Basic Strategies and Skills for Live Blackjack

Live blackjack is one of the most popular online casino games. It involves playing the standard blackjack game while connected to a dealer through streaming technology. You will find these basic strategies can assist you in managing your bankroll and increasing the probability of a win. This article will discuss the most vital ones you need to know.  

Are you ready for the world of live blackjack gaming? A new concept in online gambling, it provides all the excitement of a real casino with the ability to play at home. These strategies will help you manage your bankroll and get the best probability of a win. Read on as we give the basic strategy and skills for live blackjack.  

Are the Rules Different in Live Blackjack?

You will find the rules of blackjack are the same when you play live blackjack. Tables that play variations and add side bets will differ, but you can generally follow the standard rules of the game. 
 
The only difference is how the game interface and how it is presented to you. A dealer streams the casino action from a studio. As they deal with the cards, you will see them in real-time and can make bets. This means that all the strategies and tips you have from standard blackjack will work when you play live blackjack games.  

Strategy 1: Doubling Down

The first strategy is more of a tip and one you should get into the habit of doing to increase your probability of winning. A hard 11 is made from the first two cards you are dealt. You will find it one of the most desirable hands you can have. To take advantage of this, you should always double down on that hand.  

Doubling down can be done with any two cards you get at the start of the game. You are then allowed to double the initial wager you made. You get one more card and if you win, you get double your initial bet. 

The only time you should not double down is if the dealer has an ace. You also have a good chance of winning if you get a 10, and the dealer does not have a 10 or an ace. In some instances, if the dealer has a really bad starting hand you may also decide to double down on a 9. 

Strategy 2: Splitting 

Another great starting hand is a pair of 8’s or aces. This is independent of any hand the dealer has. You will need to make a second bet to do this.  

Splitting is only an option when you have two starting cards which are a pair. Once you split them, the bet you make has to be the same value as the starting bet. Each card then becomes its hand, and you may win with both hands, one or none. You may also split into pairs other than aces and eights if the dealer has anything between two and six.  

Never split a pair of tens. They are a strong hand together, giving you a 20. When you split them, you create two hands that are not as strong.  

Strategy 3: When to Stand 

Knowing when to stand is tough, mainly because you have to fight the urge to take risks. The golden rule is to always stand on a 17, or if you have anything higher. Probability states that you won’t get the low-value card you need. Do this regardless of the dealer’s hand.  

If you have a 12 on your opening cards, then stand if the dealer has a five or six. When a dealer is holding these cards, there is a high probability they will go bust. Thus, you don’t need to take the risk and anything on a 12 or higher should be a stand.   

Strategy 4: When to Hit 

Once you know when to stand, you should also know when to hit. Part of this comes down to the level of risk you are willing to take. Generally, your risk tolerance should increase the better the hand the dealer has.  
Firstly, if your cards add up to 11 or less then hit. With this total, you are not going to go bust so hitting is the only logical way forward.  

Should the dealer have a seven or higher, then your risk tolerance needs to increase. If your hand is worse than 17, consider hitting, particularly towards the lower end of the scale.  

One conundrum that can occur is the ace and seven. When you have this hand, you are in a great position. However, if the dealer has an upcard of higher than an eight you should hit. This is because he is more than likely going to get a hand that is more than 18, beating yours.  

This blackjack format is known as the basic strategy. It can help you get the best of the probability and is a great way to get to grips with the game. However, you are gambling and nothing is a guarantee. Manage your bankroll and only gamble that which you can afford to lose. Using this, you should have some long and enjoyable games of live blackjack.