This is an educational guide to how casino games work. House edge and payout figures are typical values and vary by game, rules and operator. No casino game can be beaten in the long run — play for entertainment, never as a way to make money, and only stake what you can afford to lose.
How to Play Blackjack
Blackjack is the classic casino card game — simple to learn, and one of the best-value games on the floor when you play it well. Here’s how it works.
The aim
You’re playing against the dealer, not other players. The goal is to get a hand closer to 21 than the dealer, without going over — going over is “busting”, and you lose instantly.
Card values and play
Number cards are face value, picture cards are 10, and an Ace is 1 or 11 (whichever helps). You’re dealt two cards, then choose to “hit” (take another card) or “stand” (keep your total). The dealer then plays to fixed rules, usually standing on 17.
Payouts and the edge
A “blackjack” — an Ace plus a 10-value card — normally pays 3:2; steer clear of tables paying 6:5, which quietly worsen your odds. With good rules and correct play, blackjack’s house edge is around 0.5%, among the lowest anywhere. See blackjack basic strategy, blackjack vs baccarat and casino games with the best odds.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the aim of blackjack?
To beat the dealer by getting closer to 21 than they do, without going over (“busting”).
What does blackjack pay?
A natural blackjack normally pays 3:2 — avoid 6:5 tables, which pay less and raise the house edge.
What’s the house edge?
Around 0.5% with basic strategy and good rules, among the best in the casino.
Related guides: blackjack basic strategy, blackjack vs baccarat and casino games with the best odds.