The dealer, also known as the Croupier, is a casino representative who is at the table and is responsible for the game process, from dealing cards to changing decks. The cards are dealt to the left of the dealer (from right to left for the player): the first card is dealt face down for everyone, including the dealer, and the last card is dealt face down. After that, the players decide what to do with their hand. In the next paragraph, we will explain all the possible options for action. Once all players have made a decision, it is the dealer’s turn.
In addition to compulsory gaming actions such as dealing cards and announcing the results of the game, the dealer must maintain a friendly and cheerful atmosphere at the gaming table. Some tables are made “quiet” – at them the dealer’s conversations are kept to a minimum. At the same time, at the Blackjack Party tables, dealers constantly joke with the players and discuss current topics. It is worth mentioning the tables for high rollers: here are specially selected croupiers who can keep the conversation going and not be afraid of big bets.
Options to play your hand
There are five basic options for playing the hand dealt to you. Each of these actions in a land-based casino is displayed not in words, but in hand gestures. This is done so that managers watching through webcams can be aware of the player’s decisions. Each action is explained in detail below, but always have time to make a decision: if you are not at the table, the STAND option is automatically selected.
Stop (STAND)
When you are satisfied with the cards you received, you can opt out of receiving additional cards. Please note that the dealer must stop when reaching 17 or more points.
In online blackjack, “Stand” is done by pressing the “-” button. In normal play: Wave your hand from left to right over your cards.
Take card (HIT)
If you think that you can collect a more valuable combination by bringing it closer to 21 points, you can request an additional card, we do not recommend taking additional cards after 17 points.
In online blackjack, you can select the HIT option by clicking on the “+” button. In a regular game: touch your cards or the table surface with your finger.
Doubling (DOUBLE)
It is beneficial to do it when it is mathematically justified. For example, your hand adds 11 points, while the dealer has 5 open. After activating the “Double” option, you will double your original bet, but the dealer will give you only one additional card, and then move on to another box.
In online blackjack, it is activated by clicking on the “x2” button. In a normal game: add a second stack of chips next to it, and without touching the cards, lift one finger.
Split (SPLIT)
If the first two cards you are dealt are a pair (3-3, 7-7, KK, etc.), then you have the option of splitting them into two separate hands. To do this, you need to make an additional bet of the same value as the initial one, after which the hand will be divided into two, and you will receive an additional card for each hand. This feature allows you to turn a bad hand into two new ones, which makes it possible to double your bet (we’ll explain what this means later). If you don’t know how to react to a hand, just remember the following rule: always split aces and eights, and also check out the Blackjack Strategies section.
In live dealer blackjack, split can be done in different ways depending on the provider. In normal play: move the second stack of chips to the spot next to the first, then, without touching your cards, lift two fingers up.
Pass (SURRENDER)
Pass, that is, the opportunity to surrender after you have received a hand and saw the dealer’s face up card. This feature is not very common among online providers, but it is sometimes found: for example, at the Ezugi tables.
In live dealer blackjack, the Surrender button differs depending on the provider, but is always clearly marked. In normal play, slide your finger behind your bet and say “Pass”.