Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games around the world. It’s also known as “21” because the goal of the game is to have a hand that’s worth 21 points or as close to 21 as possible, without going over. The game is typically played with one or more decks of cards and can be played by multiple players or just one player against the dealer. While the game may seem simple, there are strategies and secrets that can help you increase your chances of winning at the table. In this article, we’ll explore some of these strategies and secrets.
Basic Strategy
The first thing you need to know about blackjack is basic strategy. Basic strategy is a set of rules that determines the best way to play your hand based on the dealer’s upcard. It’s important to note that basic strategy won’t guarantee you a win every time, but it will help you make the best decisions in every situation. Here are some basic strategy rules:
- If your hand is worth 8 or less, always hit.
- If your hand is worth 17 or more, always stand.
- If the dealer’s upcard is 2-6, stand if your hand is worth 12 or more. Hit if your hand is worth less than 12.
- If the dealer’s upcard is 7-Ace, hit if your hand is worth 16 or less. Stand if your hand is worth 17 or more.
Card Counting
Card counting is a strategy that involves keeping track of the cards that have been dealt in order to determine the likelihood of certain cards being dealt in future rounds. While card counting is not illegal, it is frowned upon by casinos and can get you banned if you’re caught. Here’s how card counting works:
- Assign a point value to each card: 2-6 = +1, 7-9 = 0, 10-Ace = -1
- As each card is dealt, add or subtract its point value to a running count.
- When the count is positive, there are more high cards left in the deck, which is favorable to the player.
- When the count is negative, there are more low cards left in the deck, which is favorable to the dealer.
- Use the count to adjust your bet size or make playing decisions.
Other Tips and Tricks
Aside from basic strategy and card counting, there are a few other tips and tricks that can help you win at blackjack:
- Always split Aces and 8s.
- Never split 10s or face cards.
- If the dealer’s upcard is an Ace, consider taking insurance if you have a blackjack.
- Don’t take insurance in any other situation.
- Avoid side bets, as they typically have a higher house edge.
Overall, winning at blackjack requires a combination of luck and skill. While there are no guarantees, following basic strategy, learning how to count cards, and implementing other tips and tricks can help increase your chances of walking away from the table a winner.
