How to Beat the Dealer in Blackjack?

Mastering Online Blackjack: A Guide for Kiwis

Want to enhance your online blackjack skills and increase your chances of beating the dealer? Dive into this comprehensive guide. Here, we unpack the mysteries of one of New Zealand's favourite casino games.

Understanding Online Blackjack

Online blackjack isn't just a game of chance, like slots. It offers more control and a strategic edge. You're not battling fellow players; you're taking on the dealer. So, to boost your winning odds:

• Grasp the basics: Your primary aim is to achieve a hand value closest to 21 without exceeding it. A total card value of 21 means a Blackjack, rewarding you with a 1.5x return.
• Know your cards: Aces can be either 1 or 11. Face cards (King, Queen, Jack) are valued at 10. If you exceed 21, you bust, and the dealer wins.
• Decide wisely: Your main moves are to ‘hit' (request another card) or ‘stand' (stick with your current hand).

Popular Blackjack Variants in NZ

Different game versions can influence your winning strategies:

1. Standard Blackjack: Uses up to 8 decks. The dealer keeps one card face down. You have the standard ‘hit' and ‘stand' choices, with side bets varying by the game provider.
2. Vegas Strip: Primarily found online, this version mandates the dealer to stand on all soft 17s. This can benefit the player as the dealer can't further improve their hand.
3. Blackjack Super 21: Offers an enhanced 2 to 1 payout for a natural Blackjack. It uses a single deck, and you can ‘split', ‘hit', ‘stand', or ‘double' anytime.
4. Atlantic City Blackjack: Unique for its dealer peaking rule and side options. The dealer must stand on soft 17s but can check their face-down card. Side options include ‘surrender' and ‘insurance'.

Tips to Tilt the Odds in Your Favour

• Pick games where dealers stand on soft 17s: This stops the dealer from enhancing their hand, helping you predict their move better. Top providers offering this include NetEnt, Evolution Gaming, and Playtech.
• Consider side bets: They can sometimes save or boost your stake. For instance:
  • Insurance: Opt for it when the dealer has an ace. It involves staking half of your original bet.
  • Split: Can be useful, but remember each split hand is treated individually.
  • Surrender: Useful if you believe the dealer has a Blackjack.

Remember, while strategy can enhance your chances, blackjack is still fundamentally a game of luck. So, always gamble responsibly. Set limits, avoid chasing losses, and most importantly, enjoy the experience.

Summary

Online blackjack offers New Zealanders an exciting blend of luck and strategy. By understanding the game's nuances and choosing the right variant, you can tilt the odds in your favour. While no strategy guarantees a win, being informed certainly boosts your chances.

FAQ

1. Why is the dealer standing on soft 17 beneficial? When the dealer stands on soft 17, they can't improve their hand further, giving you a clearer idea of what hand value to aim for.

2. Are side bets worth the risk in online blackjack? Side bets can be a strategic move, but they come with risks. It's essential to understand when and how to use them to your advantage.

3. Which blackjack variant offers the best odds for players? While all blackjack variants have their unique rules, games like Blackjack Super 21, where the dealer stands on soft 17, can offer players slightly better odds.