Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games, known for its mix of chance and skill. One way players try to improve their chances is by using something called "basic strategy".
Blackjack basic strategy is a set of rules that tells you the statistically best move to make in any situation. It looks at your cards and the dealer's visible card (upcard) to give you the statistically best decision to make in the current circumstance. Whether it's best to hit, stand, double down or split, basic strategy guides you towards making choices that are statistically more sound than those made blindly.
But does it actually work? In this blog post, we'll explore whether following basic strategy can truly give you an edge in blackjack. Let's find out together.
Can You Win Blackjack With Basic Strategy?
Using basic strategy doesn't mean you'll win every hand of blackjack; since there is an element of chance, nothing can guarantee wins. It simply helps you make the best possible decision based on the cards in play, statistically speaking.
The strategy is built on mathematical calculations. These calculations determine the best actions to take based on your hand and the dealer's upcard. This can reduce the house edge compared to playing without any strategy.
For example, if you have a hand totalling 12 and the dealer is showing a 3, basic strategy tells you to hit. This decision is based on the likelihood that the dealer can safely hit for a higher total, which means you likely need a higher total than 12 before standing.
That said, even with the perfect implementation of this strategy, you won't win every time because blackjack still involves an element of chance. It's about making decisions that are statistically advantageous, given the available information.
In short, while basic strategy can help you make smarter moves and potentially lower the house edge, it doesn't eliminate it entirely or guarantee a win. It's a tool to help players make more statistically advantageous decisions compared to playing without any strategy.
Remember, it's essential to always gamble responsibly and only play with money you can afford to lose.
Does Blackjack Basic Strategy Work Online?
Using basic strategy in online blackjack works just as well as in a physical casino. The principles remain the same, as you're still making decisions based on mathematical probabilities.
Online blackjack games use a Random Number Generator (RNG) that emulates frequent shuffling of the deck and random draws of cards. This randomness is similar to a real deck being shuffled, ensuring fairness.
Your decisions based on basic strategy are unaffected by whether you're playing online or in person because the decisions are made based on your hand's total and the dealer's upcard, and the way they are shuffled and drawn makes no difference to this information.
If playing online, you might find it easier to follow basic strategy. You can keep a strategy chart handy or take your time a bit more since there may not be other players waiting for you to finish your turn. This convenience allows you to make the best possible choices without feeling rushed.
However, remember that even the best strategy can't fully eliminate the house edge and remove the inherent element of chance involved in the game. It's important to accept that winning is never guaranteed and to play within your means.
In summary, using basic strategy is equally effective in online blackjack as it is in an in-person blackjack game.
How Quickly Can You Learn Basic Strategy?
Learning basic strategy for blackjack is relatively straightforward, and you can pick it up quite quickly.
Charts depicting the strategy can easily be found. They outline the statistically best moves to make depending on your hand and the dealer's upcard. At first, it may seem a bit complex, but you don't need to memorise it all at once.
Start with the basics. Focus on learning a few key rules. For example, always stand if your hand totals 17. Or, always hit if your hand has a hard total of 8 or less. These simple rules can give you a solid foundation.
Many players find it helpful to practise with the chart in front of them. You can do this while playing online or with a deck of cards at home. Over time, the moves become more familiar and second nature.
There are also apps and online resources that can help you practise. These tools can make learning faster and more enjoyable.
In summary, you can start using basic strategy in a matter of hours. Learning it fluently simply takes time and practice, but in the meantime, it's important to note that there is no rule against having a basic strategy chart with you while you play. However you choose to play, please do so responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.