Blackjack is a card game that enables players to compete against other players in order to earn the highest hand value. The best possible hand is a natural 21 (also known as a blackjack), which is made up of an Ace and a King, Queen, or Jack. This hand has the value of 21 and is practically unbeatable. If the dealer also has a blackjack, the game is a tie or a push.

Basic playing strategy

One of the most popular card games at the casino is blackjack. Although the casino has a natural advantage, if you play your cards correctly you can reduce this advantage to less than 1%. In addition to basic strategy, you can also place side bets, such as Insurance or Even Money. In this guide, you will learn how to play the game and how to use color-coded charts and tables to make the most of your time.

Card counting

Card counting in blackjack is a mathematical strategy used to beat the house edge. It involves keeping track of both high and low cards and adjusting your bets to minimize the house’s advantage. By following this strategy, you will be able to make better decisions and minimize your losses.

Splitting

If you want to split your hands after a dealer has dealt you two pairs, you can do so. However, you should remember that this strategy is not always a winning move. Many factors play a role, such as the rank of the pair and the bet size.

Early surrender

Early surrender in blackjack can be advantageous in certain situations. This strategy can help you cut your losses if the dealer shows an Ace, or if your hand value is lower than the dealer’s. Moreover, it also provides you with a handy ‘get out clause’ if you get out of a losing hand.

Doubling after splitting

Doubling after splitting is an excellent strategy to improve your blackjack hand’s odds. It can be particularly useful when the dealer has a pair. However, you should always check your hand before doubling after splitting. It also has its disadvantages.

Side bets

Blackjack side bets are popular in both online and land-based casinos. These bets give players a chance to increase their winnings and spread them over fewer hands. However, while they can provide additional payouts, side bets also have a higher house edge than main hand bets. As a result, players should exercise caution when considering blackjack side bets.

House edge

The house edge of blackjack is an important statistic to consider when playing the game. It shows how much the casino is able to profit per dollar wagered, and it is also a good indication of what the average player can expect to lose. Another important statistic is the Return to Player (RTP), which is the amount paid out to winning players in relation to the money staked. In general, players should play games with lower house edges and higher RTPs. This will ensure they lose less on average during an hour of play.