Blackjack Myths and Tips

Despite the fact that Blackjack is one of the most popular games at real casinos and online casinos there are several myths associated with the games. By exploring each of these in detail we try to debunk these unfounded notions.

1. Blackjack is totally a game dependent on luck

Most of the players carry an opinion that Blackjack is a game which can be won only by luck. But that real fact is that Blackjack is a game winnable by employing skill and a basic strategy. Mastering the card counting technique will ensure players have a mathematical advantage over the casino. A good understanding of the strategy will also improve the odds of the players winning.

2. A photographic memory is required to read cards

This is another myth propagated through some movies as well as unskilled players. However, the fact of the matter is that card counting is simple math which requires a good amount of practice and not memorization. Blackjack rules and the basic strategy are easy to learn thereby giving a fair chance of winning to players using them.

3. The objective of the game is to get a value close to 21

While it is true that the participants who get a value of 21 are the winning players in the Blackjack game, this not the sole objective of the game. Actually, the point is to get a hand value more than the dealer and not busting before the dealer does.

4. A higher Bankroll is needed for winning

This is another among the common misconceptions related to the Blackjack game, where it is thought that Blackjack can only be won with a big budget. However, in practice players can adjust their choice of tables according to the budget they have. Though it is possible to win large sums with a bigger bankroll, they can also be depleted equally swiftly.

5. Card Counting is illegal

Using skills to keep track of the cards, in a Blackjack game is certainly not illegal as the common myth goes. This actually works as an effective strategy to lower the house edge of the Blackjack game and increase the chances of winning for players.

6. Always Assume that the Dealer has a 10 in the Hole

As there are 16 cards out of 52 in a standard deck that has a value of 10, players generally tend to think that the dealer has a 10 in the hole. This could lead players to costly playing mistakes because the probability of a card other than 10 is higher.

7. Take Insurance always

Insurance bets actually increase the house advantage and hence it is advisable to avoid them. Insurance can be taken when the dealer is showing an Ace and it pays 2 to 1. This type of winning cuts the winnings of players and turns out to be unprofitable in the long run.

8. A ‘hot’ or ‘cold’ dealer will help in winning

Though it is easy to tell if the dealer is hot or cold right the minute, it would not be possible to predict whether or not she will be hot or cold in the future. Counting on the dealer is not exactly logical and it is best to focus on the basic strategy and skill.

9. The house-edge of Blackjack is always low

The truth about the house advantage of blackjack is that it is low when favourable rules are in place and players use appropriate strategy.

10. Bad players can dent chances of winning

It is a quite widespread belief that the bad players at a Blackjack table affect the chances of winning. However, In reality, bad players have no real effect on the outcome of the game.