Rules can vary depending on where you are playing. Below are some simplified rules for the game. Make sure to check with the casino before you begin as their rules may differ:

Objective of the Game
The object of blackjack, in its simplest terms, is to beat the dealer. Get closer to 21 than the dealer without going over and you win. Go over 21 and you hand has "bust" and you lose. If you have the same hand value as the dealer, the hand is said to "push" and you receive you bet back.

Value of the Cards
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 count as face value
10, J, Q, K all count as 10
aces count as either 1 or 11.

Playing the Game
You are dealt 2 cards and the dealer is dealt 2 cards (1 face up and 1 face down). At this stage it is most common to take 2 actions, "Hit" or "Stand". If you "Hit" you take another card. If "Stand" you take no more cards. You can also "Double Down" (Double the wager, take exactly one more card, and then stand), "Split" ( Double the wager and have each card be the first card in a new hand. This option is available only when both cards have the same value) or "Surrender" (Forfeit half the bet and give up the hand. Surrender is no longer offered at most casinos).

Your turn is over after deciding to stand, doubling down to take a single card, or busting. If you bust, you loses the bet even if the dealer goes on to bust as well.

After you finished making your decisions, the dealer then reveals the hidden hole card and plays the hand. House rules say that the dealer must hit until he or she has at least 17, regardless of what the players have.