Blackjack is one of the most popular card games played in casinos around the world. Also known as 21, the game is fast-paced, easy to learn, and offers players a combination of luck and strategy.

The main goal in Blackjack is to have a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer’s, without going over. Cards 2 through 10 are worth their face value, face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are worth 10, and Aces can count as either 1 or 11.

Each player is dealt two cards and can choose to:

• Hit (take another card),

• Stand (keep current hand),

• Double down (double the bet for one extra card),

• Split (if holding two of the same card),

• or sometimes Surrender (give up half the bet and end the hand).

The dealer plays by strict rules—usually hitting until reaching 17 or more. A natural Blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card) is the best possible hand and usually pays 3:2.

While Blackjack involves chance, players can improve their odds through strategy, such as using a basic strategy chart or even card counting in physical games. There are many game variations and online versions, but the core rules remain the same.

Because of its low house edge and strategic depth, Blackjack remains a favorite for casual and serious gamblers alike.