Blackjack

Blackjack's unique blend of chance and skill have contributed to a truly compelling card game that attracts players of all levels to its charms.

Blackjack received a PR boost recently through the blockbuster hit, "21." The movie focused on the strategy of card counting which is just one way of approaching the game.

Blackjack is a contest between player and dealer. Both receive two cards, the player's are dealt face up but the dealer's second card dealt face down. The aim of the game is to reach a card count as close to 21 as possible, without exceeding this value. After evaluating his cards the player chooses whether to "hit" to be dealt another card, or to "hold" to receive no more cards. If the player hits and exceeds 21 then the dealer wins immediately.

When the player holds the dealer can also deal himself further cards as desired. After this round, the player with the count closest to 21 wins. If there is a draw then the house wins.

There are many other dynamics to the game including splitting, buying insurance and, of course, counting cards, although learn the basics first and advance your game from there.