Blackjack is a hugely popular game that has stood the test of time. It’s quick to learn and requires both skill and strategy, making it an equally exciting option for new players and seasoned veterans of the casino.
People have been playing blackjack for centuries – since the early 18th century in France – and it continues to attract a large number of players in both land-based and online casinos. These days significantly more players are attracted to the streamlined, fuss-free online services of reputable providers like Casino777 than are regularly attending brick and mortar casinos.
One of the main draws for playing blackjack is the possibility of winning big. With a little bit of luck, a good understanding of the game’s rules and a solid strategy, players can turn a small bet into a huge return. If you’re looking to improve your blackjack game and increase your chances of a big payout, here are some key tips to keep in mind:
Understand the Basics of the Game
Before you start your blackjack session, make sure you’re familiar with the basics of the game. This includes the rules, the objective of the game and the value that each card holds.
The goal of blackjack is to try and get as close to 21 as possible with your cards without going over. Each card is worth its face value, except for face cards (king, queen and jack) – which are each worth 10 – and aces – which can be worth 1 or 11 depending on the player’s preference.
Each player’s hand is pitted against that of the dealer, which makes the camaraderie around the blackjack table second to none. Players aren’t competing against one another but rather they’re all playing against the house.
The dealer also receives two cards to themselves, one of which is dealt face up, the upcard. The upcard gives players an indication of how strong the dealer’s hand is and is crucial to a strong strategy.
Use Basic Strategy
Basic blackjack strategy is a set of predefined decisions that dictate the best possible move in each situation based on the player’s hand and the dealer’s upcard. It’s a mathematically proven and sound strategy that can help players make optimal decisions.
Basic strategy can reduce the house edge to as little as 0.5%, giving players a better chance of winning and subsequently walking away in profit.
Avoid Insurance Bets
You may have noticed, printed on each blackjack table, the words ‘Insurance pays 2 to 1’. Insurance bets are side bets that players can make when the dealer’s upcard is an ace.
The bet pays out 2 to 1 if the dealer hits a blackjack but it’s not a good bet in the long run. The house edge on insurance bets is around 7.5%, which is significantly higher than the house edge on the main bet so avoiding placing insurance bets will help save you money over the course of a long session.
Manage Your Bankroll
Managing your bankroll is crucial when playing blackjack if you want to be able to enjoy this great game regularly. Set a budget for yourself before you start playing and stick to it.
Never chase your losses and don’t bet more than you can afford to lose. Your lower limit should equate to what you’d be comfortable paying for in exchange for the blackjack experience – this way you never feel like you’ve wasted your time.
It’s also a good idea to set a win limit so you know when to stop playing and cash out. A squandered win can sting just as much as an outright loss.
Play Sober
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of playing blackjack, especially when you’re winning. However, it’s important to remember that alcohol can impair your judgment and affect your decision-making abilities.
Drinking and playing simultaneously, can lead to poor decisions and, ultimately, losses. So, if you’re going to drink, try to hold off celebrating until after you’re done playing.
Online and Offline Blackjack
It’s easier to stay focused and ignore the distractions and temptations of a casino when playing online from the comfort of your own home. If you’re playing solely against the computer, you also have the added benefit of being able to dictate the pace of your own game.
Online blackjack is often preferred as it offers a wider range of game options to the player and lower minimum bets. The offline version, however, provides a uniquely immersive and social experience. Many online providers have begun including chat rooms in their lobbies to create a stronger sense of community among players.
Playing online also allows users to take advantage of various strategies – including card counting – that are frowned upon in real world venues. Ultimately, the choice depends on the individual player’s preferences and playing style as well as their desire for convenience. Wherever you choose to play, know that you’re enjoying a 300 year old pastime that is enjoyed all around the world.
