So if the dealer gets 17, 18, 19, or 20, you know they have to stand on those two cards. It’s worth noting that in basically every casino, the dealer has to stand on 17 or above (it’s literally a rule, they can’t deal themselves another card in this scenario). The croupier will also deal him or herself two cards, but only one of these will be face up. Instead, we’re just going to cover the basic blackjack rules and the mechanics of play.Īt the beginning of the hand, the croupier will deal you two cards face up. This isn’t a guide to counting cards, though if you want to learn more about that, you can check out this post on counting cards online. (Check out our Sky Casino blackjack review for more online blackjack coverage.) You can play blackjack online or in the casino, and our strategy card can be used for either. (And again, don’t forget to check out our free blackjack cheat sheet if you just want to cut right to the chase.) How to play blackjack There’s a bit more nuance to playing blackjack, as you might have guessed, so we’ll cover it as simply as possible below. If you get a lower score than the dealer does, you will lose. If you go over 21, you will automatically bust. The aim is to get as close to 21 as possible without going over. Blackjack, also known as 21, is a game played against the dealer (rather than other players).

Blackjack hit cards face up or down