It’s hard to beat a classic card game even with the range of interesting new online games nowadays.

With easier access, blackjack continues to spark excitement in millions of gamers across the world. I mean, haven’t you noticed the blackjack sites popping just about everywhere?

I’m sure you don’t want to miss out on the action! This article will show you everything you need to know to play online blackjack.

How to Play Blackjack Online?

Online blackjack, as compared to a physical casino game, is more flexible. It has a lot of game variations to choose from.

You also have the freedom to decide the gaming portal you are comfortable with.

If you just feel like practicing your hand on the game or want to give card counting a shot, without risking some bucks, online blackjack has got you covered on that too!

App Vs. Web Browser

You have two choices on which online environment you are comfortable playing a game of blackjack in.

The first option is you can play free games through apps, which will require a download. There are a lot of good ones compatible with both iOs and Android.

The second option is to use mobile casinos in your web browser via mobile gadgets or through a desktop computer.

Free Blackjack VS Real Money Blackjack

In the online games arena, you can either play blackjack for free or with real money. Most apps and blackjack game sites already offer demo modes if you’re not ready to commit to real money games just yet.

Free Online Blackjack

PROS:

• Let’s you play an unlimited number of new games for fun
• Helpful for learning different blackjack variants
• No risk of losing money
• Perfect for trying out a new blackjack strategy
• You can play instantly with no deposit, submission of information or download required

CONS:

• Not all blackjack variants are free
• Little access to casino bonuses and promotions available to blackjack players

Real Money Blackjack Games

PROS:

• You start to win real money
• Blackjack bonuses give you a head start when you make a deposit
• You have access to all blackjack variants, including games with a live dealer
• Potential for both winnings and losses adds thrill
• Win and lose as a team when playing with friends
• Your card counting strategies are put to the true test

CONS:

• You risk losing money when making bets
• You will require some time to sign up, create a password, and make a deposit before you can start new games

What Happens in a Live Dealer Blackjack Game?

Another way to play is through a live video stream of blackjack. If you enjoy the excitement and thrill of a brick and mortar casino card game, yet want to stay home, this would be a perfect choice!

The main difference with this variant compared to the app and browser games is you get to see a real-life dealer shuffle and deal the cards on a blackjack table.

People can also interact with the dealer and other players through a chatbox. Records of scores are easily posted on a leaderboard for transparency.

You can access these live dealer games on the website of online casinos via mobile device or desktop for as long as you have a stable internet connection.

Online Blackjack Game Rules

Playing blackjack online is pretty simple. It follows similar blackjack rules as if you were playing at a land-based casino. So if you’ve been an avid player, shifting to online blackjack games comes easy peasy!

The typical rules at online blackjack games, including live dealer casino games, are:

1. 8 decks used
2. Dealer stands on Soft 17
3. Surrender option is not available
4. Players may double on any two cards
5. Players may double after a Split
6. Re-splitting is not allowed
7. Dealer does not peek for blackjack*

*Under this rule, you should only wager more on the table against a dealer’s potential blackjack when you split two aces against a dealer’s 10 up card. This decreases your chances of losing the game.

Under these certain rules, the house edge is kept at 0.61%.

Overview of Playing Online Blackjack Games

1. Games are dealt with a shoe made up of multiple decks. Before the game starts, you’ll need to make a single bet.
2. Each player receives two cards. Most variants face cards up when dealt. The dealer will receive 2 cards where one is face up and the other face down.
3. Remember, the game objective is to make a hand closer to 21 than the dealer, without going over that number. Before making the next step, you and the dealer check if you have a blackjack. If you do, your bet wins 3:2 odds. If you both do, the dealer offers you insurance, or your bet will push.
4. If neither of you has a blackjack, you start playing your hand. You decide your moves, whether to hit or stand, double or split if allowed. A strategy chart will come in handy.
5. After all remaining players have finished their hands by standing, the dealer will reveal their hole card. If he gets a bust (goes over 21), all player bets win. Otherwise, your hands will be compared to the dealer’s to see who’s the big winner of lotsa cash!

What are the Top Blackjack Variants?

The goal of the games remains the same. But many variants often have different terms. Here are 5 popular choices:

Atlantic City Blackjack

This is one of the most popular blackjack variants for both experts and beginners alike.

It favors the side of the player, with a house edge of 0.36%. The game uses 8 decks, a chance to surrender, and the dealer has to stand on all hand totals of 17-21.

European Blackjack

This also remains popular not just in Europe, but in online casino sites worldwide.

It has a slightly higher house edge of 0.62%. Players get to double after a split. However, if the dealer has blackjack, you will lose your total bet in this variant.

Perfect Blackjack

This game variant allows players to place a pair side bet to increase winnings. These can be placed on either the player or dealer’s hand. It covers combination pairs: mixed pair, color pair, and perfect pair.

Blackjack Surrender

The surrender rule allows any one of the players to fold their hand, which results in the player’s collection of half their bet back. This could benefit you if you have a very bad starting hand. This reduces the house advantage by 0.07-0.09%.

Blackjack Switch

These are more recent variant games. Everyone receives two hands at the start of the game.

Players have the option to switch the best two cards between them. In addition to the significant difference of this variant, is that a dealer’s hard 22 is considered a tie.

Factors to Consider in Choosing Online Blackjack Games

With so many options out there, it’s hard to tell which games are worth betting your cards on. Here are 4 factors you should consider:

Security and Trustworthiness

Since gambling involves payouts of money, it is understood to be a hot source for fraud. We want to make sure players feel safe while playing.

Ensure the site or app you are on abides by the general data protection regulation of the United States, or whatever country the casino site belongs.

Only play on online casino operators that are regulated and licensed. To know if they play fair, it’s best to check out reviews and do research.

Selection

It is of great value to find a variety of blackjack games to choose from in a site. Also, consider the games coming from prominent software providers for the best game experience.

Deposit Bonus

Not all casinos offer bonuses. Anyone will definitely have this casino his favorite if they offer promotions tailored to their preferences, like an initial deposit bonus giving your games a head start.

Availability of Live Blackjack Games

This is perhaps one of the best options to get a better feel of the game since you get to see dealers actually use a physical deck of cards. It keeps the excitement of being amidst a live game but in the comforts of your home.

Blackjack Tips

1. Always play your blackjack games in quality and reliable online casinos.
2. The game remains to be majorly a game of chance. So manage your bets. Stick to your bankroll. You don’t want to leave with an empty pocket and a gambling problem!
3. If you’re a beginner and still getting an idea of the game, start playing the free blackjack games first to avoid future mistakes.
4. Play with bonuses. This increases your chances of receiving a more profitable payout.

Conclusion

To play blackjack is already a fun and invigorating activity with all the strategies you could possibly apply. Having it available online only makes it much worthwhile as we get the opportunity to hone skills better!

If you’re new to the game, take our suggestion and play initially for free before committing on any risks. When you’re up for an upgrade and wish to earn real money, you’ll play with no regrets!

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