Today, the world of competitive and sanctioned online casinos continues to enjoy prosperity few thought was possible. Of course, there is no doubt that the caliber and diversity of casino games continue to be a successful calling card. Slot games continue to draw much of the headlines and the press, but with the continued surge in online Blackjack, things are quickly changing for the better. Call it Ving-et-un, 21, or plain own Blackjack; this article dives deep into the game with winning secrets to winning like a true boss.
Understanding Blackjack Mechanics
Before we jump knee-deep into expert tips, let’s take a moment to first understand the fundamentals and blackjack mechanics. The love affair for blackjack is mainly due to the fact that the essence of the game has changed through the centuries.
Unlike poker, blackjack players don’t compete against each other. Instead, they go against the dealer. That way, multiple players can win at once. This dynamic, plus the fact that most online blackjack games have more than generous RTP rates beginning at 99%, makes them a smash hit.
Without having the stress of bluffing, players can focus on the simplicity of trying to get a playing hand that’s 21. The other alternative is to have a playing hand that’s at least higher than the dealer. Each player participating receives two cards dealt one at a time and face face up.
In between the first and second dealt cards, the dealer deals himself one face-up card. This card is known as the “upcard.” The value of the upcard helps players decide to hit, stand, or more. It also opens the door to a potential insurance bet. After all the players have received their second card, the dealer deals himself one more card, but face down.
It’s important to note that some win real money online casinos support European Blackjack. In this variant, the dealer only deals with the second card after all the players have made their moves. If the player doesn’t have a natural blackjack, meaning the first two cards don’t add up to 21, they can “hit” or “stand.”
To hit means to draw an additional card. Players can hit as much as they want until they reach 21, or worse, go over 21. Each hit runs the risk of busting if the card value is more than eleven, so it’s important to use it with the right card counts.
Players can also decide to stand. To stand means to finish the playing round with the cards you have. While standing means you don’t have to bust, there is a danger of standing too soon. Because most blackjack variants require the dealer to stand on a “soft 17” or a playing hand greater than 17, the dealer must hit under these circumstances. Needless to say, the dealer can finish with a higher playing hand.
Pro Gametips
With the blackjack basics under your belt, it’s time to explore some pro blackjack tips. Below are some tips to help you take your blackjack game to the next level:
- Consider the RTP – For the most part, most online blackjack games begin with an RTP of 99% or higher. However, with some variants like Gravity Blackjack, the RTP might be lower because of the side bets and other features. For beginners, sticking with Classic or American Blackjack is a wise move.
- Be Careful of Side Bets – Believe it or not, many of today’s online blackjack variants support side bets. The most common are the insurance bet, Lucky Ladies, and Royal Match. These side bets have greater house edges and might cost you to lose more if you don’t hit.
- Practice Often – Fortunately, online Blackjack makes it possible to play demo rounds. Another option is practicing at social gaming sites because they support free casino games.
- Consider Doubling Down – Most blackjack games support “doubling down.” Doubling down is to draw one final card in the playing round. However, you have to match your initial bet. In other words, it’s all or nothing.
With the right card value, you can possibly win double your bet, or you might bust. Similar to standing with a low playing hand, if you double down with a low playing hand, like eleven or less, you might have to sit and watch the dealer win while you suffer double the losses.
Wrapping Up the Blackjack Secrets
Online Blackjack continues to evolve as technology does. With AI more in the mix, new variants, especially for live dealer play, are popping up. One final tip to shock the show is to always split on aces. With split aces, you can’t bust with the next drawn card. Also, you’re in prime position to win two playing hands, especially with Blackjack.