Blackjack is a game played all around the world by people of all ages and abilities, and with the launch of online casinos, it has never been easier to access games.
With more people playing blackjack than ever before and more people being introduced to the game every week, it’s crucial that blackjack beginners get to grips with a few of the golden rules.
This will ensure that you can maximize your chances of success while protecting yourself against heavy losses – and most importantly, still have fun.
Learn the Basics
This probably goes without saying, but the first step, before playing a single hand, is to learn the basics of blackjack. The premise of the game is so simple, which is why it appeals to so many people, but its simplicity can make beginners feel they can rush in and start playing without any knowledge or practice.
Everyone is familiar with the aim of blackjack: a dealer deals two cards each to you, the player, and themselves. The player’s cards are both shown, while the dealer shows one card and keeps the other hidden. The player’s aim is then to beat the dealer by having a hand of greater value up to the limit of 21, either by hitting for more cards, or standing.
While that is the overall premise, there are plenty of other variables that occur during a game of blackjack that beginners need to be aware of. Knowing how and when to double, take out insurance, split matching cards, and create side bets are areas of blackjack that beginners need to familiarize themselves with.
Research and Experiment Strategies
First thing to understand is that there are no foolproof blackjack strategies that are guaranteed to work each and every time. If there were, then everyone would be blackjack millionaires!
That being said, there are some tried and tested methods that can be used that can help players make the most out of favorable hands while protecting themselves against big losses when things don’t go your way.
Take some time to research respected casino blogs and look up blackjack strategies from experts. Then put those strategies into practice by playing some free games of blackjack. It’s always best to experiment while playing free games so you don’t risk real money.
Take Your Time
One of the biggest advantages of playing virtual blackjack online is that there are no other players and no dealer trying to hurry the game along in order to hit aggressive targets. It is therefore the ideal environment for beginners to play blackjack, allowing players to take their time and try out some different strategies.
It can be tempting to rush through hands when playing blackjack, especially when playing online when there are auto options, but for beginners, it’s best to slow things down and be methodical. This not only allows you to play with a clear mind but also grow accustomed to the many different ways blackjack hands can unfold.
Know When to Walk Away
This is an important lesson and something that is easy to ignore for beginners playing blackjack or indeed any other casino game. Knowing when to walk away from the blackjack table is crucial and is perhaps even more important than learning the most advanced strategies.
Walking away applies both ways: when you are winning, you need to have the self-discipline to stick to an upper limit and cash out while on top. If not, you will eventually lose all of your hard-earned profits – the house edge will see to that at some point.
Still, of course, the most vital is to know when to surrender in blackjack when things are not going right. Chasing lost earnings can be a slippery slope as emotions usually take over and stakes get higher in an attempt to claw back a profit. Just like having an upper limit to cash out winnings, impose a lower limit to leave the blackjack table when you are losing.
It happens to everyone, so simply surrender, admit it wasn’t your day, and come back another time.
Keep it Fun and Watch Out for Warning Signs
There is a reason blackjack is so popular: because it’s fun! However, like any games that involve gambling, there is a risk that the fun element of blackjack becomes something more serious where problem gambling arises.
Remember, blackjack is not a way to become a jackpot millionaire but a game to enjoy. Therefore, play with money you can afford to lose and catch yourself if you find yourself playing too much.
Some online and landbased casinos and licensed blackjack operators also provide insurance. You can visit BetAmerica to know more about blackjack insurance.
If you find yourself playing too much blackjack, online casinos have tools where you can place temporary bans on your account to limit your playing time and how much money you can deposit. There are also plenty of online resources that provide plenty of information about problem gambling and measures to take should any issues arise.
