The release of the film, 21, shows how popular blackjack is. What makes it even more special is the fact that this film is based on a true story. One cannot just imagine why students from respected universities would spend time and effort in card counting and other related strategies just to beat the house. Indeed, there is something very special in the game that players cannot resist.
Blackjack the early beginnings
No records have been found that will explain how blackjack started. The only thing that is certain is that it originated from France and shares certain similarities with Vingt En Un. Both games aim to get a score of 21. However, in Vingt En Un, only the dealer can make a double. In addition, if the dealer gets a natural, he will receive a triple play from other players.
Playing blackjack
To win in blackjack, players should get a score of 21 or at least close to it. To avoid confusion, one must always remember that face cards have no value at all. Players should not get too excited if for example, they get two (2) kings for that would yield nothing. Unless a player gets an ace, then that could make a big difference in the game.
The Ace
Ace in blackjack can be a double-edged sword. This is because it can take two values. It can take a value of 11 or 1. Now under different circumstances, it can help the player win or bust. For example, a player who gets an ace and 7—the ace can take the value of 11, thus giving the player a total of 18, which is already considered as a strong hand in the game. However, in instances wherein a player holding a 2 and 9 asked for a hit and gets an ace, the ace can only take a value of 1. This is because 2 and 9 already yield a score of 11. If the ace takes a value of 11, the player gets a bust since the total value of the cards exceeds 21.
21 and a natural
A 21 cannot surpass a natural hand. So what does this means? A natural hand is achieved if the player gets a total value of 21 in two (2) cards. However, a player that gets a value of 21 via making a hit, is not considered as a natural hand.
With the fun and excitement characterized in this game, it is no wonder why this is too popular.
