This invention relates to a method of playing a modified version of blackjack wherein the dealer is an active rather than a passive participant. The dealer selects which of the two dealer initial cards to turn face-up for exposure to the other players. The dealer also elects whether to surrender or play the hand that is dealt. The dealer further may opt to take additional cards on any "soft" hand and is not forced to stand on a losing hand. Additional modifications to the standard game of blackjack which increase the role of strategy and skill as well as increase the excitement of the game relate to doubling up which includes removing the limit on the number of cards that a player may take after placing an additional wager and removing the limit on the amount by which the initial wager may be increased.