Blackjack is a really simple card game, but that doesn’t mean that you should play it without a strategy. Having the right system in place will make the game more exciting as well as raising your chances of winning. What strategies should you consider using?
Follow a Good Basic Strategy
A basic blackjack strategy is what tells you when to hit and when to stand. Playing for real money without understanding these basics isn’t recommended. The return to player (RTP) figures quoted on blackjack games in casinos are based on players using a perfect strategy.
This isn’t as difficult as it might appear to be. The first step is to look for blackjack strategy charts, which you will find easily online. You can then consult the charts, to work out what action to take on each hand that is dealt.
Most experts will tell you that you should never take the insurance option at blackjack. Equally, side bets like perfect pairs offer you a lower chance of winning than the main game, although you might prefer to give it a try because of the extra excitement it generates and the possibility of a big payout.
Double Down on the Right Cards
Doubling down is one of the most thrilling moves in blackjack, as you double your stake but know that you will only get one more card dealt to you. This is something that you should only ever do when you feel confident of beating the dealer.
There are certain situations when you should always do this, like when you have a hard 10 or 11. However, if the dealer is showing a face card, 10, or an ace it might put some doubt into your mind.
In other cases, it depends what card the dealer is showing. If they have 9 or lower and you have 10 then you should double down on it. Another situation when you will want to do this is when you have a hard 9 and the dealer is showing between 2 and 9.
Know When to Split Your Hands
Splitting your first two cards into a couple of separate hands can be incredibly effective, or it can prove to be a big mistake. In the best instance, it can turn a troublesome hand into two strong hands. Perhaps the best example is when you get a pair of 8s, as 16 is a really tough hand but two hands of 8 are a lot more promising.
It is easy to see why you should split out two aces as well, as this gives you a couple of opportunities of aiming for 21 with the help of the game’s most powerful card. In fact, not all games will let you split aces, because it gives you such a big advantage if you do this.
Learn how to play 21+3 blackjack here, the most popular side bet in blackjack.
Manage Your Bankroll Well
The last strategy to be aware of doesn’t have to do with when you hit or stand. Instead, it is just about managing your bankroll cleverly. This means that you will make your funds last longer, and give yourself more opportunities to make a profit.
Blackjack online tables give you a chance to start with small stakes, although you could also head to a VIP table if you want to make bigger wagers. You could stick to a flat betting system where you always bet the same amount or try a progressive betting strategy where your bet is increased or decreased each time.
Whatever approach you choose, you will want to make sure that you feel in control at all times and that you aren’t risking money that you can’t afford to lose.
