Blackjack, also known as Twenty One (21) is the most popular casino table game in the world. Its popularity derives from the unique mixture of luck and skill, required to master the game. Therefore, although playing Blackjack is quite easy to start, a deeper understanding of the game, its rules and strategic guidelines deeply increase the player’s winning odds.
The game’s exposure to card counting has also stirred the imagination of players worldwide and added the extra excitement required to make the game even more popular. It has also made it the perfect candidate to be the subject of numerous Hollywood films, causing even more interest in the game.
Origins of Blackjack are not known. It seems, however that the game commenced between 16th and 17th century in Spain and France. It then expanded to other European countries, and finally landed in the US where it has gained its popularity in the American Casinos.
The game has many variations, depending on geographic location and basic rules set by each casino. The variations deeply affect casino edge (advantage over the players). Therefore it is important when selecting a casino and then a table to fully understand the variation it offers and its impact on casino edge.