If you are already familiar with the basics of online blackjack, you may be wondering whether there are any effective practices that will help you win more often.
We've put together a comprehensive list of basic online blackjack real money strategy rules that can make a significant difference to the blackjack outcomes you're hoping for.
A Winning Strategy
There is an important thing you have to understand when playing blackjack online real money. With all face cards (J, Q, and K) and a 10 counting as 10, every 52-card deck has 16 cards with the value of 10. For this reason, the best approach is to always assume that the dealer's down-face card (the hole card) is 10. While it's not foolproof, it helps you narrow down the dealer's best possible outcomes prior to his possibly needing to draw a card.
So the hand starts. You get your two face-up cards and the dealer gets one face-up card and one down-face card. Now, you need to assess the strength of the dealer's hand and make your move accordingly:
The Dealer's Hand Is Strong – If the dealer shows an 8, a 9, or a 10, then your best strategy is to assume they are sitting on a total of 18, 19, or 20. In this situation, you can make a bold move and ask for another card to try to reach 21. It's not a wise course of action for the player to double down in this case, and it's not recommended to split either because the player bets twice as much and still he/she could be behind.
The Dealer's Hand Is Weak – If the dealer shows a 3, a 4, a 5, or a 6, the player must assume that their total point score is 13, 14, 15, or 16. This means that the dealer will have to hit, in which case the probability of the dealer busting is quite high.
Your move in this case? Well, with any hard total starting hand of 12 or higher, why risk hitting? Stand and wait to see whether your predictions come true and the dealer busts.
Should your total be 11 or less, your chances of making a high hand are quite good, so doubling down might be a wise decision in this case. Even if you're sitting on a total of 8, we suggest doubling down here. If, according to your predictions, the dealer busts, you are paid twice as much as you might otherwise have been paid.
Never split two 10s and two 5s
With a total starting hand of 20, you will most likely win or tie, so splitting two 10s is not recommended. Then, if you have two 5s, we suggest doubling down and asking for another card.
On the other hand, splitting might be a wise course of action if you are sitting on a pair of 8s. This is because 16 is considered to be one of the most unfavourable hands possible. So, the best approach in this situation is to split, in which case you increase your chances of winning and making a profit.
Never Play Side Bets
Blackjack side bets like 21+3 and Perfect Pairs may look tempting. However, with a huge casino advantage and low winning odds, they are a losing proposition. Of course, if Lady Luck decides to shine on the player, their profits can exceed whatever they earn in a blackjack session alone. But over time, playing side bets will deplete the player's bankroll. Gamblers cannot apply any strategy as it's a matter of luck whether they win or not. So the basic online blackjack real money strategy advises against playing side bets if you are playing to win. However, if your goal is to play for fun, then these offer just that!
Set Your Wagering Limits
Seasoned blackjack players know how to guarantee themselves a formula for success at the online blackjack real money Canada table. This formula involves setting their personal betting limits before going into the game.
With that in mind, decide on the sum you can afford to lose in a single blackjack session and never overspend. This will help you stretch your budget and prevent you from chasing your losses.
Play at top-rated online blackjack real money Canada casinos
Believe it or not, gambling at an online blackjack real money Canada casino that has fair services is one of the most important factors that impact your blackjack profits. In other words, only a licensed casino can ensure random games and dependable payouts. Don't be fooled into a shady blackjack casino just because their welcome bonus is tempting. For one, it's not uncommon for unlicensed operators to rig games to rip off gamblers. Plus, even if you manage to win real money prizes, they will find excuses to prevent you from cashing out your winnings.
With that in mind, we suggest playing only at a licensed blackjack gaming site, where you can be sure the operator does enough to guarantee fair games and the gambler's security at all times.
Follow a basic blackjack strategy chart
Following a basic blackjack strategy chart when you play blackjack online real money is your ticket to successful gameplay. This is based on all possible combinations of your starting hand against the dealer’s face-up card. The chart will tell you the best move to make, helping you play more efficiently and preventing you from making costly mistakes.
Summary
Armed with our basic blackjack strategy rules, you're now ready to try your luck at the thrilling game of Twenty-One.
First, though, sign up with a legitimate blackjack casino in Canada with plenty of high-quality tables. Best of luck!
