Online blackjack strategy is no different to that of the strategy that should be used when playing this classic casino table game in a land based casino. The main difference when playing online is that you will find many more variations available, however when playing standard rules Vegas style blackjack then the house advantage, and therefore your chances of winning are exactly the same either online or offline.
Playing optimal blackjack strategy is not difficult and it is the only way to keep the house edge down as low as possible, although it is impossible to totally eliminate it. Always keep in mind that the dealers up-card, or the card that the dealer is showing, is just as important as your own hand, and it plays just as big a part in what decision you should make as your own cards do.
Basic Strategy Tips
By using a few simple and easy to remember things you can reduce the house advantage, and when you hit a hot streak, which every player does at some stage, it’s time to take advantage of the fact that you have more money than you started with and walk away. Should the dealer be showing a 9 or better than you will need to keep taking cards until you hit 17 or more. The chances of busting are high, but the chances that you will win with anything less are very slim indeed. When the dealer is showing anything between a 3 and a 6, then it means you are in a very strong position. This gives you the option to stand on anything over 12, and should you have between 9 and 11 you may even take the option of doubling down. The dealers cards are poor and they will have to take at least two cards, which means that there is a very good chance of the dealer busting out and giving you the win.
Basic strategy states that you should always split aces and 8’s and while some players dislike doing it, it is mathematically sound to do so, and this should be done no matter what card the dealer is showing.
Blackjack Variations and Strategy
You should always seek out a variation of blackjack that has rules in your favor, and this means taking a look at a few online casinos and seeing what’s on offer. You will want to make 100% sure that the house pays the correct 3:2 on hands where you hit blackjack. This sounds standard, but you will be surprised to find that some casinos will pay less. Another rule to look out for is making sure that the dealer has to stand on soft 17. In games where the dealer takes a card on this, the house edge is bigger, and while only bigger by a fraction of a percent, over time this makes a huge difference to your blackjack bankroll.