Blackjack Rules - Complete Guide
Quick Answer
What is Blackjack? Blackjack (also known as 21) is a comparing card game between players and a dealer, where each player competes to have a hand value closer to 21 than the dealers without exceeding 21.
How long does a game take? 5-15 minutes per shoe, with individual hands lasting 30-60 seconds.
What is the difficulty level? Beginner-friendly to learn, with deep strategic complexity through basic strategy and card counting.
How many players? 1-7 players at a table, each playing independently against the dealer.
What do you need to play? One to eight standard 52-card decks (casinos typically use 6-8 decks).
What is the main objective? Beat the dealer by getting a hand value closer to 21 without going over (busting).
How do you win? Your hand totals higher than the dealers without busting, or the dealer busts while you remain under 21. A natural Blackjack (Ace + 10-value card) pays 3:2.