Blackjack is a fun game that can be played in an online casino or in a physical casino location. The goal seems simple as you are trying to be closer to 21 than the dealer, but there are many strategies involved. Continue reading below to learn what you need to know about this game.
How to Play Blackjack
As mentioned, Blackjack is played with the goal of having your cards closer to 21 than the dealer’s cards. It is imperative that you do not go over 21, however, as this will be considered a bust. The dealer can also bust, however, and you will win if he or she does go over 21. When adding the card’s values together, you will count the numbers as they are. An Ace card can be used as a one or as an 11 and all face cards are equal to 10 points. If you have an Ace and a face card in your hand at the same time, you have a “natural” 21 and automatically win cash. You will be dealt two cards to start the game, and the dealer will also have two cards. Your cards will both be face up, and the dealer will only have one face-up card. You can choose to continue collecting cards until you feel that you are as close as you can get to 21.
Blackjack Terminology
It is important to understand basic terminology regarding Blackjack. These are all used when playing the game.
Hit
A hit means that you are choosing to collect another card. You can indicate a “hit” by tapping your hand.
Stand
A stand means that you are finished collecting cards. You can wave your hand “no” in order to indicate that you would like to stand.
Soft
A soft typically means that you have an ace and a six in your hand. A dealer typically has to continue collecting cards until they have reached 17.
Split
A split is only allowable when you have two of the same card. You can put those two cards in two separate hands if you deem fit.
Double Down
Sometimes you have the opportunity to double your bet to score more. You can only receive one more card when you choose this betting method though.
What Happens in a Tie?
Though it occurs rarely, sometimes ties do happen where you and the dealer will reach the same number in Blackjack. For most casinos, this will be considered something that is known as a push. A push means that you will win back just the cash that you put down if you tie with the dealer, but you will not lose any cash and will not win any additional cash. Some casinos do have negative consequences to the player in the case of a tie, but this is something that you should check with the casino about. Try to avoid those casinos if you are able to as this is not fair to you.
Winning Chances for Blackjack
If you are in the house seat, you have the highest chances of winning at Blackjack. This is because you will be the last player to show your cards, meaning that every other player has the opportunity to bust or reach a very small sum before you. You have the chance of winning when you are in this seat of around 8%. It is imperative to understand the statistics regarding Blackjack, however, in order to increase your chances of winning as this 8% chance does include beginners as well. It is not true for you to assume that the dealer will always have a face card in their hand, as there are 12 face cards in an entire Blackjack deck. This equates to about 70% of the deck not being a face card or being an ace.
How Much to Wager
You can bet virtually as little or as much as you want to when enjoying a round of Blackjack. It is important to understand the wager limit at the table you arrive at, and you should always make sure that the starting bet fits within your financial means. You can make significant money at a Blackjack table though as the dealers are very fast and in as little as 30 minutes, you can play upwards of 50 rounds. Some tables allow you to put in as little as $5 to allow you to win hundreds of dollars if you are the closest to 21. There are even $1 tables though if you are not looking to play Blackjack strategically or competitively where you can win as much as $50. It really is dependent upon your personal budget and your needs.
Tips for Playing Blackjack Successfully
After reading through this guide, you may think that Blackjack is an overly simple game that does not take much skill. It is a great game for beginners, but there are more skills needed to be truly successful. Consider using the tips below to improve your skills.
1. Avoid Insurance
The first tip you should take is to avoid the insurance strategy at all costs. The dealer will always have the advantage when you are playing an insurance strategy. If you do happen to “win”, it will only be a tie meaning that you will just receive the money you put in.
2. Pay Attention to the Dealer
The next tip that you should follow is always to pay attention to the dealer’s hand. You will only see the up card, but this can make the difference. If it is low, consider going for a hit, for instance.
3. Avoid the Seat in First Base
The first base seat is the worst seat to sit in for a round of Blackjack. In this seat, you have to be the first to make a decision and can be the first to bust. If you are further down the table, you can review others’ decisions and your own hands.
4. Start with Small Bets
You should always try to start betting small. This will give you a feel for the dealer and for the others at your table.
5. Ignore the Other Players
The other players may try to talk to you and strategize against you. Ignore their statements and focus on the dealer. That is ultimately who you want to win against when playing the game of Blackjack. Often, those who are experts in the game are those who try to make you lose.
6. Stop When Warranted
Finally, you should know your limits of how much you can feasibly bet. If you continue losing while placing bets, you are going to lose out on so much of your money. Do not blow your cash for low amounts of money or free deals.
Final Thoughts
Blackjack is an easy game to learn that takes strategy to play correctly. Use this guide above to help you the next time you show up to a Blackjack table in order to come out on top.