Although it’s not entirely clear, many historians believe the first round of blackjack was played by the ancient Romans. Fast-forward several generations, and blackjack has turned from an enjoyable game of chance to a multi-billion-dollar enterprise. No matter if you’re a casual online gamer or a hardcore professional, many still fall victim to some common and entirely avoidable blackjack mistakes. You could rely on lady luck’s elusive grace, or instead learn how to steer clear of these all-too universal blackjack faux-pas.
Ignorance Most Certainly Isn’t Bliss
Before you hop onto the uncomfortable red pleather seat or order your first cocktail, learn blackjack rules followed by the particular state or casino. For instance, the state of New Jersey dictates that every table in the casino, including those found throughout Atlantic City, must operate by the same set of rules. Unfortunately, this same guideline doesn’t apply in every state or with online casinos. There are subtle variations that can mean the difference between winning the hand and walking away a loser. For instance, some tables allow the dealer and players to draw on a soft 17, while others require everyone to hold. If you’re not sure, ask a fellow player or the casino staff before placing what could be a doomed bet.
Relying on a “Feeling”
Many gamblers swear by the importance of watching for subtle tells or using your gut to determine how to play a hand of poker. This is often a way to get ahead in that particular game. However, blackjack is a completely different game in many respects, the most critical being the player’s need to depend on strategy and formulas instead of instincts. Learn the rules of the game, study past player’s winning strategies and follow what you’ve learned to the letter instead of relying on your faulty sixth sense.
Learn About the Value of Doubling Down
In an effort to keep their chips or bankroll high, many players shy away from doubling down. Here’s a scenario you’ll probably encounter that effectively shows you why this is a horrible idea. Let’s say you’re holding a 13 (10 and three) and the dealer is showing a five. The only cards that will cause you to bust are a nine, 10 or face card; meaning you’re chances of winning are pretty high. This coupled with the likelihood the dealer will either hit a soft 17 or bust makes doubling down a no-brainer. The next time you’re faced with this opportunity, take a chance and go for the bigger win.
Betting Higher to Cover Your Losses
You’re on a disastrous losing streak, and as you watch your bankroll plummet, you decide to raise your bet to cover those losses. Instead of potentially losing your money twice or three times as fast, continue to bet conservatively and don’t let your feelings or anxiety dictate how much you plunk down on the table. If you’re luck begins to change, and you can afford to do so, go ahead and up your bet, but learn that it’s okay to walk away from what you perceive to be a hot table if you’re in the black.
An “Even Money” Strategy
A bad idea by any name is still a very bad idea, and in the case of blackjack, this strategy is called purchasing insurance or even money. Basically, purchasing insurance is a way for the player to walk away with his bet in the event a dealer’s ace yields a blackjack. In the extremely rare event of this turnout, maybe the insurance was a good idea. However, chances are your insurance has instead just cost you the 3-2 blackjack bonus you would have won for laying down an Ace and face card. So when it comes to insurance, follow a very simple rule: Say “no.”
When you’re ready to tempt lady luck, look no further than the fun that awaits you in the exciting world of online gambling. Remember to check the blackjack rules, always use a formula, think twice before taking insurance and when in doubt, walk away and keep your money for another day of fun online gambling.
6/1/2013, 8:10 pm