An Introduction to Blackjack

It’s time to talk table games! In this blog series, we’re discussing some of the best table games in Philadelphia like roulette, craps, poker based table games, blackjack and more!

In today’s Philadelphia table games blog, we’re going to be talking about a casino classic - blackjack! Blackjack is one of the most popular casino table games for a reason. It combines the thrill of the game with the fun of strategy.

The goal of blackjack is simple: get your hand closer to 21 than the dealer without going over. Cards are counted at their face value, and all face cards are counted as 10. Statistically, there are more 10-value cards than anything else, which is important to remember when considering your next move. Aces can count either as a 1 or 11. You can signal that you’re satisfied with your hand by waving your palm down in front. If you want another card, you can tap or scratch the felt on the table. Players are allowed to keep a strategy card at this table game. This gives players the ability to see what the correct move would be for each hand.

One of the most exciting elements of blackjack is the double down. Doubling down allows a player to double their wager, but then they only get one additional card. The best time to double down when playing blackjack is when your cards total 11. Since there are more face cards (valued at 10) in the deck, you’re more likely to have a total that’s either 21 or close to 21. Another good time to double down is when you have a hand that totals to be 9 or 10.

Another exciting part of the game of blackjack is the ability to split a pair of cards. This can be done when the first two cards the player receives are of the same value. When this occurs, players have the option to split the cards to form two separate hands. The wager on each hand must be equal to the original wager. Hint: “the book” (what blackjack players call the statistically ideal play) says to always split aces and 8’s and never split 10’s. The decision to split every other pair should be made based on what card the dealer shows.

In Pennsylvania casinos, players can surrender in blackjack. “The book” recommends surrendering when the odds are clearly against you. For example, if your hand total is 16 and the dealer has a 9, 10, or ace, it’s best to surrender.

Spanish 21 is very similar to blackjack, but with a few key differences. Fun fact, despite its name, Spanish 21 actually originated in Britain.

The biggest difference in Spanish 21 is that there are no 10 value cards. This means that more often than not, the player's hands will have lower value cards. Another exciting difference is that players can double down even after they’ve already drawn cards! Players also love Spanish 21 for its exciting and potentially lucrative side wagers. Visit Rivers Casino today to play some of the best table games in Philly!

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