Rules of Blackjack

Blackjack, sometimes known as 21 or Pontoon, is said to be the most widely played casino banking game in the world. Blackjack’s popularity is drawn between its mix of skill and chance, and the possibility of card counting, calculating the odds of receiving high and low cards.

Unlike other casino games, the origin of blackjack is somewhat unknown. However, the game has been traced back to Spain, specifically Castilia, and has been played since the beginning of the 17th century. In its early years in the United States, blackjack wasn’t very popular, so casinos did what they had to do to attract players to the tables.

One incentive casinos offered was a 10-to-1 payout if the players hand contained the ace of spades and a black jack (Jack of clubs or Jack of spades). Similarly, this hand was called a “blackjack” and the name has stuck despite the high payout being abolished. The basic premise of the game is simple; the hand with the highest total without exceeding 21 wins, if a player goes over 21, they bust.

The game is player vs. dealer, so players are trying to beat the dealers hand closest to 21, beat the dealer’s hand and you win. In recent years, blackjack has received Hollywood status due to card counting and the celebrity status associated with it.

The most famous card counting ring ever was the story of six MIT students who named themselves the MIT Blackjack Team and are personally responsible for taking major casinos around the world for millions of dollars over a 20 year span.

But card counting isn’t for everyone; these were extremely bright and gifted math students who used their knowledge for personal gain, so think again if you’re considering ransacking Vegas for millions.