The acclaimed Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes was the first person to mention the game of Blackjack in actual writing, and this has led historians to confirm that the game has been around since at least the 16th Century. The creator of the legendary “Don Quixote” – widely regarded as the world’s first proper novel – talked of it in its Spanish name “Ventiuna”, however it is still the same game.

It speaks volumes of its popularity that it is still played today, perhaps even more than it was back 500 years ago. In fact, Blackjack is one of the most common table games around these days, with hundreds of thousands of people trying their luck on it each and every day. It’s not something you should jump into without knowing the basics though, because this could lead you to lose quite a lot of money. Standby for a brief run through and learn to play Blackjack and their rules and strategy…

The Basics

So, there is a reason Miguel de Cervantes first referred to Blackjack as “Ventiuna” (Spanish for 21), and that is quite simply because the game revolves around the premise that whoever gets a closer number to 21 as possible with the sum of their cards will win. Careful though, because going over this amount will result in a straight loss.

Blackjack is always played against the dealer, so unlike games such as Poker there is no gambler on gambler competition here, only gambler on house. It does make things simpler, however it is also important to remember that the house is never gunning for you to win – why would they?

Essential Vocabulary

Now, like with most casino table games, there is some essential vocabulary in Blackjack that you really have to have a good grasp of in order to play it properly. Let’s take a look at the essentials:

Bust: You really do not want to Bust when playing Blackjack, the reason why? Well, to Bust means to go over 21, and that in turn means you lose the hand.
Hit: This is the term used when you want another card from the dealer. Be careful when you use this, you don’t want to bust now do you?
Split: If you are dealt two of the same value cards you can choose to split them into two separate hands, therefore being able to place a bet on each one. This is a more advanced technique but can pay serious dividends.

Essential Strategy

There are countless different tactics when it comes to playing Blackjack, and almost all of them have a fair bit of mathematics involved. In fact, if you happen to have a mathematical brain you could even try card counting, just don’t get caught!

As for betting strategy, we really wouldn’t recommend using things like the Martingale tactic unless you have a genuinely bottomless gambling budget. The premise here is that you double your bet after each loss, thereby making it back on any wins. We much prefer raising your bet slightly after each win, it is much safer and can pay off much more handsomely. By following all these rules, you will become like a fish in water playing at Curacao casino.

Underage gambling is an offence. You must be over 18 years old to gamble.

Any form of gambling should always be fun, playing in a way that is right for you. It’s good to set limits, take time out or set up reminders.

Please gamble responsibly and in moderation.

For more information on the tools available to help to keep you safe or if you want advice or support you can call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 (England, Scotland and Wales or visit Gamblingtherapy.org).