dealt two cards and can choose to “hit” (take another card) or “stand” (keep their current hand). The dealer must hit until they have at least 17.
- Winning: If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, or if the dealer busts (goes over 21), you win. A blackjack (Ace and a 10-value card) usually pays 3 to 2.
Blackjack Terms You Need to Know
Understanding the most common blackjack terms is essential for effective play:
- Hit: Take another card.
- Stand: Keep your current hand.
- Double Down: Double your bet and receive one more card.
- Split: If you have two cards of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands.
- Bust: Exceed a hand total of 21.
- Push: Tie with the dealer, resulting in no win or loss.
- Surrender: Forfeit half your bet and end your hand early (if the option is available).
Best Way to Start Playing Blackjack
The best way to start playing blackjack is to:
- Learn the Basic Rules: Familiarize yourself with the game’s rules and objectives.
- Practice with Free Games: Use free online blackjack games to practice without risking money.
- Study Basic Strategy: Learn and memorize basic strategy charts to improve your decision-making.
- Start Small: When you begin playing for real money, start with small bets to minimize risk.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your gaming sessions and stick to it to avoid significant losses. Use one of many betting strategies to make your bankroll last longer.
The Future of Blackjack
The future of blackjack looks promising, with technological advancements enhancing the player experience. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are likely to revolutionize online blackjack, offering immersive experiences that mimic land-based casinos.
Additionally, live dealer games are becoming more popular, providing a real-time, interactive experience that combines the convenience of online play with the authenticity of a physical casino. This will most probably continue to become more and more popular – until the next big thing – whether it’s AR or VR, or maybe even something completely new. Time will tell.
Casinojungle.ca Tips & Tricks for Blackjack Players
Here are some expert tips from the Casinojungle.ca team to improve your blackjack game:
- Stick to Basic Strategy: Always follow a basic strategy to minimize the house edge.
- Avoid Insurance Bets: Insurance bets are generally not advisable as they increase the house’s edge.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set limits for yourself and don’t chase losses.
- Take Breaks: Avoid long, continuous sessions to stay focused and make better decisions.
- Pick the Right Casino: Play at reputable online casinos with favorable bonus terms and conditions.
Summary
Blackjack is a game that has been popular for as long as gambling has existed and it doesn’t look like that’s going to change any time soon. If you’re a new player seeking to try the game out, it’s important to remember that you can play the game as a demo version.
When you’ve figured the game out and decided which betting strategy you’re going with, pick one of the many Live Dealer Blackjack variants and test your newly found skills out. Happy Blackjack’ing and good luck!