Even if you have never engaged in any proper gambling in your whole entire life, we would still be willing to bet that most people have experience of playing Blackjack. It is such an incredibly popular card game that it definitely isn’t solely restricted to the realm of casino gambling. In fact, the game of Blackjack is often used in schools to teach kids rudimentary mathematical principles, and you will also be able to find it being played in a huge variety of locations, from care homes to community centres, long train commutes to wholesome family get-togethers. Of course, Blackjack is ultimately a game made for betting, but it is nice to know that it can be played in a variety of different settings.
Blackjack is also one of the oldest gambling games still around today, with its origins being able to be traced back to at least the 16th Century where the Spanish writer Miguel De Cervantes mentioned it in a story. There is, therefore, no wonder that it is so wildly played by so many people – it has been around for more than half a century! Another reason behind Blackjack’s wild global popularity is the fact that its odds are often the best that can be found amongst the casino table games, meaning that there is generally more money to be made. However, this is only true if you know what you are doing whilst playing Blackjack, something that is actually easier said than done. There are all manner of complexities to this seemingly simple game, and it definitely pays to learn to win at Blackjack. Read ahead for a few essential tips for Blackjack, and an overview of the game itself.
History Of Blackjack
So, as we have already mentioned, Blackjack is actually an incredibly old game, with its origins being traced right back to the 15th Century at least. Miguel De Cervantes, writer of Don Quixote (widely recognised as the first novel in history), mentioned “Venti-Una” in a text from 1570, concrete proof that that game of “21” existed back then. In fact, many historians will tell you that a priest even mentioned the game back in 1440. Even before this there are multiple examples of a gambling game that resembled Blackjack being played. One thing is certain here: Blackjack is old, very old indeed.
It didn’t take long for Blackjack to sweep across Europe after the 17th Century, especially due to the proliferation of genuine casino halls that began with the Casino Di Venezia in, you guessed it, Venice. One of the main reasons behind the rapid spread of popularity for Blackjack was the fact that it was one of the few gambling games in which the player could really feel in control. Luck plays a huge factor during Blackjack, of course, but so to does the decisions made by the player.
A Brief Overview Of Blackjack
So, before we get into some top tips and tricks when playing Blackjack, it pays to have a general rundown of the game itself. Remember how the early version of Blackjack was called “Venti-Una” (21)? Well, that is because the overall aim of the game is to get as close to the number 21 with your card combination, taking special care not to exceed this number. Going over 21 is called a “bust”, and this means you immediately lose – not something you want, right?
Blackjack is almost always played against the dealer, meaning that it is a great game for players that prefer to gamble alone. The objective really is simple: reach 21 with your cards before you dealer does, and DON’T go over it.
Some Essential Blackjack Vocabulary
As with the vast majority of casino table games, Blackjack has its own very distinct vocabulary, something that you will really have to learn if you want to play this game in a casino. In fact, in a lot of casinos you can only play Blackjack if you know both the vocabulary and the hand signals – the dealers rarely even talk!
Read ahead for a brief rundown of some of the most important bits of lingo to get to grips with:
· Action: This is a word usually used to refer to the total bet on the table at any one point.
· Bust: You will be incredibly happy to see this word in relation to the dealer, but no so happy to see it in relation to yourself. A bust is one somebody’s hand exceeds 21, and means you lose.
· Double: This is a playing decision you can make that means your bet value is doubled. After using this the dealer must give out exactly one more card.
· Split: If the player’s first two dealt cards are of the same value they can choose to split this into two separate hands with two separate wagers. A good tactical decision in certain instances.
Things To Look Out For During Blackjack
So, we’ve given a small round up of some essential vocabulary to know whilst playing Blackack, but what about some of the crucial things to look out for whilst playing? Keep reading for a rundown:
· Find The Right Table: Just like with online slots, different Blackjack tables will have differing pay-outs and odds. You will want to find a table with the most liberal rules, as this will help you gain more wins. Make sure, for example, that a Blackjack pays 3-2, and that you can double down on any two cards.
· Avoid The Insurance Wager: The insurance bet can sound tempting can’t it? But in actuality it only serves to worsen your chances of walking away with heavier pockets. We recommend you stay away from this tactic.
· Don’t Drink Too Much: Okay, this one might sound obvious, but you really aren’t doing yourself any favours if you sit down to a game of Blackjack whilst heavily intoxicated. In fact, this is a sure-fire method of losing most of your funds – make sure you don’t get carried away!
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