Also called “21,” Blackjack has become the most popular casino table game--largely due to the fact that it’s a contest between you and the dealer.

OBJECT OF THE GAME: The object of “21” is to beat the dealer by drawing cards that add up to 21, or as close to 21 as possible without exceeding that number. Face cards count as 10 and the Ace counts as 1 or 11, whichever you choose. All other cards count as their face value.

HOW TO PLAY: The game starts when two cards are dealt to each player. The dealer also deals him or herself two cards; one face up and one face down. After looking at your hand you have the option to “stand” (draw no more cards) or signal the dealer to “hit you” (deal you one or more cards until you feel that the total count of your hand is closer to 21 than the cards the dealer has drawn.) Hand signals are to be used to tell the dealer you want to “stand” or be “hit.” Keeping your hand palm down in the air indicates a “stand.” Motioning your hand palm down towards you indicates a “hit.” If you are dealt an ace and a 10-value card in your first two cards, you get “Blackjack” and win. If you draw cards exceeding 21, you go “bust” and lose, even if the dealer also goes “bust.” If your count is closer to 21 than the dealer’s count, you win. If your count is the same as the dealer’s, it’s called a tie or “push,” where neither wins. You may draw as many cards as you like, but the dealer is required to draw cards when the total is 16 or less, and must stand on a hard 17 or better.
INSURANCE: This is a protection bet for the player and pays 2 to 1. When a dealer has an Ace showing, the player has the option to take insurance by placing up to half of their bet on the Insurance Line. If a dealer has a Blackjack, you win the insurance bet and lose it if he doesn’t.

DOUBLING DOWN: If your first two cards total a combination that you feel will only take a single-card draw to beat the dealer, you may double your bet. Remember that you will only receive one additional card. You may double down after splitting.

SPLITTING: If your first two cards are a pair, you can play two hands by atching the amount of your original bet on each hand. You may draw as many cards as you like for each hand. Aces may be split up to four times. However, if you’re splitting Aces, you will only receive one additional card for each hand

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