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Blackjack is a popular game at both brick-and-mortar and online casinos. Is it luck or skill that helps you to win at blackjack? The game aims to beat the dealer’s hand, and it’s undeniable that luck can play a part in this. You don’t know what cards you will receive from the dealer. If you don’t get good cards, you will have to use more strategy if you hope to win. If you’re lucky with your cards and play skillfully, you have a very good chance of winning over the long term.
A basic blackjack strategy
A basic blackjack strategy is a mathematically proven way to play each hand based on your cards and the dealer’s face card. If you use a basic blackjack strategy, you can reduce the house edge to 0.50%. Without using basic strategy, you can raise the house edge instead of reducing it.
When playing regulated online blackjack in the US, your decisions can reduce the house edge. Many online casinos also have bonus offers that can increase your chances of winning. Understanding the odds and playing strategically can make all the difference when playing blackjack online.
Some players use strategies and count cards to help them reduce the house edge at land-based casinos. This isn’t allowed at most online casinos.
Practice counts
There are many strategies for playing each hand optimally. If you don’t understand the rules and don’t use any strategies, the dealer is likely to beat you. Fortunately, it is convenient to be able to play online blackjack, which gives you the chance to improve your skills. Practicing blackjack can even help to relieve stress if you want to work on your mental health.
More skill-based than some other casino games
Blackjack may not offer the same level of control as poker, but it is more skill-based than games like slots or roulette. You may not be able to control the shuffle, but you can control your bankroll and your decisions. In the short term, there’s no doubt that luck plays a role. However, as you build mental prowess through playing strategically, you can gain an edge over the long term that helps you beat the dealer. While a dash of luck can help, it’s your skills that can make the real difference.
Some basic tips to get you started
If the dealer’s upcard is between 2 and 6 and your total hand value is 12 through 16 (not including pairs), you should stand. This means you can take advantage of the likelihood of the dealer busting when they have a weak upcard.
When the dealer has a strong upcard of a 7 through to an Ace, it’s advisable to hit if you have a hand value from 12 through 16 (not including pairs). This accounts for the greater likelihood of the dealer having a strong hand and helps you improve your hand.
If you receive a pair of Aces or of 8s, you should split them into two separate hands. Splitting aces gives you the chance of starting two hands with a value of 11, which increases your opportunity of winning. When you split 8s, you avoid a weak hand of 16, which can make it challenging to win.
When your first two cards add up to 11 and the dealer’s upcard is between 2 and 10, it’s advisable to double down. By doubling your bet, you receive one more card, and your strong hand can become even better.
