Blackjack is a popular card game where players compete against the dealer. The goal is to have a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer�s without exceeding it. Each player is dealt two cards initially and can choose to "hit" (take another card) or "stand" (keep their current hand). Face cards are worth 10, aces count as 1 or 11, and other cards retain their face value. If a player's hand exceeds 21, they "bust" and lose automatically. The dealer follows specific rules, usually hitting until reaching a set total. Winning hands pay even money, while a natural blackjack�an ace and a 10-value card�typically pays 3:2. The game combines luck and strategy for an engaging experience.