How to Improve Your Blackjack Gameplay

Blackjack had to become my favourite title, and it became my goal to master it day after day.

13:10 22 April 2024

I remember fondly my first session with this wonderful game. It took about two minutes to understand the basic rules, and I had a strong feeling that this game might be the one I could master in a short timeframe. Add to this a small pinch of beginner’s luck, and I was sold. Blackjack had to become my favourite title, and it became my goal to master it day after day.

However, I understood very quickly that it is mainly an exercise of luck where strategy still strongly affects the outcome. Reaching 21 points - or getting close to it - is not always down to you. You can only anticipate the dealer’s hand according to yours and repeat this process until you win!

This article does not suggest a miracle method or even a get-rich-quick scheme. Let’s run down the many ways you can become a better player. When push comes down to shelves, all you have at your disposal is strategy, bankroll management, and a clear view of your emotions so you don’t leave the table a poorer person than you were before. Let’s start, shall we?

Master the Blackjack Probability Chart

It’s pretty much the same goal for every gambler out there, whether they play online or at the table of a prestigious Las Vegas casino. You have to beat the dealer by approaching 21, the highest number of points. Do less than this, and the dealer might have the upper hand. Do more than this, and you’re bust.

If you need to pick an option to win more often than not, please choose an 

advanced blackjack strategy as described on this list :

• Natural Blackjack: what we call natural blackjack is when you’re dealt a hand worth 21 points at the beginning. It’s the best that can happen to you.
• Twenty points at the beginning: once again, you have a very strong chance to win, Hurray!
• Starting with eleven: Also an advantageous position. I enjoy starting with eleven, especially when the dealer has to start with a soft 17. I know it’s time to double down on my wager, then.
• Starting with 16 points: Ouch, this is the worst hand of the whole gameplay! I generally just hit when the dealer has a stronger hand than me. Especially if the dealer has an Ace in his hand.

The list of probabilities is long. That is why I always keep a blackjack probability chart in the back of my head. It has helped a tremendous amount over time, and I’m glad it’s freely available on the internet.

Try Different Versions

Right after my first session, I was very surprised to learn that there are so many versions available out there. If most online casinos propose the American version, please know that you should hone your craft with different variants such as European, Vega Strip, or even Blackjack Switch.

These variants might propose more or less the same techniques and strategies, but the probability of winning will be vastly different. In some versions, for example, the dealer is obligated to hit on soft 17. It’s a big advantage for us gamblers as it increases our chances of getting the upper hand more often.

It never hurts to change the flavour of your favourite dish once in a while. I found that it is the same with our favourite hobbies.

Play For Real and Play Online

This card outlet is widely available on online platforms, and you can exercise pretty much every day of the week at any moment. However, it’s a different sensation to play face-to-face against a dealer because it is more challenging than playing in the comfort of your couch.

Try to alternate playing online and gambling in a brick-and-mortar. It has done me a world of good. If you can’t afford to go to a gambling establishment, you might also try to invite a friend of yours for a wild gaming session, too.

Manage Your Emotions…and Your Bankroll

Wagering money on gaming titles always implies an element of surprise, joy or sheer disappointment. The old sport of 21 points is no exception because most of it is based on luck, and you can get lucky with strategy. I have dabbled in trading, too. The rules are pretty much the same when it comes to risk management.

Do you need an example? I find it useful not to put more than 5% of my total bankroll in one bet. Granted, this method doesn’t get you massive gains. However, I reckon it is safer to play this way so you don’t lose your entire pot too quickly. This, my friend, is something you can only learn with experience. I made this quite often before getting wiser.

Experts also recommend that you avoid insurance bets in the long run. An insurance bet is a side bet that the dealer offers you if his up card is an ace. It is very tempting to do so as the insurance offered interesting odds, to the tune of 2/1.