Blackjack can be played with anywhere from 1 to 8 decks of cards. More decks equals more of an advantage to the house, where as less decks equals more of an advantage for the player. Most casinos will offer a limited amount of tables with single or double-deck blackjack, with some not offering it whatsoever.

Table limits normally start at a minimum of $5 and have a maximum betting cap ranging anywhere from $100 to $50,000 (note: this figure ONLY exists at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas). Tables will normally accommodate up to 6 players, with the action starting from the dealer’s left to right. The dealer will always be the last to act in the game of Blackjack.

The game starts as soon as the player pushes in their bet into the appropriate betting circle. It should be noted that higher-denomination chips should be placed on the bottom of the stack, with lower-denomination ones being stacked towards the top. Once the dealer has instructed the players that no more bets can be placed, the cards will then be dealt out.

All cards that are dealt out to the player(s) are dealt face-up, with the dealer taking their first card face-down and their second card face-up. Players have a variety of options to choose from after their first 2 cards are dealt out. However, analyzing the dealer’s up-card is essential to making the decision to “hit” or “stand” on your own hand.

Players will normally stand on anything from 16 to 21, and will normally take a hit on anything 11 and below. Players can hit as many times as they please as long as they don’t go over 21. Taking multiple cards (hits) is a calculated risk that must be taken if the dealer is showing a strong up card such as a face card or an Ace.