By Marry Marvel.

Blackjack is easy to learn and fun to play, making it one of the most popular card games worldwide. There is no guaranteed formula to play the game and win every time because, let’s face it, the house has to win, too.

However, there are strategies you can use in the game to maximize your wins and minimize your losses. Let’s look at some of the best ways to play the world’s favorite card game.¹⁾EDITOR NOTE: The goal for most blackjack players is to beat the dealer.  However, I will admit that some players just want to have fun.  But you can still have fun while minimizing losses and potentially walk away a winner by following these simple strategies.

Use Different Strategies Between Live Dealer and Online Blackjack

Live dealer online blackjack mimics a real-life casino, meaning there is a physical table and a real-life dealer that can be accessed by online players. Cards are dealt from a 6- or 8-deck shoe, and players use digital chips to bet. They can click to hit, double down, split, or stand. Usually, there is a chat forum where players can interact with one another and the dealer during the live games.

On the other hand, online blackjack featuring RNGs (Random Number Generators) emulate the probability element of blackjack in real life. As a player, you’re playing with a virtual dealer who shuffles the deck or decks in a shoe between each hand. Playing in these games is the same as always playing the first hand out of a deck or shoe.  Thus, card counting is impossible.

Familiarize with the Basic Strategy

Basic strategy is the brainchild of four Army mathematicians in the 1950s who spent thousands of hours calculating the correct play (on desk calculators) for every possible hand situation in blackjack. The experiment proved that it was actually possible to give the player a small statistical advantage in the single deck game of the time.  In today’s multi-deck games, blackjack basic strategy can reduce the house edge to about 0.5% or so — which is lower than most other casino games.

Luckily for you, there are charts with these moves, and familiarizing yourself with them will give you an upper hand more often than not. You can easily boost your winnings and reduce your losses.

Loyalty Schemes are a Lifesaver

Online casinos are known to offer goodies to regular and new customers in the form of bonuses to ensure you always come back. You can use these loyalty programs to practice and become even better in the game.  However, always be sure to read the requirements for bonuses.

Newbies Should Stick to a Single Game Variation and Start with Demo Games

Let’s face it: if you’re a newbie and dipping your toes in every variation of blackjack, you’ll end up losing your money. It’s the equivalent of being a jack of all trades yet a master of none. Newbies are advised to first stick to the four major versions of online blackjack which is European Blackjack, Classic Blackjack, Bonus Bet Blackjack, and Blackjack Switch. Once you catch the drift, you can start diverting into other variations of the game.

Most online casinos also have demos where you can play without real money while you understand the tenets of the game. Use these demos to hone your craft before immersing yourself in the real game. You can also visit review sites such as casinojungle.com for a lowdown on how to play blackjack online.

Avoid Live Dealers with Continuous Shuffling Machines

There are live blackjack dealers who utilize CSMs (Continuous Shuffling Machines) after every few rounds. The machines are capable of shuffling 3-5 decks concurrently, rendering it impossible for players to count cards. If you do play, it is advisable to try out games with automatic shuffle machines that shuffle the cards after three-quarters of the shoe (or more) have been played or where the dealer shuffles the cards. This will give you a better chance of winning the game if you are attempting to track the cards.

Insurance Bets are Not Worth it

The insurance bet is a side bet in the game with a huge house edge (about 6-7.5%) attached to them, making them very unattractive to players.  Online casinos are aware of inexperienced blackjack players’ tendency to love side bets, so when it’s offered, just ignore it.²⁾EDITOR NOTE: Of course, unless you are counting cards.  Insurance is the most profitable play variation opportunity if the count is high enough.  Of course, not all games are worth counting including most online games.

Set and Adhere to Wagering Limits

It doesn’t matter whether you are a pro or a beginner; setting and adhering to wagering limits is an underrated skill. You need to have an idea of how you’re going to stretch your bankroll. How long are you going to play? How much are you willing to spend? What is the number of hands the table is playing per hour?  These are the questions you need to ask yourself before starting the game.

Remember, moderation is crucial in this game. Therefore, staying within your bankroll wagering limits will immensely benefit you in the present and the future.

Know When to Quit or Surrender

A good dancer knows when to exit the stage. The same was proven in blackjack by a study that shows that around 75% of people are winning in the game at one point, but only 5% will take a prize home. If you’re keen enough and use the best strategies, you can be one of the 5% and be a regular winner.

One option in some casinos is the ability to surrender your hand and receive half your bet back.  Two variations of the rule exist: early and late surrender. Early surrender is rare but a much better choice. If your hand has a high chance of losing, the best option is to surrender.  Check the basic strategy chart for specific advice.

In addition, always look for games with the best rules and conditions.  Look for games where blackjacks pay 3 to 2 (not 6 to 5), double on any two cards is permitted, double after splitting is allowed, dealer stands on soft-17, and surrender is allowed.

If you stick to these rules and become ultra-focused during the games, your chances of success will increase and your enjoyment of the game will improve.

IMAGE CREDIT: Danny Byl

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