Blackjack is one of the most popular online casino games due to its straightforward rules and relatively low house edge.

However, before you take a virtual seat at the table, it’s essential to understand the basics and key differences between live and online Blackjack. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to play Blackjack online.

Understand the basic rules of Blackjack

Before playing, it’s crucial to understand how the game works. The goal in Blackjack is simple – get as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it (also known as going bust), while having a hand total higher than the dealer’s.

To do this, you need to know the value of each card in the deck:

• Number cards (two to 10) are worth their face value.
• Face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are worth 10 points each.
• Aces can be worth either one or 11, depending on what benefits your hand the most.

Here’s how a typical round works:

1. Place your bet: Once you’ve chosen your stake, the dealer will deal two cards to you and two cards to themselves (one face-up and one face-down).
2. Decide your action: Based on the cards in your hand and the dealer’s visible card, you can:

• Hit: Take another card.
• Stand: Keep your current hand.
• Double down: Double your bet and receive one more card.
• Split: If you have a pair, you can split your cards into two hands (with an additional bet).

3. Dealer plays: The dealer will then play their hand according to specific rules. They must hit until they have at least 17.
4. Determine the winner: If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, or if the dealer goes bust, you win. Payouts are typically 1:1, but if you get Blackjack (an Ace plus a 10-point card), you receive a 3:2 payout.

Types of online Blackjack

Online casinos typically offer several variants of Blackjack, each with slightly different rules. Some common variations include:

• Classic Blackjack: This is the standard game with a single deck or multiple decks, where the rules remain closest to traditional casino play.
• European Blackjack: Similar to classic Blackjack, but with some differences, such as the dealer only receiving their second card after players finish their hands.
• Progressive Blackjack: A variation where you can place a side bet for a chance to win a progressive jackpot.
• Live dealer Blackjack: Real-time Blackjack, in which a live dealer deals cards from a physical deck, streamed to your screen.

Each variant might have minor rule differences, so it’s worth reading the specific table rules before starting a game.

Live dealer vs. RNG Blackjack

When playing online Blackjack, you can choose between live dealer games or standard online games that use a Random Number Generator (RNG) to deal the cards.

• RNG Blackjack: Computer algorithms determine the outcome in this version. The gameplay is faster because the cards are dealt instantly, and there’s no waiting for other players. It’s a good option if you prefer a solo, fast-paced game.
• Live dealer Blackjack: This version simulates the experience of being in a real casino. A live dealer deals physical cards, and you can interact in real-time with them via a chat box. The pace is slower to RNG Blackjack but closer to faster-paced in-person Blackjack.

Both versions’ rules remain the same, but live dealer games provide gameplay that closer replicates land-based gameplay. Live Blackjack might have higher betting limits than RNG versions, so it is always worth checking before taking a virtual seat.