How to Play
Blackjack, or 21, is one of the most popular card games played at Spirit Mountain. It is easy to learn and is very exciting to play. For your gaming pleasure, Spirit Mountain has 26 blackjack tables all dealt from a box called a "shoe". Each table uses six decks.
Object of the Game
In blackjack, everyone plays against the dealer. The player receives both cards face-up and the dealer receives his or her first card face-up and the second card face down. The object of the game is to get as close as possible to 21 without going over 21. If a hand goes over 21, it is called a "bust" and the wager is lost. In 21, jacks, queens, kings, and tens count as 10. An ace may be played as a 1 or an 11. All other cards are played at face value.
"Hit or Bust"
When you receive your first two cards, you may either "stand" or "hit." When you "stand" you must wave your hand parallel to the table, which means that you feel you are close enough to 21. If you wish to receive another card, or a "hit," scratch the surface of the table with your fingertips. You may draw as many cards as you want until you feel you are close enough to 21 or you "bust." If you are nearer to 21 then the dealer, you win and are paid an amount equal to your original wager. If your hand is less than the dealer hand you lose. Ties are a standoff or "push" and your bet remains on the table. Should your count total 21 on your first two cards, you have a blackjack and the dealer will pay you one and a half times your original wager. If the dealer also has a blackjack at the same time you do, it is a "push."
Split and Double Down
In 21 the player has all the options. If you receive a pair in your first two cards, you may split your cards and match your original bet on your second hand. You may continue to split your cards for a maximum of four hands. You may then take as many hits as you want. If you split a pair of aces, you will receive only one card on each of the hands. Players also have the option of increasing their wager by "doubling down". You may double down on your first cards however, you will only receive one card. The dealer makes no decision in playing his or her hand.
At Spirit Mountain, the dealer is required to "hit" all 16´s and below, and "stand" on all 17´s and above. The dealers will be happy to answer any questions you have regarding playing blackjack.
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