What is blackjack and how to play it in Qatar in 2024

Blackjack is a one of the world’s most popular casino games that enjoys widespread participation. Using standard decks of 52 cards, players in blackjack don’t directly compete against each other; instead, each player faces off against the dealer to see if they can hit 21 or beat the dealer’s hand.

What is the history of blackjack?

The origins of blackjack trace back to Spain and France in the 18th century. Its initial reference is found in a book authored by Miguel de Cervantes, a famed Spanish writer, who was also a gambler. Principal versions of the game, known as ‘Ventiuna’ in Spain and ‘Vingt-et-un’ in France, emerged simultaneously. The name translates to ’21’, underlining the key rule of the game.

Blackjack made its appearance in American gambling halls during the early 19th century. Over the next few decades, the game’s popularity soared, establishing strong footholds in bustling cities and towns alike.

An important milestone that shaped modern blackjack is the publication of ‘The Optimum Strategy in Blackjack’, a paper by Baldwin, Cantey, Maisel, and McDermott in 1956. It laid the groundwork for blackjack strategies, scientifically illustrating the optimum way of playing any hand. This publication significantly altered the perspective on the game, putting a spotlight on skill over sheer luck.

The evolution of blackjack didn’t stop at brick-and-mortar casinos. The introduction of digital technology breathed new life into the game. By the turn of the millennium, online blackjack seized the reins, driving the game into uncharted territory. Today, blackjack thrives in both traditional casinos and online platforms, offering an immersive gaming experience to players worldwide.

What is the objective of the game?

At the heart of it, blackjack, also known as 21, is a card game where the primary goal is to have a hand as close to 21 as possible, but not exceeding this number.

The valuations of the cards are crucial to accomplishing this. Numerical cards, those ranging from 2 to 10, hold their face value, contributing that precise number of points to the hand’s total. Court cards, namely the King, Queen, and Jack, each correspond to 10 points. The flexible Ace card could either be counted as 1 point or 11 points, decided by the player, based on the other cards in their hand and their current total. Let’s say, for example, that a player holds 7 and 4 in their hand, totaling 11 points. If they draw an ace, they might decide it’s worth 11 points, pushing their total to 22, and they’d be declared bust as it exceeds 21.

The game begins with the dealing of two cards to the players and the dealer, face-up for the players and one face down for the dealer. The highest total a player can achieve is a “natural blackjack”, accomplished with an Ace and a 10-point card, forming an unbeatable sum of 21.

Players subsequently take turns in trying to get as close to 21 without going over. If a player’s total surpasses 21, they ‘bust’ and lose the round regardless of the dealer’s hand. During this process, players maintain their strategic approach of whether to ‘hit’ for another card or ‘stand’ for keeping their total.

In blackjack, the competition is between each player and the dealer, with the highest hand below or equal to 21 emerging the winner. If a player and the dealer tie in their total, it’s called a ‘push’, resulting in the player’s bet being returned. This key objective guides the tactics and decisions within each round, making blackjack not just a game of chance, but a blend of strategy and fortune.

What are the rules of blackjack?

In blackjack, players need to understand not only their objectives but also the rules involved in actual gameplay. Let’s dive deeper into these rules.

Card Values

In blackjack, cards hold certain values. Numerical cards from 2 to 10 carry their face value, and in other words, a three stands for three points, and a eight stands for eight points, for instance. Face cards — the Jack, Queen, King — are worth ten points each. Aces have a unique characteristic; they could be valued at both one or eleven, based on the requirement of the player’s hand. For example, if you have an Ace and a seven, you can count them as either eight or eighteen to optimize your chances against the dealer.

Gameplay

The gameplay starts with placing bets. In casinos, you place your chips onto the circle or square designed for bets. Each player, including the dealer, gets dealt with two cards. If your initial two cards tally to 21 (an Ace and a ten-value card), that’s a blackjack! However, if not, you decide to ‘hit’ (request another card), ‘stand’ (stick with the current total), ‘double’ (double the initial wager and receive just one more card), or ‘split’ (create two separate hands if the initial two cards hold the same value). The dealer serves himself last, sticking to a strict set of rules — they must hit until their hand totals 17 or higher and must stand at 17 or more. The aim is to beat the dealer’s totals without surpassing 21.

What is an Insurance in Blackjack?

Insurance in blackjack is a side bet that players can place if the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace. This offers protection in case the dealer reveals a blackjack, meaning a ten-value card as their hidden card. If you opt for insurance, it costs half your initial bet, but if the dealer does have a blackjack, the insurance pays out at 2:1, meaning you break even.

What is a Settlement in Blackjack?

Settlement in Blackjack refers to the payout received upon winning a hand. After players complete their hands, the dealer concludes the hand by drawing cards as per the house rules. If the dealer busts or if the player’s hand is higher, the player wins. If both the player and the dealer have the same total, it’s a ‘push’ — the original bet is returned to the player, resulting in a draw.

What are the Payout Odds for Blackjack?

A winning hand in blackjack typically pays even money, which means you win the same amount as your bet. However, getting a blackjack may have a better payout. If you hit a blackjack, which is a 21 from your first two cards, the payout typically is 3:2, meaning for every $2 bet you get a $3 return. However, some casinos may offer a 6:5 payout for blackjacks, which is less favorable for the player. Always ensure you’re aware of the payout odds before you commence.

What is the basic strategy for playing blackjack?

The most basic strategy for playing blackjack is called “basic strategy.” It’s a set of rules and decisions that players can follow to maximize their chances of winning based on the game’s rules and the player’s hand. Here’s a simplified version of basic strategy:

1. Know when to Hit or Stand:
   • Hit when your hand is 8 or less.
   • Stand when your hand is 17 or more.
   • If the dealer’s up card is 7 or higher, and your hand is 12-16, hit.
   • If the dealer’s up card is 6 or lower, and your hand is 12-16, stand.
2. Splitting Pairs:
   • Always split Aces and 8s.
   • Never split 10s, 5s, or 4s.
   • Split 2s and 3s when the dealer’s up card is 4-7.
   • Split 6s when the dealer’s up card is 3-6.
   • Split 7s when the dealer’s up card is 2-7.
   • Split 9s when the dealer’s up card is 2-6, 8-9.
3. Doubling Down:
   • Double down when your hand totals 10 or 11, and the dealer’s up card is lower than your total.
4. Surrendering:
   • Surrender if the casino allows it and if your hand has a very low probability of winning. This typically means surrendering hard 16 (but not 8-8) against the dealer’s 9, 10, or Ace.

It’s important to note that basic strategy can vary slightly depending on the specific rules of the game you’re playing, such as the number of decks in play and whether the dealer hits or stands on a soft 17. Using basic strategy doesn’t guarantee you’ll win every hand, but it does give you the best statistical chance of winning in the long run.

How to play blackjack in qatar?

To play blackjack in Qatar on Betway, start by visiting our online casino, where you’ll find a selection of popular games, including blackjack. If you don’t already have an account with Betway, you’ll need to sign up for one. During the registration process, be sure to set up your preferred payment method to facilitate deposits and withdrawals seamlessly. Once your account is set up and funded, navigate to the blackjack section of the site and begin enjoying the game. Betway’s platform offers a secure and convenient way to experience the excitement of blackjack from wherever you are in Qatar.

What other table games does Betway offer?

Betway offers a wide range of other table games that’ll keep you entertained. From the spin of the online roulette wheel to the thrill of craps, there’s something for everyone. If you’re a poker fan, you’ll find plenty of variations to test your skills. And for those who prefer a slower pace, baccarat is a great choice.