Blackjack is a game based on both luck and skill. The idea is to beat the dealer by producing a hand that is higher in value than his without going over 21. Having said that, a Blackjack (Ace card and a 10 card or picture card) is the ideal winning outcome as it will guarantee a win and will usually increase your prize.
The dealer will firstly deal you two cards, both face up. He will also deal himself two cards, one face up and one face down. While your hand does not equal 21 and is not over 21, the dealer will continue to ask you if you would like another card. You 'hit' for another card or 'stand' if you do not want any more cards. Remember that you want to get as close as possible to 21 without going bust. Once you choose to stand, the dealer will reveal his hidden card then will either stand once he reaches a certain value or until he busts. If you have not gone bust beforehand and your card values are greater than that of the dealer, you will win the bet. Otherwise the dealer will win and you will forefeit the game.
If the first two cards served to you are the same, you will be given the opportunity to 'split' them. If you split your cards, each card will become a seperate and independant hand. Your bet will double and your winning/losing potential will also double.
After you are dealt your first two Blackjack cards, you may choose to double your bet. In this situation you can only be dealt one more card.
If the dealer has a visible Ace card and you are concerned that he might have a Blackjack, you can take out insurance to cover this possibility.
Lastly, just remember that an Ace card can be equal to 1 or 11 and that all picture cards are equal to 10.
