As an introduction to the game, this Blackjack Guide covers all of the basics, from Blackjack History and a Blackjack Glossary to the rules, odds, and tips on how to play.
Blackjack Guide
No matter what level of play you achieve as a Blackjack player, you will always return to the fundamentals as the source of winning play. That’s because the basics never change, providing the foundation upon which all of the best decisions are made for both betting and playing hands. The sections we have put together in our Blackjack Guide will serve as a refresher for experienced players as well as a step-by-step instruction manual for new ones, covering Blackjack from every important angle.
In fact, unlike other guides to the game that focus entirely on how to play, we start out with an explanation of Why to Play Blackjack, comparing it to other games available on the casino floor. We also show you why skill and not just luck is the key tao winning play. Only then do we go into the steps that are necessary to master the game.
A Complete Introduction to Blackjack
Every player should be familiar with the History of Blackjack to understand the context in which it is played. We trace its origins back to the invention of playing cards and describe the game’s evolution from medieval Europe to the mid 20th century, when it was analyzed and scrutinized by math and computer experts to come up with the optimum way to play under any circumstances.
Most beginners will want to ease into their study of the game by reading our section on Blackjack Basics before delving into our section on getting to know the Basic Rules of Blackjack. We offer a Blackjack Glossary for quick and easy reference to the terminology and slang that is common today, and we have a detailed description of the Blackjack Table Layout that goes beyond what the design is to how it has come about.
Armed with a basic understanding of Blackjack, new players will be anxious to test their knowledge at the tables. Our section on Casino Blackjack helps prepare you for the experience of the pit area, describing what can be expected from the time you sit down until it is time to cash in.
Beyond Beginning Blackjack
Those with some experience of Blackjack play will appreciate the detail we provide. We show not only how the house derives its advantage, but also how the House Edge can be shifted, giving players a much better chance of winning over the long term. Then, we describe the basic of Bankroll Management, to assist players in getting the highest return on their investments at the table.
For those who like lists of insights to help them learn, play, and win, we offer not just one but three sections of Blackjack Tips. The first includes questions every player should answer before sitting down at the table, plus specifics on rules, seating, and timing. The second is on Blackjack Etiquette. And the third, entitled Tips for Playing Blackjack at a Casino, enumerates factors that should be taken into account before heading to the pit area, such as taking advantage of promotions and arranging credit, among others.
Of course, we also cover Blackjack Variations, revealing how casinos have modified (some might say “corrupted”) the basic game—rarely to the player’s advantage. This section is followed up by a look at the worst practices in Blackjack Games to Avoid and the dark side of gambling in Blackjack Cheating.