There is enough game to play with cards. Some play by chance, hoping for a good hand without caring too much about strategy. But suppose that chance does not smile in your favor and yet you want to win? That's when theoretical understanding and solidly established methods—like successful blackjack tactics—come into play. In any event, numerous players have dealt with the same issues. Everything has already been researched and conclusions have already been drawn.
We bring to you today an introduction to some of the best blackjack strategies. You can choose one depending on your style or move between one and another.
Basic Strategy
The biggest fear for blackjack players is busting. If you receive a 12-point hand, for instance, you may wonder whether you should hit or stand. If you receive a 10, you bust. This is why some players prefer to stand. Even though this play-it-safe approach does reduce your chances of winning by about 4%.
There is a JavaScript chart that shows the hand value you have against the dealer's upcard. Based on your cards' value, you should:
- Hit (Take another card)
- Double Down (Double the bet)
- Pass the turn (Stand)
- Split your cards
- Surrender
The power of this approach is that it uses all probabilities, hence giving you as much chance as the house.
Doubling Method
This technique is borrowed from roulette, where it is known as the Martingale Strategy. Its basis is simple: use double your bet after every loss, and after every win, use the initial amount.
To use this technique, you will require:
- The unlimited capacity to wager,
- A large bankroll,
- And nerves of steel.
The first two can be found on luckforfree.com. The third is your choice.
In blackjack, the Martingale system will be particularly efficient. Even when you lose one after another three times and win just once, you will still end up as winners.
We recommend using this system in Single Deck Blackjack or Single Deck Euro Blackjack, where card counting is easier. In six-deck games, it is not so practical.
The simplicity of this system is to assign values to all the cards:
- 2 to 6 = +1
- 7 to 9 = 0
- 10, face cards, and Aces = -1
You just go along with the running count. Play if it's a positive number. Don't risk it if it's a negative number.
It is very easy and beginners can also use it, hence the popularity of the system.
Card Values
Before playing a blackjack game, knowing what a winning hand is, i.e., the value of the cards, is essential. 6 to 8 packs of 52 cards are normally combined and shuffled to be played with.
Cards 2 to 9 are valued at face value. Cards 10, Jack, Queen, and King are valued at 10 points. The Aces are valued at either 11 or 1 point. The player has the choice of valuing their hand as best. If an Ace is valued at 11 would make the total value of the hand more than 21, it is valued at 1.
Using Blackjack Charts
Mathematical strategy works best when playing with live dealers. If you’re playing free or real-money blackjack in software form, luck and intuition often play a larger role.
The strategy charts still used today were developed in 1962. These charts help players beat the dealer and other opponents by showing the best decision in every situation.
The chart displays pairs of hands for the player and the dealer's upcard. In the intersection of the rows and columns, the best thing to do in each position is stated. Abbreviations used:
- H – Hit (hit another card)
- S – Stand (give the turn to the dealer)
- D – Double down, or hit when doubling is not allowed
- Ds – Double down, or stand when doubling is not allowed
- P – Split
- H/P – Split and can hit or double
- H/R – Surrender, or hit if surrendering is not possible
- A – Ace is worth 1 or 11
You don't have to memorize the chart, but it's good to carry it with you. You can also try different tables to see what works best for you.
Conclusion
Blackjack is a favorite game that combines strategy and chance, wherein players aim to defeat the dealer by getting as near to 21 as possible without exceeding it. There are different strategies that can enhance your odds of winning—like card counting, basic strategy, and money management.
You need to familiarize yourself with the game rules and its many variations. The game rules differ slightly from casino to casino, so be sure to review the table rules in advance of playing.
