Objective of the Game
The objective of Twenty One is to get as close as possible to the sum of 21 with your cards, without exceeding it. The player with the highest sum upto 21 wins the round.
Game Material
- A standard deck of 52 cards (no Jokers).
Number of Players
The game can be played by 2 to many players. Typically, there is one dealer and any number of players.
Card Values
- Number Cards (2 to 10): Are worth their face value.
- Face Cards (Jack, Queen, King): Are worth 10 points each.
- Ace: Can be worth either 1 or 11 points, whichever is more advantageous to the player.
Gameplay
- Setup:
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One player takes on the role of the dealer. Other players are the "players."
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Dealing the Cards:
- The dealer shuffles the cards and deals two cards to each player, including themselves. In some variants, the dealer receives only one face-up card first.
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Cards in front of players are face-up, while one card of the dealer remains face down.
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Playing Rounds:
- Starting with the player on the dealer's left, each player has the chance to take more cards ("hit") or remain with their current score ("stand").
- Hit: The player requests another card.
- Stand: The player holds their current number of cards.
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Bust: If a player's card total exceeds 21, they have "busted" and automatically lose.
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Dealer Plays:
- After all players have made their decisions, the dealer reveals their hidden card.
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The dealer draws cards based on fixed rules, which typically require the dealer to hit at 16 or less and stand on 17 or more.
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Determining the Winner:
- Players who are closer to 21 than the dealer win.
- If the dealer busts, all remaining players win.
- In the event of a tie, usually the dealer wins.
Strategic Tips
- Pay close attention to the sum of the cards and the remaining possibilities, especially when drawing additional cards.
- Learn when it is advantageous to "hit" or "stand," based on the dealer's face-up card.
- Remember that the Ace is flexible. Use its two possible values to your advantage.
Twenty One combines luck with strategy and requires a keen eye for chances and risks.
