Blackjack is a casino game where players place bets on their hands. The objective is to have a hand that is close to 21 without going over. If the dealer has a hand that is closer to 21 than the player’s hand, the player loses the bet. This rule applies whether or not the dealer busts or becomes over 21.
Basic strategy
Basic blackjack strategy is a series of rules that can help you maximize your winnings and minimize your losses. It is based on statistical probabilities and has been tested through computer simulations. It helps you choose the right moves based on the starting card of the dealer and your own cards. It also helps you determine when to double down, split your initial cards, and more. Although it won’t guarantee you a win, it can increase your chances of winning significantly.
Side bets
In blackjack, players may choose to place side bets on two hands of cards. These bets have different rules. One type is called EZ Bust. It is an optional bet that can only be placed if the dealer has two or three cards, and is worth even money.
Insurance
Blackjack insurance is one way that players can protect their bankroll. The option is available in most blackjack games. Many people prefer to take it, but experienced players warn that it can deplete your bankroll quickly.
House edge
Blackjack’s house edge isn’t set in stone, but you can cut it in half. A basic strategy can reduce the house edge to around 0.5% or 1%, or as little as $100 to $200 per hour. Even a 2% house edge is still a pretty large loss, so it’s important to limit your spending to avoid exceeding it.
Rules for splitting
There are certain rules that players should follow when splitting their hands. These include the fact that a player should only split a pair if he has a pair of cards, not a pair of aces. He should also use verbal signals instead of hand signals to signal the decision. In addition, he should never touch the cards on the table when making the decision.
Bonus payouts
There are two types of blackjack bonus payouts available: traditional and no-wager bonuses. The former is the easiest to convert into cash, since players do not have to wager any money to withdraw their winnings. However, the wagering requirements for no-wager bonuses are much lower than those for traditional bonuses. In some cases, the bonuses may only come in the form of free play or a few free coins, which makes it even easier to gamble away any winnings.