Blackjack is a simple game at its core: the goal is to make your cards add up to as close to 21 as possible – without going over. If you get closer to 21 than the dealer does, you win the hand.
First, you start with two cards. If you have an ace (11 points) and a face card or 10, you have blackjack and automatically win (or push if the dealer has the same. However, if your cards do not add up to 21, you have options. You can stand – which means you take no more cards. For instance, if you had two face cards for a score of 20, you would probably do that. On the other hand, if you had two 3’s, for a total of 6, you would want to “hit” which is what it is called when you ask the dealer for more cards.

These are the two simplest scenarios in blackjack. There are other options though. Understanding these other options will help you maximize your profits and improve your enjoyment of the game. Before you start playing, keep the following options that some blackjack games offer in mind:
- Double Down – After you are dealt the two cards, if you choose to double down you can ask for one (only one) additional card from the dealer. If you win, you get double; if you lose, you lose double.
- Splitting – If you are dealt a pair (two cards with the same value) you can choose to split the hand. Often players choose to split dealt aces in this manner. You can then win, or lose, on both hands independently of one another.
- Surrender – Once you have been dealt two cards, and the dealer checks to assure he does not have blackjack, you can choose to surrender your hand and get half your bet back. This is not a common option in casinos in the United States, but is found online and casinos around the world. It can be a good way to get out of a hand that seems as though it would be hard to win.
Once you have mastered the basics of the game, you may be ready to practice your blackjack skills. Most people cannot get out to the casino as often as they would like, so playing online is a great alternative. Single deck blackjack at Virgin Games gives you that real-life casino experience from the comfort of your home. This game has all the features and options that you have come to expect from the best casino games. Playing single deck blackjack at Virgin Games is a great way for players to get more comfortable with the game and start taking their strategy to the next level. Check it out and get in on the fun today.