How Building a Console Blackjack Game Helped Me Grow as a Python Developer

On Day 11 of my #100DaysOfCode journey with Angela Yu’s renowned Python Bootcamp, I set out to create a console version of the classic game—Blackjack. What started as a simple coding assignment turned out to be a meaningful experience full of learning, errors, aha-moments, and, most importantly, motivation to keep growing as a developer.

Video Demo: See the Game in Action!

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Click the video above to watch me play my Python Blackjack game!

What I Learned

1. Functions for Reuse and Clarity

Breaking down the program into smaller functions (deal_cards(), calculate_score(), compare(), and play_game()) showed me how powerful modular code can be. Each function had a single, clear job, making the project easier to read and debug.

2. List Manipulation

Representing hands as Python lists really cemented for me just how flexible lists are. I used methods like .append() for adding cards and .remove() (especially for handling the tricky Ace logic—turning an 11 into a 1). This hands-on practice made these core list operations second nature.

3. Control Flow & Loops

Implementing game logic deepened my understanding of if/elif/else blocks and while loops. Handling win/lose checks, repeating rounds, and getting user input all became much clearer.

4. Randomization

Simulating card shuffling with random.choice() added an element of realism. Using Python’s random module to recreate unpredictability was surprisingly satisfying!

5. User Interaction

Working with input() and print() statements sharpened my skills in making programs interactive and user-friendly. Responding to user choices and showing real-time game updates built my confidence.

Where I Did the Project

I built this project as part of the 100 Days of Python Bootcamp by Angela Yu. Angela’s course is not only beginner-friendly but also structured in a way that encourages small, cumulative wins—making each day’s lesson both approachable and rewarding.

Difficulties Faced (and How I Overcame Them)

• Ace Value Logic: Figuring out how to handle Aces (1 or 11) without breaking the game was tricky! I debugged several times, eventually realizing that replacing an 11 with a 1 when the number was over 21 was key.

• Game Flow: Managing when the game should end (e.g., Blackjack/natural, bust) took several iterations and print statements to refine.

• Input Handling: Early bugs came from not handling unexpected user inputs. Keeping prompts clear and looping correctly helped squash these.

Every “bug” was an opportunity to read error messages and use print-debugging, both critical skills for future projects.

Motivating Myself to Keep Going

There were moments (especially when running into persistent bugs or dealing with logic headaches) when I felt frustrated. Here are strategies that kept me going and may help fellow learners:

• Celebrate Small Wins: Finishing each function or making the game run for the first time was a mini-celebration.

• Remember the Why: I frequently reminded myself of my goal—to become a better Python programmer, one day at a time.

• Share Progress: Documenting my progress on social media and with other learners made the journey less lonely.

• Keep Perspective: Day 11 is just the start—a foundation. There’s so much more to learn, and every stumbling block now is foundational wisdom later.

Looking Ahead: The Journey Continues

This Blackjack game is only Day 11 out of 100. There are all kinds of data structures, APIs, GUIs, web development, and more ahead. If I keep stacking small daily projects, who knows what cool things I’ll build by Day 100?

Final Thoughts

Coding something tangible like Blackjack—even if it’s simple—makes all the theory come alive. The best part? Every new project gets a little easier and a little more fun. If you’re reading this and on your #100DaysOfCode, keep going! Your future self will thank you.

Thanks, Angela Yu, for the roadmap and encouragement—and to everyone coding along, let’s keep at it! The journey is just beginning.