Online Blackjack at PokerStars Casino

Online Blackjack is the online version of the timeless card game played around the world. The goal is to use your cards to reach or get as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it. You take on the dealer during every hand and must have a better hand to win.

How Online Blackjack Works

Standard online Blackjack games are entirely automated. They use Random Number Generator (RNG) technology to deal cards and generate outcomes; Random Number Generator software is independently tested to make sure outcomes are unpredictable and the software works as intended. The difference between classic Blackjack and Live Blackjack is that Live Blackjack uses real dealers rather than Random Number Generator software.

Most online Blackjack variants follow a similar format:

• You place your bets 
• You are dealt two cards, usually face up
  • The dealer is dealt two cards, one face up and one face down
• You decide whether to hit or stand
• The dealer plays their cards and any wins are awarded

Blackjack Rules Explained

The main rule of online Blackjack is to hit a score higher than the dealer’s without exceeding 21. 21 can be landed with a minimum of two cards, otherwise known as Blackjack (an Ace paired with a face card or a 10). Blackjack is an unbeatable hand, but it doesn’t guarantee a win – if the dealer also hits Blackjack, the stake is “pushed” or returned.

Here are the card values:

• Number cards (two-10) – worth their face value 
• Face cards (Jack, Queen, King) – worth 10 
• Ace – worth either one or 11

Different variants can follow different rules. Players can review the relevant Blackjack rules before joining a game. For more information on Blackjack strategy, find a dedicated Blackjack strategy guide.

Key Blackjack Actions

Certain decisions must be made during a Blackjack hand based on the value of your cards. The actions below are often available during a hand, depending on the table rules:

• Hit – take an additional card
• Stand – keep your current hand
• Double down – double your bet amount and receive an extra card
• Split – separate matching cards into two hands and play them separately
• Surrender – forfeit part of the bet to end the hand early

Remember that if you exceed 21, you bust and instantly lose the hand regardless of the dealer’s hand.

Dealer Rules and Table Variations

The rules of an online Blackjack game can vary depending on the type of Blackjack variant being played. Everything from the set up of the game to what the dealer can do might change. For example, the number of decks used could be between six and eight. Or it could be mandatory for the dealer to hit or stand on a soft 17.

Online Blackjack tables can vary in their rules and setup. Full details of the rules are displayed within each game.

RTP, Odds, and House Edge in Blackjack

Return to Player (RTP) is the theoretical long-term return of a Blackjack game over many hands. RTP does not predict the outcome of individual hands. Results can vary depending on the table rules and game format.

The house edge is the built in advantage of the game for the casino over time. Online Blackjack odds describe the chances of winning, losing or pushing a hand. 

Take on the dealer at PokerStars Casino with a range of online Blackjack games available in different formats. We’ve got exclusive releases from our in-house team, as well as Blackjack variants from established game providers. Whether you’re a first-time player or a high roller, there’s a game for your bankroll. Plus, our collection of games utilizes certified Random Number Generator technology to ensure independent outcomes for every hand. All games are available on PokerStars regulated and secure platform.

For more information on how online Blackjack works, including the basic rules, available games and mobile play, continue reading.

Blackjack Variants at PokerStars

Tailor your experience by choosing the online Blackjack format that matches your playing style. Each game is slightly different, while still adhering to the most basic principles. For example, the side bets might differ. 

These are the online Blackjack variants you can play:

• Classic Blackjack – a timeless version that uses standard rules and eight decks
• Blackjack PokerStars Originals – a popular version of the classic casino game developed by our in-house team
• Perfect Pair Blackjack – a twist on the usual format that offers various side bets to enhance the gameplay

Playing Online Blackjack on Mobile

All our online Blackjack games are designed to work on mobile. The navigation is intuitive and interface optimized, meaning the screen instantly adapts to your device so that every feature is easy to use. Plus, playing on mobile makes Blackjack available on the go for both iOS and Android, whether on a web browser or an app. Blackjack games are offered on PokerStars regulated and secure platform.

Trusted and Responsible Online Blackjack

PokerStars online Blackjack games are offered through a regulated platform that’s designed to support secure gameplay. Technology and security measures are in place to ensure accounts are protected and games are safe to play. 

In addition, Responsible Gaming tools are available to keep players within their limits. Check out the resources at your disposal on our Responsible Gaming page to make sure you stay in control.

Looking for answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding online Blackjack? You’re in the right place because we’ve outlined a selection of them below.

What are the payouts in online Blackjack?

The payouts in online Blackjack depend on the variant. However, lots of games have similar payouts for certain hands. For example, Blackjack pays at odds of 3:2 for a win. The majority of other winning hands payout at 1:1 during the base game. This might change for side bets and other bets. You can find the relevant payout information within the game details.

How are cards dealt in online Blackjack?

Cards are dealt in standard online Blackjack using Random Number Generator software. Online Blackjack is different from the traditional version as there are no physical dealers. Instead, the Random Number Generator produces cards digitally. A Random Number Generator also ensures hands are dealt individually and previous outcomes don’t impact future results.

What are the card values in online Blackjack?

The card values in online Blackjack are the following:

• Number cards (two-10) – count as face value
• Face cards (Jack, Queen & King) – count as 10
• Ace – counts as either one or 11, depending on the hand

You need to use your cards to get as close as possible to 21 to beat the dealer. An Ace and a face card or a 10 is Blackjack.

Is online Blackjack fair?

Yes, online Blackjack is fair. When you play with an officially licensed operator, like PokerStars Casino, games operate in tandem with strict independent testing standards and robust regulatory requirements. This is because games must meet certain criteria to be compliant. Licensed operators must adhere to specific requirements, such as third-party testing. The use of Random Number Generators also means the gameplay is fair as the results are unpredictable.