Online Blackjack Strategy

Blackjack stands alone in the casino as the game where players have a real chance to put their talent to the test. Unlike a slot machine or a Roulette wheel, a blackjack table allows players to realistically improve their chances. At the same time, uneducated players can easily blow any chance they have by making poor decisions. The fact that you are not necessarily at a large disadvantage is probably blackjack’s biggest selling point – but it also means that you need to have some understanding of blackjack strategy before you put any f your money on the line.

The Fundamentals

At a blackjack table with a limited number of cards, you can see your two cards as well as one of the dealer’s. At a table where the house is dealing from a shoe (a shoe contains six to eight card decks) you will also be able to see all of the other players’ cards. This is an important distinction for card counters, but in terms of basic strategy, this is unimportant, and you can feel free to ignore the cards belonging to other players. All we are worried about is the odds of beating the dealer.

Based on your hand, it is pretty easy to determine the likelihood of busting (going over 21) when hitting assuming that you are playing with a fair deck. The fact that one of the dealer’s cards is facing down, however, adds a degree of mystery. Based on the one card we can see, we have to make inferences with regards to the house’s chances of busting. Instead of going into the mathematical details (which are quite technical), we will just recommend that you take advantage of a strategy chart. This is a simple grid that tells you exactly how to play any given hand, depending on what the dealer is showing. If you follow this exactly, you can reduce the house’s edge to a tiny 0.5%.

Protect Your Bankroll

No matter how closely you follow the basic strategy, you will have hot streaks and cold streaks. Keep your bet size down to a reasonable size so that when you catch a string a cold cards, you will be able to weather the storm. This is particularly important when you are starting out because you will probably be making some mistakes, and playing poorly is a great way to invite a losing streak. In fact, when you are still learning the game, it may be wise to start by playing for free.

Essentially all online casinos have an option to play with “fun money”. The rules are exactly the same, but there is no risk. Take as long as you need to feel comfortable with the optimum basic strategy. In time, it should actually become second nature! When that happens, you will be ready to put your money out there and see what you can do. Remember though, no matter how well you play, the house still has a slight advantage. To win big, you are still relying on luck to a small degree.