Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Card & Board Game, Simulator
- Platforms: Amiga, Apple II, Apple IIGS, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS
- Developers: Westwood Associates
- Publishers: MicroIllusions
Blackjack Academy (1987): The Ultimate Blackjack Learning Tool
Released in 1987, Blackjack Academy is a computer game that teaches players everything they need to know about blackjack, from the basics of the game to advanced strategies. The game features a five-player table, multiple table rules, and on-line help for all the different play options. It also offers a variety of features to help players learn and improve their game, including:
- Card counting toggle: This feature allows players to practice card counting, a technique that can help them gain an edge over the house.
- Player card total toggle: This feature allows players to see the total value of their cards, which can be helpful for learning basic strategy.
- Money management guide: This guide provides players with tips on how to manage their money while playing blackjack.
- Any dollar amount can be selected from table minimum to $9999.00: This feature allows players to practice playing with different stakes.
- Pocket size quick reference guide for optimal play: This guide provides players with a quick and easy reference for the optimal play for any given hand.
Blackjack Academy is a great game for both novice and experienced blackjack players. It is a fun and engaging way to learn the game, and it can also help players improve their skills.
Gameplay
Blackjack Academy is played at a five-player table. The player sits in the first seat, and the dealer sits in the last seat. The game uses a standard deck of 52 cards.
The goal of the game is to beat the dealer by getting a hand total that is closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand total, without going over 21. If the player’s hand total is higher than the dealer’s hand total, the player wins. If the player’s hand total is lower than the dealer’s hand total, the player loses. If the player’s hand total is the same as the dealer’s hand total, the game is a push.
The game begins with each player being dealt two cards. The player can then choose to hit (take another card), stand (keep their current hand), double down (double their bet and take one more card), or split (split their hand into two separate hands). The dealer must hit on 16 or less and stand on 17 or more.
Table Rules
Blackjack Academy offers a variety of table rules, including:
- Las Vegas rules: The dealer must hit on soft 17.
- Reno rules: The dealer must stand on soft 17.
- Atlantic City rules: The dealer must hit on soft 17. The player can double down on any two cards.
- Custom rules: The player can create their own custom table rules.
Learning Features
Blackjack Academy offers a variety of learning features, including:
- On-line help: The game provides on-line help for all the different play options.
- Optimal play: The game will give the player the optimal play for the current hand, if desired.
- Card counting: The game allows players to practice card counting.
- Player card total toggle: The game allows players to see the total value of their cards.
- Money management guide: The game provides players with tips on how to manage their money while playing blackjack.
Conclusion
Blackjack Academy is a great game for both novice and experienced blackjack players. It is a fun and engaging way to learn the game, and it can also help players improve their skills. The game offers a variety of table rules and learning features, making it a great choice for players of all levels.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
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