Online casino reviews are the starting point for me, as well as for many fellow gamblers that I know, when about to play at a new online casino. And rightly so. There are folk out there whose job it is to surf the web all day, try out the sites, the games, test their security protection and so on, at least as i gather their job to be. Then at the end of the day report what they found.
Good online casinos are creditted with positive reviews, leading to me and people like me gambling at these sites. And to tell you something - this has worked every single time for three years for me. (Knock on wood…) Beter yet, I’ve designed a better more focused system for reviewing the reviews. With my web browser, I search for certain words and look at the review that includes these words (in positive context). If you want an emphasis on games or promotions, look up these words and go to that online casino. Good luck!
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Online poker is a great game
As an online casino veteran, I spend most of my spare time playing the online casinos games. Especially I like the game of online poker. And people, I must say, this is one hell of a game! Online poker is so great I can’t stop playing it! It’s very exciting: one minute can be so much different from the other! My wife even says that I have a gambling problem. But what does she know? She never tried to play online poker. I admit, I do play too much. But I even won a couple of times, and that she surely appreciates!
Anyway, what I really wanted to say to you guys, is that if you tried playing other online casino games and enjoyed it, you will enjoy online poker twice as much! And today almost any online casino site has an online poker software, so you can play it everywhere! Just keep in mind not to gamble too much, so you won’t loose all your savings. Your wife wouldn’t like it, trust me on that one! And besides, some online casino sites have free online poker. That way you can both have fun and keep your bucks safe with you.
Anyway, what I really wanted to say to you guys, is that if you tried playing other online casino games and enjoyed it, you will enjoy online poker twice as much! And today almost any online casino site has an online poker software, so you can play it everywhere! Just keep in mind not to gamble too much, so you won’t loose all your savings. Your wife wouldn’t like it, trust me on that one! And besides, some online casino sites have free online poker. That way you can both have fun and keep your bucks safe with you.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Gamblers just want to have fun
Over the weekend and going on this morning I’ve been receiving countless calls on my cell-phone and office phone, and even home phone even with people leaving messages there too. What’s up with the online casinos? Like I should know! Actually, I should know, as I am the guys’ no. 1 authority on the field, a guide of sorts. So, what is going on? We’ve been hearing of arrests and legislation efforts that try to curb and limit online gambling in the united states. they are so eager to do so that they are taking by-ways, such as going against advertisers at the online casinos.
First, I tell my friends and here i tell you too, these efforts are desperate. i mean why else would they use these weird excuses to attack online casinos? The latest legislation tyat is stirring the business is pretending to be related to something ttoally unrelated! another argument I share with my friends is that gambling is just like gaming, and as long as we are alowd to play we shouod be alowd to gamble as well. Or are we not supposed to play any more? Give me a break. Nah, give me a poker game.
First, I tell my friends and here i tell you too, these efforts are desperate. i mean why else would they use these weird excuses to attack online casinos? The latest legislation tyat is stirring the business is pretending to be related to something ttoally unrelated! another argument I share with my friends is that gambling is just like gaming, and as long as we are alowd to play we shouod be alowd to gamble as well. Or are we not supposed to play any more? Give me a break. Nah, give me a poker game.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Women dominating the online casino scene
Funny thing happened during the long boring months of football world cup. While most men were glued to the TV screens with their mates straight home from work like my dear husband who would later fall asleep on the coach stinking of bear - I dived deeper into my online casino frenzy. Apparently I wasn’t alone, as many many women enjoyed online casino games ranking some UK sites way up there with these funny new statistics.
Yap, I’m dead serious. Apparently the big hit of online casino lately was the boring game of Bingo. Well boring is my opinion anyway. I reckon slots and Blackjack are heaps better. However I did find myself fitting in nicely in the biggest age group of woman players (18-35) featured by that website. Bingo may be a social game for old ladies but I can’t exactly picture my dear old grandma playing the online computer version.
Yap, I’m dead serious. Apparently the big hit of online casino lately was the boring game of Bingo. Well boring is my opinion anyway. I reckon slots and Blackjack are heaps better. However I did find myself fitting in nicely in the biggest age group of woman players (18-35) featured by that website. Bingo may be a social game for old ladies but I can’t exactly picture my dear old grandma playing the online computer version.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Black is the New Pink
Wow! Great news! I’m like totally psyched! I’m a big online casino fan, I first started playing cause my ex-boyfriend really got me addicted to this whole online casino gambling thing! Guess he didn’t have much else to interest me! So, that’s when I began playing… At first it was like the really simple stuff, like online casino slots, fun, simple and quick! Then, I met this older guy, who was like all sophisticated and stuff and he taught me how to play online casino poker! Oh yeah!
Now, don’t look that I’m blond, I’m a real online poker pro now! So, anyway after months of aimless wandering through various online casino websites I DARED to play online blackjack! Well, you know what? This game is not only for the black!! Go figure! I was it was some kind of a special online casino thing for the black people, and I’m like totally Swedish, so I never even played online blackjack! I really missed out! This online casino game is totally cool! So, sign me up for a game of online casino blackjack!
Now, don’t look that I’m blond, I’m a real online poker pro now! So, anyway after months of aimless wandering through various online casino websites I DARED to play online blackjack! Well, you know what? This game is not only for the black!! Go figure! I was it was some kind of a special online casino thing for the black people, and I’m like totally Swedish, so I never even played online blackjack! I really missed out! This online casino game is totally cool! So, sign me up for a game of online casino blackjack!
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Online Casino Future
The news from throughout the past year was all online gambling if you ask me. Sure, I might be biased in the sense that I am mostly interested, concerned and preoccupied with online casino gambling, but few businesses in the world have been a) this successful, and b) seen such ups and downs. And if 2006 was all gambling, then 2007 seems to be so as well.
A couple of takeovers and buyouts taking place these very days at the online gambling world are a sign for the coming, if you ask me (and a few experts that I am quoting from across the online casino world). One online casino company buys two others, then heading to the online gambling software field and so on. Consolidation will be the sign for this year. I’m ready to bet on that.
A couple of takeovers and buyouts taking place these very days at the online gambling world are a sign for the coming, if you ask me (and a few experts that I am quoting from across the online casino world). One online casino company buys two others, then heading to the online gambling software field and so on. Consolidation will be the sign for this year. I’m ready to bet on that.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Guides don’t need to hold your hand
Online casino gambling, at the end of the day, is about you. You are there in front of the computer and you are the one putting down YOUR money. So guides, advice, tips and experts can stay out of the room when you’re playing. It’s you and the game, you and the computer, simple as that.
However, it is alright to ask for guidance, especially if you are new to the game, need to learn the rules or basic first steps. Online casinos could be confusing and sure, portals and guides are good helpers that will help you find your arms and legs in this crazy, fast-pace world. But by all means – the only way to enjoy your self is to play for yourself. And this can be done without a guide holding your hand, figuratively speaking.
However, it is alright to ask for guidance, especially if you are new to the game, need to learn the rules or basic first steps. Online casinos could be confusing and sure, portals and guides are good helpers that will help you find your arms and legs in this crazy, fast-pace world. But by all means – the only way to enjoy your self is to play for yourself. And this can be done without a guide holding your hand, figuratively speaking.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Someone, Put Me Out of My Misery
Listen up, folks! I’m a small guy living a damned petty life… You know how it is, going to that darned work, coming home to “my sweet” monster of a wife… Nothin’ special… And the only thing manages to prevent me from going totally nuts is online poker! Thank God for the Bill Gates or whoever that nerd had been for inventing computers. I have a few favorite online casino sites and some great online poker portals that give me the sweet illusion of being significant!
Sometimes (heck, every time!) my days are a total blur and a good game of online poker is the only thing that keeps me going. I know, I know, I am not exactly Christopher Columbus here, and you probably heard about online poker before, but believe the poker-master, this game is amazing! And, heck, I am pretty damn good at it! The little pocket money I make playing online poker sure beats my miserable paycheck! Yoo-hoo!
Sometimes (heck, every time!) my days are a total blur and a good game of online poker is the only thing that keeps me going. I know, I know, I am not exactly Christopher Columbus here, and you probably heard about online poker before, but believe the poker-master, this game is amazing! And, heck, I am pretty damn good at it! The little pocket money I make playing online poker sure beats my miserable paycheck! Yoo-hoo!
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Allow Me to Chip In
I thought that today I was gonna write an online casino review, and I was actually trying to decide which online casino I enjoy playing at more, but all of the sudden I’ve realized that I love them all! They are like your kids, you know! Each one has its flaws and advantages! It’s hard to come up with an online casino review! Some online casinos have really great games but the winnings are not that great! Some online casino websites have really awesome tips and strategies but the games are kind of blah!
Of course, there’re those famous popular all-around online casino sites, but it kind of gets too boring to play at the few top online casinos all the time! Anyway, all kinds of great online casinos pop-up all the time! And I don’t mean the scummy ones! So, what you should do is allow yourself to explore the online gambling industry a little, and then decide for yourself!
Of course, there’re those famous popular all-around online casino sites, but it kind of gets too boring to play at the few top online casinos all the time! Anyway, all kinds of great online casinos pop-up all the time! And I don’t mean the scummy ones! So, what you should do is allow yourself to explore the online gambling industry a little, and then decide for yourself!
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Seeking Serious Baccarat Info
Baccarat is a game that, I dunno, strikes the sensibilities as being somewhat more for the stuffy types who at one time or another chose to wear tuxedoes a la James Bond to land-based casinos. Which is why, from what I’ve seen and read about baccarat online, the game is actually anything but stuffy while still maintaining the appearance and aura of sophistication. And so this is why, my friends, I’m looking for the lowdown on baccarat, but I’m not looking for the “oh it’s awesome” responses. I need informed informers who can inform me with relevant information about baccarat.
I’m not what one could call a huge online casino fan, mind you, but I admit that I’m intrigued and more than that, I’m interested in trying new things when it comes to computer games online. If someone can explain to me the basics about baccarat in a way that makes me want to play it, who knows? I’m not making any serious moves to get started on any sort of online casino habit, but we’ll see. First off, I want to see how many responses I get to my baccarat inquiry to see if taking a gamble on it is worth it.
I’m not what one could call a huge online casino fan, mind you, but I admit that I’m intrigued and more than that, I’m interested in trying new things when it comes to computer games online. If someone can explain to me the basics about baccarat in a way that makes me want to play it, who knows? I’m not making any serious moves to get started on any sort of online casino habit, but we’ll see. First off, I want to see how many responses I get to my baccarat inquiry to see if taking a gamble on it is worth it.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Seeking Serious Baccarat Info
Baccarat is a game that, I dunno, strikes the sensibilities as being somewhat more for the stuffy types who at one time or another chose to wear tuxedoes a la James Bond to land-based casinos. Which is why, from what I’ve seen and read about baccarat online, the game is actually anything but stuffy while still maintaining the appearance and aura of sophistication. And so this is why, my friends, I’m looking for the lowdown on baccarat, but I’m not looking for the “oh it’s awesome” responses. I need informed informers who can inform me with relevant information about baccarat.
I’m not what one could call a huge online casino fan, mind you, but I admit that I’m intrigued and more than that, I’m interested in trying new things when it comes to computer games online. If someone can explain to me the basics about baccarat in a way that makes me want to play it, who knows? I’m not making any serious moves to get started on any sort of online casino habit, but we’ll see. First off, I want to see how many responses I get to my baccarat inquiry to see if taking a gamble on it is worth it.
I’m not what one could call a huge online casino fan, mind you, but I admit that I’m intrigued and more than that, I’m interested in trying new things when it comes to computer games online. If someone can explain to me the basics about baccarat in a way that makes me want to play it, who knows? I’m not making any serious moves to get started on any sort of online casino habit, but we’ll see. First off, I want to see how many responses I get to my baccarat inquiry to see if taking a gamble on it is worth it.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Previews, Not Reviews
People keep talking about online casino reviews and where to find them, but I say that the reviews are not that helpful, and the real deal is online casino previews. That’s right. I will take my chances. After previewing the site I’ll have a sound understanding of what I am up against. A much better understanding than reading an online casino review. I mean, who has the time to search the web for online casino reviews that discuss the online casino that I want to register for. Each site has a preview section where you can look at the games and features that the online casino has, and make a decision for yourself.
Besides, downloading the software and playing in ‘free mode’ is, well, free. And you can take a look at the real casino before taking your wallet out. Online casino reviews are helpful if you stumble upon the right review, but they are not necessarily what you want to search for. Count on yourself, believe me it will be worth it! Have fun.
Besides, downloading the software and playing in ‘free mode’ is, well, free. And you can take a look at the real casino before taking your wallet out. Online casino reviews are helpful if you stumble upon the right review, but they are not necessarily what you want to search for. Count on yourself, believe me it will be worth it! Have fun.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
The Wonders of Baccarat
Give it up for the online casino baccarat that can be found all over the place! Who here isn’t all gung-ho for the game of baccarat at an online casino? Be honest about your true feelings for baccarat, because I love online casino baccarat and it’s such a fun and easy game to play! I used to avoid playing the game at land-based casinos, but with the confidence I’ve gotten from playing games like baccarat online and exploring its history, I’m really thinking about trying it out in person the next time I’m in Vegas.
Don’t worry though, I’m not a crazed online casino gambling fan, here to try and sell you on online casino baccarat just for the hell of it. I’m just a person who knows what’s what when it comes to fun online, and baccarat is more fun than I previously imagined! I’m not passionate about online casino baccarat, but I won’t deny being a fan. Any other fans out there should raise the roof in support of more baccarat!
Don’t worry though, I’m not a crazed online casino gambling fan, here to try and sell you on online casino baccarat just for the hell of it. I’m just a person who knows what’s what when it comes to fun online, and baccarat is more fun than I previously imagined! I’m not passionate about online casino baccarat, but I won’t deny being a fan. Any other fans out there should raise the roof in support of more baccarat!
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Help Me Find Great Online Casino Reviews
Online casino reviews are about a dime a dozen, but I’m looking for quality online casino reviews. Can anyone tell me where to find online casino reviews that aren’t going to make me think that they’re not created with tender loving care? I mean, how am I supposed to trust the reviews of online casino websites when they look like they were created out of the blue yesterday? I can’t be alone in looking for quality online casino reviews. I’m only accepting the tops, because it’s my money we’re talking about.
Gambling online is a hobby, but like I said it’s my money and I want only the top online casino reviews there are.
Can someone please point out where on the world wide web I can find quality, succinct, informative and not just BS online casino reviews? It really is quite important to me, when you get right down to it. I’m not giving out any rewards here, just simply know that you’ll have my gratitude if you can show me online casino reviews that can’t be beat.
Gambling online is a hobby, but like I said it’s my money and I want only the top online casino reviews there are.
Can someone please point out where on the world wide web I can find quality, succinct, informative and not just BS online casino reviews? It really is quite important to me, when you get right down to it. I’m not giving out any rewards here, just simply know that you’ll have my gratitude if you can show me online casino reviews that can’t be beat.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Great rewards program at HoldemPoker
I am no new to the online poker game and have tried many different online casino sites, so I can compare and say for sure which one is worth something and which one is not. Not long ago I have found a great online casino site with a really good online poker program. The HoldemPoker site has recently launched their Club Hold’em. It allows the online poker players to earn point which can be exchanged later for prizes, tickets to live poker tournaments, and so on.
And the biggest prize is (could you believe it?) an opportunity to play at the prestigious World Poker Finals at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn., in October-November 2006! Is this the greatest online poker site or what? Anyhow, every time you play in the HoldemPoker site, you get 1 club point for every 10 points of your game. And then you can exchange your club points. They also have a catalogue of what you can exchange your club points for. So I recommend to all of you online poker lovers who are reading my post right now to go straight to the HoldemPoker site and start earning some points!
And the biggest prize is (could you believe it?) an opportunity to play at the prestigious World Poker Finals at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn., in October-November 2006! Is this the greatest online poker site or what? Anyhow, every time you play in the HoldemPoker site, you get 1 club point for every 10 points of your game. And then you can exchange your club points. They also have a catalogue of what you can exchange your club points for. So I recommend to all of you online poker lovers who are reading my post right now to go straight to the HoldemPoker site and start earning some points!
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
It’s alive
Someone there in the online casino arena must have heard about the wonders of live impact since it’s been offered here in almost every possible aspect. As for me, it doesn’t really matter. As long as I can play privately at home, wearing my worn out P.J’s in front of the telly, nothing is a problem. Yeah, well of course I’ll have to get some periodical incentive of scoring every once in a while, but that’s pretty much where my demands end. Oddly enough somewhere out there, in some foreign land of online casinos, sit the costumer service people with their soft patient motherly voices. The miniature live dealers posing there serene faces on the screen, deal there miniature cards for a game of Poker or Craps or spinning their compact little roulette wheel. To many this may very well serve the purpose of bringing us closer to the real traditional live casino scene, but casino is casino and as long as you win, the way you get there doesn’t really matter.
Monday, July 9, 2007
Something good about online casino
I’ve just stopped smoking and it’s not the easiest thing to do, I didn’t do it very willingly either, it was the doctor’s verdict that my lounges are just waiting to collapse. It’s especially hard when I go to the casino. I’m a regular there, favorite past time with the missus. I never noticed how smoky it is in there until now. I’d probably take in less if I’ll light one myself. So I thought casinos are a goner. But what can I say, I’m a gambler at heart and there is no other way for me to enjoy a long weekend. And so, my wife and I decided to give the online casino a try. We were cautious at first, playing on dry and checking if it’s not a scam. I even got my son in law to research the online casino scene and tell me what’s less likely to be a con. But since that happened some months ago, I’m a true online casino reformist. I play everything, from slots, to poker and roulette. I already had my modest few windings, similar to what I would get on land based casino. I think I’ve definitely converted now.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
My blazing red winnings
Carnival casino is one of my latest successful online casino discoveries. I was actually one of those lucky beginners to collect the $777 shortly after signing up. I went for the new progressive BlacJack game and was impressed by the many appealing offers of this casino site. Starting from the live dealers you can chat with, the real good round the clock support which guided me through collecting my winnings and the relatively fast payout rate. From my short acquaintance with this online casino, I can honestly say that their blazing read home page is the only thing I have a problem with so far.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Some tips for new players
Hello to all you new baccarat players! I am, probably such as you guys, a big online baccarat fan. It is, no doubt, a fun and exciting game, which gives you a lot of entertainment and an opportunity to win money. But how can you win any money without knowing the basics of the game?
Well, I guess you do know the rules of baccarat, but still, there are a few tricks which you should know when you play. I wasn’t aware of them myself up until recently, but after a friend told me about them, my gaming has drastically improved. So here it goes.
First of all, remember that in baccarat, the casino takes a commission every time a player wins a bet that is placed on the banker side. This is because betting on the banker has an inherent 1.06 percent advantage. Bets are paid at 0.95-to-1. Second, for any total over nine, only the last digit is taken. For example, a total composed of a six of clubs and a six of diamonds is two. If the player or the banker has a total of eight or nine, it’s called a “natural” and automatically wins - unless the other hand also has a natural, in this case the two hands tie. So remember these two simple rules and you will play much better!
Well, I guess you do know the rules of baccarat, but still, there are a few tricks which you should know when you play. I wasn’t aware of them myself up until recently, but after a friend told me about them, my gaming has drastically improved. So here it goes.
First of all, remember that in baccarat, the casino takes a commission every time a player wins a bet that is placed on the banker side. This is because betting on the banker has an inherent 1.06 percent advantage. Bets are paid at 0.95-to-1. Second, for any total over nine, only the last digit is taken. For example, a total composed of a six of clubs and a six of diamonds is two. If the player or the banker has a total of eight or nine, it’s called a “natural” and automatically wins - unless the other hand also has a natural, in this case the two hands tie. So remember these two simple rules and you will play much better!
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Sometimes Giving Tips is Nice
We all go out, be it to restaurants or bars, cafes or other venues where we are served by waiters and witresses, and at the end of which we leave a tip behind. Our perception of tipping is quite convulated, confused and if I may say so myself, wrong. We often look at the service givers as unfortunate, complied to do what they do and all we can do is credit them with a few bills. We wish we could do more.
But giving service that deserves a tip is not all bad, not at all. Granted, I’ve never been a waitress myself, but I have given out service in the online casino context, service that is called tips but most defenitely deserves a tip in response. I apprecuiate forums and discussion rooms where tips are asked for and given ut. If I have some knowledge I learn I share it right away. It won’t hurt me, and it actually makes me feel good about myself.
But giving service that deserves a tip is not all bad, not at all. Granted, I’ve never been a waitress myself, but I have given out service in the online casino context, service that is called tips but most defenitely deserves a tip in response. I apprecuiate forums and discussion rooms where tips are asked for and given ut. If I have some knowledge I learn I share it right away. It won’t hurt me, and it actually makes me feel good about myself.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
How to play Red Dog
Red Dog poker is one of the easiest online casinos games to learn and Online Casinos is the best place to learn it. Just read the following instructions and you'll know how to play Red Dog Poker like a pro. The game uses the regular poker lingo you all know, but it's played on a blackjack table giving the game a nice online casinos twist. After placing your opening bet you'll be handed two cards by the dealer. All you have to do is bet on the third card. Will the next card fall between the ranks of the two previously handed cards? Or will it not?
Don't bother yourself with suits or colors, as Red Dog poker is very simple. The only thing that makes a difference is the cards' rank. For example, if you were dealt a 3 and a 9, then the third card will have to be between 4 and an 8 for you to win the round. Online Casinos wants you to have the best online casinos experience and this effortless online casinos game is the just the right game for a relaxing fun online activity.
Remember that cards from 2 to 10 are face valued and that a Jack is worth 11, a queen 12, a King 13 and an ace counts as 14. It doesn't get any easier than Red Dog Poker. If are dealt to consecutive cards the bet is over and the wager will be returned to you, so don't worry! In case you get a Pair of the cards the betting will stop – but if you're third card will be of the same value as the two dealt cards, you will win a 11:1 payoff. Either way the game is great online casinos fun for everyone!
Don't bother yourself with suits or colors, as Red Dog poker is very simple. The only thing that makes a difference is the cards' rank. For example, if you were dealt a 3 and a 9, then the third card will have to be between 4 and an 8 for you to win the round. Online Casinos wants you to have the best online casinos experience and this effortless online casinos game is the just the right game for a relaxing fun online activity.
Remember that cards from 2 to 10 are face valued and that a Jack is worth 11, a queen 12, a King 13 and an ace counts as 14. It doesn't get any easier than Red Dog Poker. If are dealt to consecutive cards the bet is over and the wager will be returned to you, so don't worry! In case you get a Pair of the cards the betting will stop – but if you're third card will be of the same value as the two dealt cards, you will win a 11:1 payoff. Either way the game is great online casinos fun for everyone!
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Red Dog Poker
Check out Red Dog Poker, also known as Acey-Deucey or In-Between. This great online casinos game is a wonderful combination between the poker and blackjacks worlds. The game has all poker aspects but it's played on a blackjacks table – a game that no online casinos fan can turn down! Online Casinos hosts the best sites that offer Red Dog Poker so you could have a great online casinos experience and gain access for the top Red Dog Poker rooms.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Video Poker Terms
| Action | Opportunity to act. A players turn is his action. |
| Ante | A small bet given by each player to start the pot at the beginning of a poker hand. |
| Burn | between each betting round before putting out the next community card(s) there is a process of discarding the top card from the deck, face down. This is done as security against any player recognizing or glimpsing the next card to be used on the board. |
| Complete Hand | A hand that is defined by all five cards - a straight, flush, full house, four of a kind or a straight flush. |
| House | The place running the game. |
| Inside Straight | A hand that has four of the cards necessary for a straight but needs one in the middle to complete it. |
| Kicker | An unpaired card used to determine which of two near - equivalent hands is better. |
| Muck | The pile of folded and burned cards in front of the dealer. |
| Open - ended straight | Four successive cards needing one at either end to make a straight. |
| Your exclusive cards that only you can see. | |
| Protect | To keep your hand or place a chip on your cards. This prevents them from being fouled by a discarded hand, or accidentally being mucked by the dealer. |
| Quads | Four of a kind. |
| Rank | The numerical value of a card. |
| Tell | A sign or indication that a player accidentally gives about the strength of his hand or next action. |
| Toke | A small sum of money that the winner of the pot gives the dealer. |
| Trip | Three of a kind. |
| Variance | A measure of the up and down swings your fund goes through. |
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
How To Win Video Poker
Video Poker - How To Win
Overview | Basic Playing Strategy Summary
Overview:
Video poker is thought to be a game of luck, maybe because of its resemblance to slot machines in some aspects. However, this is far from being the case. Playing video poker requires skill too.
The video poker machines are programmed to pay-out up to 100% when players play at the expert level, the reason the casinos can do this is because most, or one can say almost all of the players don't play anywhere near the expert play level required.
The following tips can bring your playing closer to an expert level and improve your chances of winning.
1. Only machines that offer full payback are the ones you should play. Meaning, they will, in theory, payback all of the monies played. If the machine payback is not posted then look at the chart on the machine and pick out one that pays the most for a full house and a flush. The greater the return then the higher that machine pays-out. For instance on a jacks or better machine:
Machine Return Machine Payback
9 for a full house / 6 for a flush 99.5%
8 for a full house / 5 for a flush 97.4%
7 for a full house / 5 for a flush 96.3%
6 for a full house / 5 for a flush 95.2%
2. Remember, in video poker you are playing a machine. The machine is programmed to only payoff when a player holds one of the posted hands. Don't use regular poker strategies like holding a high value card to be used along with a pair, the machine doesn't care and you have lost the opportunity to draw a better card.
3. Always play the maximum number of coins shown on the machine so you will be entitled to receive the bonus payout for a royal flush. Also make sure to check that the machine has accepted all of your coins before playing. If you do get a big win you want to be completely sure the five coins were played. The payouts for every machine are attached to the machine.
4. Play progressive machines, they can pay large amounts for a royal flush and make the payout more in line with the difficulty of obtaining a royal flush (about once in every 40,000 hands). Play progressive machines that are showing about 80% of the payoff amount (example $2,000 on a machine that has a payoff of $2,500), and make sure you are playing the required number of coins to be entitled to get the payoff.
5. If you have four cards and need one in the middle to fill a straight don't count on a draw. On the other hand if you have four consecutive cards and only need one at either end to fill a straight then take a shot at making the straight.
6. Prefer any pair over holding a high card. Many players would discard a pair of two's and keep one or more high cards, this is not a good strategy, you have better odds trying for three of a kind.
7. Always prefer a high pair over a four-card open straight, a four-card flush or a three-card royal. Try for three of a kind knowing that at least you have recovered your bet.
8. Always prefer a low pair over a four-card open end straight. The low pair has more value than going for the straight and should be kept.
9. A three-card royal should be preferred over a low pair, a four-card flush and a four card open end straight. The bonus for the royal flush makes it a better play.
10. If your first five cards doesn't have at least one high card don't be afraid to draw five new ones.
Basic Playing Strategy Summary
Cards in your hand Draw
4 of a kind or better 0 cards (keep all your cards)
4 cards to a royal 1 card
Full house or flush 0 cards (keep all your cards)
3 of a kind 2 cards
4 card straight flush 1 card
Straight 0 cards (keep all your cards)
2 pair 1 card
High pair 3 cards
3 cards to the royal 2 cards
4 card flush 1 card
Low pair 3 cards
4 card straight 1 card
3 card straight flush 2 cards
2 high cards 3 cards
1 high card 4 cards
Garbage 5 cards
Overview | Basic Playing Strategy Summary
Overview:
Video poker is thought to be a game of luck, maybe because of its resemblance to slot machines in some aspects. However, this is far from being the case. Playing video poker requires skill too.
The video poker machines are programmed to pay-out up to 100% when players play at the expert level, the reason the casinos can do this is because most, or one can say almost all of the players don't play anywhere near the expert play level required.
The following tips can bring your playing closer to an expert level and improve your chances of winning.
1. Only machines that offer full payback are the ones you should play. Meaning, they will, in theory, payback all of the monies played. If the machine payback is not posted then look at the chart on the machine and pick out one that pays the most for a full house and a flush. The greater the return then the higher that machine pays-out. For instance on a jacks or better machine:
Machine Return Machine Payback
9 for a full house / 6 for a flush 99.5%
8 for a full house / 5 for a flush 97.4%
7 for a full house / 5 for a flush 96.3%
6 for a full house / 5 for a flush 95.2%
2. Remember, in video poker you are playing a machine. The machine is programmed to only payoff when a player holds one of the posted hands. Don't use regular poker strategies like holding a high value card to be used along with a pair, the machine doesn't care and you have lost the opportunity to draw a better card.
3. Always play the maximum number of coins shown on the machine so you will be entitled to receive the bonus payout for a royal flush. Also make sure to check that the machine has accepted all of your coins before playing. If you do get a big win you want to be completely sure the five coins were played. The payouts for every machine are attached to the machine.
4. Play progressive machines, they can pay large amounts for a royal flush and make the payout more in line with the difficulty of obtaining a royal flush (about once in every 40,000 hands). Play progressive machines that are showing about 80% of the payoff amount (example $2,000 on a machine that has a payoff of $2,500), and make sure you are playing the required number of coins to be entitled to get the payoff.
5. If you have four cards and need one in the middle to fill a straight don't count on a draw. On the other hand if you have four consecutive cards and only need one at either end to fill a straight then take a shot at making the straight.
6. Prefer any pair over holding a high card. Many players would discard a pair of two's and keep one or more high cards, this is not a good strategy, you have better odds trying for three of a kind.
7. Always prefer a high pair over a four-card open straight, a four-card flush or a three-card royal. Try for three of a kind knowing that at least you have recovered your bet.
8. Always prefer a low pair over a four-card open end straight. The low pair has more value than going for the straight and should be kept.
9. A three-card royal should be preferred over a low pair, a four-card flush and a four card open end straight. The bonus for the royal flush makes it a better play.
10. If your first five cards doesn't have at least one high card don't be afraid to draw five new ones.
Basic Playing Strategy Summary
Cards in your hand Draw
4 of a kind or better 0 cards (keep all your cards)
4 cards to a royal 1 card
Full house or flush 0 cards (keep all your cards)
3 of a kind 2 cards
4 card straight flush 1 card
Straight 0 cards (keep all your cards)
2 pair 1 card
High pair 3 cards
3 cards to the royal 2 cards
4 card flush 1 card
Low pair 3 cards
4 card straight 1 card
3 card straight flush 2 cards
2 high cards 3 cards
1 high card 4 cards
Garbage 5 cards
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
How To Play Video Poker
Playing The Game
To start playing video poker you deposit coins into the machine and place your bet. This must be done before you draw your cards, and can't be changed once the game starts.
Next, you push a button marked "Draw/Deal", the machine will then display your initial hand of five cards. Once seeing your cards you decide if you want to keep any of them in your hand. If you do you push the "Hold/Cancel" button under the card(s) you want to keep. If you change your mind and don't want to keep a previously held card push the "Hold/Cancel" button again and the hold will be canceled. It is important to make sure that there is conformation on the screen that you have held the cards that you want to hold (the word "hold" flashes under your held cards).
Press the Draw/Deal button a second time to get new cards for those not held. If you have a winning hand the machine pays off and is then ready for another game.
Winning hands
The following hands win, ordered top to bottom from the highest-ranking hands to the lowest.
Important to remember: When the cards will be displayed they usually wont be in their ranking order. Look at them carefully before deciding since the machine will not bring to your attention the fact that there is a hand or a potential for one.
Royal flush
A Royal Flush is a hand with an Ace, King, Queen, Jack and 10 of the same suit.
Straight flush
A Straight Flush is a hand of five cards in order and of the same suit; for example A, 2, 3, 4, 5 is a group of five ordered cards. (An ace can usually be counted as the lowest card in the order).
Four of a Kind
Four cards of the same value and aother odd card (for example Q, Q, Q, Q, 3).
Full House
Is a hand that has three cards of the same rank and two cards of another (for example k, k, k, 5, 5).
Flush
All five cards belong to the same suit (for example 5 of diamonds, 3 of diamonds, 8 of diamonds, King of diamonds and Ace of diamonds).
Straight
Five cards in order, but not of the same suit (for example Ace of hearts, 2 of Clubs, 3 of diamonds, 4 of Clubs and 5 of Spades).
Three of a Kind
Three cards of the same rank together with two odd cards (such as 6, 6, 6, K and 3).
Two Pair
Two cards of the same rank. You have two pair if the hand has two pair and an odd card (for example 8, 8, 5, 5, 3).
One Pair (Jacks or better)
Two cards of the same rank, in video poker only pairs of jacks, queens, kings or aces pay off.
Video Poker Payoffs
Overview
The payoff for a single coin bet changes depending on the game played. It is possible to play more than one coin the usual maximum is five coins although in some machines you can gamble up to 100.
On some machines, when the maximum amount of coins are played it increases the payoff (for example one machine pays on a royal flush: 250 coins for a single coin bet, 500 for a two coin bet, 750 for a three coin bet, 1,000 for a four coin bet and 4,000 for a five coin bet). When the payout percentages are higher when max coins are played, it's good strategy to gamble five coins to increase your winnings over time. The following lists show representative payoffs for a single coin bet for the different video poker games.
Jacks or Better Machines These are the basic video poker machines using one "deck" of cards and no wild cards. This game represents the odds most truthfully, and gives high payouts for good hands.
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Hand Payoff
Royal Flush 250 coins
Straight Flush 50 coins
4 of a Kind 25 coins
Full House 9 coins
Flush 6 coins
Straight 4 coins
3 of a Kind 3 coins
Two Pair 2 coins
Pair of Jacks or Higher 1 coin
None of the Above Loss
Progressive Machines
Many gamblers think that this type of video poker gambling is the only kind worth playing due to the large payoffs that can be achieved from these machines.
These machines payoff somewhat less on some of the common wins but can have a vast payoff for royal flush. Progressive machines are frequently linked together, and every time a royal flush is not made on one of the linked machines the jackpot grows. Usually, in order to be entitled to win the progressive payoff you have to bet max coins. Our online casino team recommends strongly that if you are playing a progressive machine you always bet five coins.
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Hand Payoff
Royal Flush 300 coins
Straight Flush 50 coins
4 of a Kind 25 coins
Full House 8 coins
Flush 5 coins
Straight 4 coins
3 of a Kind 3 coins
Two Pair 2 coins
Pair of Jacks or Higher 1 coin
None of the Above Loss
Double Bonus Poker Payouts
In this game Payoffs include the ones for jacks or better video poker (from a pair of jacks or better to a Royal Flush). And there are also additional bonus payoffs for three different four of a kind hands, four aces, four 2s, 3s and 4s and four 5s through kings.
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Hand Payoff
Royal Flush 800 coins
Straight Flush 50 coins
4 Aces 160 coins
4 (2, 3, 4's) 80 coins
4 (5 through K's) 50 coins
Full House 10 coins
Flush 7 coins
Straight 5 coins
3 of a Kind 3 coins
Two Pair 1 coin
Pair of Jacks or Higher 1 coin
None of the Above Loss
A joker is added to the deck in this version of video poker gambling. This joker is a called a wild card and can be used to help acquire any winning hand, it also allows for an additional win if the player manages to get five of a kind. To balance this, all pairs lose in this variation.
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Hand Payoff
Royal Flush 500 coins
5 of a Kind 100 coins
Straight Flush 50 coins
4 of a Kind 20 coins
Full House 8 coins
Flush 7 coins
Straight 5 coins
3 of a Kind 3 coins
Two Pair 1 coin
None of the Above Loss
Deuces Wild
In this style of video poker gambling twos are wild cards. Meaning that they can be used as any card. This improves the chances of winning, and allows a higher chance of getting five of a kind. To balance this advantage the minimum hand to win is three of a kind.
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Hand Payoff Option 1 Payoff Option 2
Royal Flush 800 coins 800 coins
4 Deuces 200 coins 400 coins
Wild Royal 25 coins 20 coins
5 of a Kind 15 coins 10 coins
Straight Flush 9 coins 10 coins
4 of a Kind 5 coins 4 coins
Full House 3 coins 4 coins
Flush 2 coins 3 coins
Straight 2 coins 2 coins
3 of a Kind 1 coin 1 coin
None of the Above Loss Loss
To start playing video poker you deposit coins into the machine and place your bet. This must be done before you draw your cards, and can't be changed once the game starts.
Next, you push a button marked "Draw/Deal", the machine will then display your initial hand of five cards. Once seeing your cards you decide if you want to keep any of them in your hand. If you do you push the "Hold/Cancel" button under the card(s) you want to keep. If you change your mind and don't want to keep a previously held card push the "Hold/Cancel" button again and the hold will be canceled. It is important to make sure that there is conformation on the screen that you have held the cards that you want to hold (the word "hold" flashes under your held cards).
Press the Draw/Deal button a second time to get new cards for those not held. If you have a winning hand the machine pays off and is then ready for another game.
Winning hands
The following hands win, ordered top to bottom from the highest-ranking hands to the lowest.
Important to remember: When the cards will be displayed they usually wont be in their ranking order. Look at them carefully before deciding since the machine will not bring to your attention the fact that there is a hand or a potential for one.
Royal flush
A Royal Flush is a hand with an Ace, King, Queen, Jack and 10 of the same suit.
Straight flush
A Straight Flush is a hand of five cards in order and of the same suit; for example A, 2, 3, 4, 5 is a group of five ordered cards. (An ace can usually be counted as the lowest card in the order).
Four of a Kind
Four cards of the same value and aother odd card (for example Q, Q, Q, Q, 3).
Full House
Is a hand that has three cards of the same rank and two cards of another (for example k, k, k, 5, 5).
Flush
All five cards belong to the same suit (for example 5 of diamonds, 3 of diamonds, 8 of diamonds, King of diamonds and Ace of diamonds).
Straight
Five cards in order, but not of the same suit (for example Ace of hearts, 2 of Clubs, 3 of diamonds, 4 of Clubs and 5 of Spades).
Three of a Kind
Three cards of the same rank together with two odd cards (such as 6, 6, 6, K and 3).
Two Pair
Two cards of the same rank. You have two pair if the hand has two pair and an odd card (for example 8, 8, 5, 5, 3).
One Pair (Jacks or better)
Two cards of the same rank, in video poker only pairs of jacks, queens, kings or aces pay off.
Video Poker Payoffs
Overview
The payoff for a single coin bet changes depending on the game played. It is possible to play more than one coin the usual maximum is five coins although in some machines you can gamble up to 100.
On some machines, when the maximum amount of coins are played it increases the payoff (for example one machine pays on a royal flush: 250 coins for a single coin bet, 500 for a two coin bet, 750 for a three coin bet, 1,000 for a four coin bet and 4,000 for a five coin bet). When the payout percentages are higher when max coins are played, it's good strategy to gamble five coins to increase your winnings over time. The following lists show representative payoffs for a single coin bet for the different video poker games.
Jacks or Better Machines These are the basic video poker machines using one "deck" of cards and no wild cards. This game represents the odds most truthfully, and gives high payouts for good hands.
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Hand Payoff
Royal Flush 250 coins
Straight Flush 50 coins
4 of a Kind 25 coins
Full House 9 coins
Flush 6 coins
Straight 4 coins
3 of a Kind 3 coins
Two Pair 2 coins
Pair of Jacks or Higher 1 coin
None of the Above Loss
Progressive Machines
Many gamblers think that this type of video poker gambling is the only kind worth playing due to the large payoffs that can be achieved from these machines.
These machines payoff somewhat less on some of the common wins but can have a vast payoff for royal flush. Progressive machines are frequently linked together, and every time a royal flush is not made on one of the linked machines the jackpot grows. Usually, in order to be entitled to win the progressive payoff you have to bet max coins. Our online casino team recommends strongly that if you are playing a progressive machine you always bet five coins.
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Hand Payoff
Royal Flush 300 coins
Straight Flush 50 coins
4 of a Kind 25 coins
Full House 8 coins
Flush 5 coins
Straight 4 coins
3 of a Kind 3 coins
Two Pair 2 coins
Pair of Jacks or Higher 1 coin
None of the Above Loss
Double Bonus Poker Payouts
In this game Payoffs include the ones for jacks or better video poker (from a pair of jacks or better to a Royal Flush). And there are also additional bonus payoffs for three different four of a kind hands, four aces, four 2s, 3s and 4s and four 5s through kings.
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Hand Payoff
Royal Flush 800 coins
Straight Flush 50 coins
4 Aces 160 coins
4 (2, 3, 4's) 80 coins
4 (5 through K's) 50 coins
Full House 10 coins
Flush 7 coins
Straight 5 coins
3 of a Kind 3 coins
Two Pair 1 coin
Pair of Jacks or Higher 1 coin
None of the Above Loss
A joker is added to the deck in this version of video poker gambling. This joker is a called a wild card and can be used to help acquire any winning hand, it also allows for an additional win if the player manages to get five of a kind. To balance this, all pairs lose in this variation.
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Hand Payoff
Royal Flush 500 coins
5 of a Kind 100 coins
Straight Flush 50 coins
4 of a Kind 20 coins
Full House 8 coins
Flush 7 coins
Straight 5 coins
3 of a Kind 3 coins
Two Pair 1 coin
None of the Above Loss
Deuces Wild
In this style of video poker gambling twos are wild cards. Meaning that they can be used as any card. This improves the chances of winning, and allows a higher chance of getting five of a kind. To balance this advantage the minimum hand to win is three of a kind.
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Typical Payoff Values for This Game:
Hand Payoff Option 1 Payoff Option 2
Royal Flush 800 coins 800 coins
4 Deuces 200 coins 400 coins
Wild Royal 25 coins 20 coins
5 of a Kind 15 coins 10 coins
Straight Flush 9 coins 10 coins
4 of a Kind 5 coins 4 coins
Full House 3 coins 4 coins
Flush 2 coins 3 coins
Straight 2 coins 2 coins
3 of a Kind 1 coin 1 coin
None of the Above Loss Loss
Monday, June 25, 2007
Video Poker
Poker originally spread from the Mississippi and Ohio rivers to the east coast via the railroads. In the mid 1830's poker became exceedingly popular in the U.S. Today the game of poker is one of the best - known and most popular card games in North America and many other parts of the world. Poker has remained the same for many years; the last significant change was the addition of the jokers as wildcards around the year 1875.
Video poker is a combination of slot machines and five-card draw poker. There are two significant differences between regular poker and video poker. One being the fact of playing against a machine and not real people, and the other, in consequence with the previous, is that the player's aim is to achieve particular hands and not beat opponent's hands.
With the invention of the computer chip, during the mid 1970's we received the video poker. A game that brings together the excitement of the graphics and sound effects of the machine and the enjoyment of a game requiring skill as well as luck.
Video poker is a combination of slot machines and five-card draw poker. There are two significant differences between regular poker and video poker. One being the fact of playing against a machine and not real people, and the other, in consequence with the previous, is that the player's aim is to achieve particular hands and not beat opponent's hands.
With the invention of the computer chip, during the mid 1970's we received the video poker. A game that brings together the excitement of the graphics and sound effects of the machine and the enjoyment of a game requiring skill as well as luck.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Video Poker History
Poker originally spread from the Mississippi and Ohio rivers to the east coast via the railroads. In the mid 1830's poker became exceedingly popular in the U.S. Today the game of poker is one of the best - known and most popular card games in North America and many other parts of the world. Poker has remained the same for many years; the last significant change was the addition of the jokers as wildcards around the year 1875.
Video poker is a combination of slot machines and five-card draw poker. There are two significant differences between regular poker and video poker. One being the fact of playing against a machine and not real people, and the other, in consequence with the previous, is that the player's aim is to achieve particular hands and not beat opponent's hands.
With the invention of the computer chip, during the mid 1970's we received the video poker. A game that brings together the excitement of the graphics and sound effects of the machine and the enjoyment of a game requiring skill as well as luck.
Video poker is a combination of slot machines and five-card draw poker. There are two significant differences between regular poker and video poker. One being the fact of playing against a machine and not real people, and the other, in consequence with the previous, is that the player's aim is to achieve particular hands and not beat opponent's hands.
With the invention of the computer chip, during the mid 1970's we received the video poker. A game that brings together the excitement of the graphics and sound effects of the machine and the enjoyment of a game requiring skill as well as luck.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Visit Las Vegas
As a gambler I think that the best vacation will be in the seen city Las Vegas
I'm visiting Las Vegas about 4 times a year
and most of the times I bet on about 10,000$ sometimes I win but unfortunately most of the times I loose, But you should now that I ‘m not going to Las Vegas for the money, absolutely no, Vegas is like the reason I’m living, I don’t care about the money I care about having fun with my life and real fun is in Vegas.
Any way the last visit on Vegas was 2 months ago in April.
I went with two of my friends and together we took about 28,000$ about nine grand each.
First I went to my favorite table game which is the poker game, we all know the poker game it’s when you get 5 cards and need to get the most powerful hand with only 1 option to exchange up to 3 cards.
Tell you the troth I didn’t thought I will be very successful in the poker game But I won about 5 grand at this lucky table, I’m sure that I will get back there in my next visit, my higher bet was on 2 grand in one game, are you asking your self did he won in this games well the answer is SURE… :-) :-)
After the poker games I went strait to the blackjack table games, four people where in the game I was one of them, But there were gambling experts, I lost about 1000$
What about my friends, how much they won? The not really good casinos games players I think they has lots of working to do, they started like me in the poker table games, and lost about a half of the money, after that they lost the money in slots machines and baccarat one of them lots the rest of the money in the roulette.
I finished the day with the roulette game, I won lots of money there about 3 grand, the problem with this game I that it based only on luck and not on gambling strategy
I will finish the gambling trip in my next post right after review some gambling games
All luck till then and best regards.
I'm visiting Las Vegas about 4 times a year
and most of the times I bet on about 10,000$ sometimes I win but unfortunately most of the times I loose, But you should now that I ‘m not going to Las Vegas for the money, absolutely no, Vegas is like the reason I’m living, I don’t care about the money I care about having fun with my life and real fun is in Vegas.
Any way the last visit on Vegas was 2 months ago in April.
I went with two of my friends and together we took about 28,000$ about nine grand each.
First I went to my favorite table game which is the poker game, we all know the poker game it’s when you get 5 cards and need to get the most powerful hand with only 1 option to exchange up to 3 cards.
Tell you the troth I didn’t thought I will be very successful in the poker game But I won about 5 grand at this lucky table, I’m sure that I will get back there in my next visit, my higher bet was on 2 grand in one game, are you asking your self did he won in this games well the answer is SURE… :-) :-)
After the poker games I went strait to the blackjack table games, four people where in the game I was one of them, But there were gambling experts, I lost about 1000$
What about my friends, how much they won? The not really good casinos games players I think they has lots of working to do, they started like me in the poker table games, and lost about a half of the money, after that they lost the money in slots machines and baccarat one of them lots the rest of the money in the roulette.
I finished the day with the roulette game, I won lots of money there about 3 grand, the problem with this game I that it based only on luck and not on gambling strategy
I will finish the gambling trip in my next post right after review some gambling games
All luck till then and best regards.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Blackjack Terms
| Bankroll | The money a player plans to bet with. |
| Basic Strategy | A computer developed method for playing blackjack that may be easily memorized by a player without counting cards. |
| Breaking hand (Stiff) | A hand that will go over 21 with a one-card draw, such as a hard 12,13,14,15 or 16. |
| Burned | Discarded; what is done to the top card after the deck is cut so that the player can't see it's value. |
| Busted | To overdraw to a total greater than 21 an immediate lose. |
| Counting | A method developed in order to keep track of the cards remaining in the game. |
| Doubling down | The possibility of doubling-up a bet when the player feels he can win when being dealt only one additional card. |
| Draw | To obtain additional cards to the original two cards. |
| Face card | King, Queen or Jack. |
| First base | The first seat left to the dealer. |
| Hard count | The true face value of the cards being played with. |
| Hard hand | A hand without an ace, or a hand with an ace that can only be counted as one. |
| Hit | The request to receive another card from the dealer. |
| Hole card | The dealer's face down card. |
| Insurance | A side bet offered to the player by the house, when the dealer's face-up card is an ace, that the dealer has a 10 as his hole card, making blackjack. Pays 2 to 1. |
| Natural | A total of 21 in only two cards. Automatic winner pays 3 to 2. |
| Pat hand | A hand with a total value of 17 to 21. |
| Pit boss | The person in charge of the blackjack games. |
| Point count | The net value of the card count at the end of a hand. |
| Press | To increase the size of the successive bet. |
| Push | A tie between the dealer and player in which no money changes hands. |
| Shoe | A dealing box for multiple-deck games. |
| Soft hand | A hand with an ace, which can be counted as 11. |
| Splitting pairs | An option the player has when dealt two original cards of the same value of splitting the two cards and playing each hand individually. |
| Stand | What a player does when he is satisfied with his existing cards and does not want any more |
| Surrender | The ability of the player to give up only half his bet when the player believes he cannot beat the dealer. Must be done before any cards are drawn, and is not offered in all casinos. |
| Third base | The seat immediately to the right of the dealer, last to be dealt. |
| Toke | The tip atuity given to dealers from players. |
| "21" | The winning total in blackjack. Another name for blackjack. |
| Up card | The dealer's face-up card. |
How to play blackjack
Playing the game
Blackjack 20 basic rules
Blackjack playing options
Blackjack betting rules
When you play blackjack your aim is to get a card point total higher than the dealer does, without going over 21. Remember; although blackjack is also called 21, you are actually playing to beat the dealer, not to get as close to 21 as possible.
Blackjack in the web based as well as the land-based casinos is not a group game, while there may be many players around the table the dealer only plays with one player at a time.
Playing the game
Blackjack is played with any amount of decks between one and eight. The round begins with each player placing his bet in the circle directly in front of him. The dealer then starts with the player to his left and deals him one card; he then continues dealing every player at the table one card and finally one to himself (face up). This round is repeated - dealing all the players a second card. The dealer's second card is dealt face down.
When everyone has their two cards the dealer again starts with the player to his left and asks if he wants further cards, these cards are dealt one at a time, until the player busts or indicates that he wants to stand. After all players have played their hands, the dealer will play his. The dealer has no free will. He must always play by certain house rules. These rules usually tell you that the dealer will hit when his total is 16, and stand when his score is 17 or more.
After the dealer has finished with his hand, he will pay off bets with better hands, collect bets on worse hands, or in the case of a tie "pushes". If the dealer busts, all players that didn't, automatically win. Players then collect their winnings, if any, and can make a new bet as a new round begins.
Blackjack 10 basic rules
1. All cards are dealt face up. (Unless it's a one-deck game)
2. The players are not to touch their cards or the original bet on the table.
3. All face cards (king, queen etc.) are ten points.
4. Aces are worth either one (hard) or eleven (soft) points.
5. The player wins if his hand has more points than the dealer, without going over twenty-one.
6. The highest hand in blackjack is an ace and any ten-point card and is called a blackjack.
7. A winning blackjack pays 3:2.
8. All other winning bets pay even money.
9. If both dealer and player have a blackjack the bet is a push.
10. A hand with points over 21 (a bust) loses
Playing options
After all players were dealt the first two cards, the dealer will ask each player in turn, from left to right if he wants more cards. The player decides what to do depending on what cards he has and what cards the dealer has showing. The options available for the player are the following:
Stand: If you are satisfied with your cards you may signal you don't want additional cards. To indicate a stand, you wave your hand as if to wave the dealer away. In a one-deck game, put your cards face down under your bet.
Hit: If you want to take another card you may continue to do so until you stand or bust. To indicate you wish to hit tap the table with your finger. In a one-deck game, scrape your cards lightly against the felt.
Double: If you feel you need only one more card you may double your bet and then be dealt one more card- good or bad. This option is possible only on the first two cards. Some casinos restrict doubling to hands totaling 9, 10 or 11. To indicate a double you place an equal value wager next to your original bet. In a one-deck game, place your cards face up next to your bet.
Split: If your first two cards are of equal point value, you can divide them into two hands. Each card is then the first of a new hand. You must also place a bet of the same value as the first, for the second hand. You can resplit if the opportunity arises. Double after splitting is not always allowed. To indicate a split put the additional bet beside the original one.
Surrender: This option is offered in some casinos. On the first two cards, if you feel you will be unable to beat the dealer's hand you announce "surrender", the dealer then picks up your cards and half of your bet but leaves the other half of the bet, thus, if losing, you have saved half of your money. This option is mostly offered after the dealer checks for blackjack, called "late surrender". In some casino's you must announce your surrender decision before the dealer deals to the first hand.
Online blackjack: when playing the game on the Internet, clicking the specific button signals all moves. For instance, when wanting another card, clicking the "hit" button etc.
Once all of the players are finished the dealer plays his. The dealer has only the two options of hit or stand and they are governed by a set of rules. The rules generally state that if the dealer has 16 or less he must take a card and if he has a count of 17 or more he has to stand.
After the dealer has played his hand he collects losing bets, pays winning ones and pushes the ties. A round is then finished and a new one can begin.
Blackjack betting rules
All betting is done before the first card is dealt.
The players win even money if they better the dealer, and win 3 to 2 for a blackjack ($15 paid on a $10 bet).
If you split aces you are allowed to play only one card on each of the two aces, and if you do get a ten as the second card it is not considered a blackjack. These hands will beat a dealers hand if it totals 21, but lose if the dealer gets a blackjack, and only pays even money if the player wins.
Insurance bets
This bet is offered if the dealer's face card is an ace. In this case he will ask if anyone wants insurance, this is a side bet on the dealer having a card worth ten as his face down card - meaning he has blackjack. If you think the dealer has a ten you can bet an amount up to the value of your original bet and if you are correct you will receive 2 to 1 on your insurance bet. This has nothing to do with your original bet, you still have to beat the dealer's hand, if he has the ten the best you can do is tie with a blackjack of your own. After all players had a chance to accept or refuse insurance the dealer will check the down card. If it is a blackjack the dealer will collect losing bets immediately, if not, the player in turn may play their hands.
Blackjack 20 basic rules
Blackjack playing options
Blackjack betting rules
When you play blackjack your aim is to get a card point total higher than the dealer does, without going over 21. Remember; although blackjack is also called 21, you are actually playing to beat the dealer, not to get as close to 21 as possible.
Blackjack in the web based as well as the land-based casinos is not a group game, while there may be many players around the table the dealer only plays with one player at a time.
Playing the game
Blackjack is played with any amount of decks between one and eight. The round begins with each player placing his bet in the circle directly in front of him. The dealer then starts with the player to his left and deals him one card; he then continues dealing every player at the table one card and finally one to himself (face up). This round is repeated - dealing all the players a second card. The dealer's second card is dealt face down.
When everyone has their two cards the dealer again starts with the player to his left and asks if he wants further cards, these cards are dealt one at a time, until the player busts or indicates that he wants to stand. After all players have played their hands, the dealer will play his. The dealer has no free will. He must always play by certain house rules. These rules usually tell you that the dealer will hit when his total is 16, and stand when his score is 17 or more.
After the dealer has finished with his hand, he will pay off bets with better hands, collect bets on worse hands, or in the case of a tie "pushes". If the dealer busts, all players that didn't, automatically win. Players then collect their winnings, if any, and can make a new bet as a new round begins.
Blackjack 10 basic rules
1. All cards are dealt face up. (Unless it's a one-deck game)
2. The players are not to touch their cards or the original bet on the table.
3. All face cards (king, queen etc.) are ten points.
4. Aces are worth either one (hard) or eleven (soft) points.
5. The player wins if his hand has more points than the dealer, without going over twenty-one.
6. The highest hand in blackjack is an ace and any ten-point card and is called a blackjack.
7. A winning blackjack pays 3:2.
8. All other winning bets pay even money.
9. If both dealer and player have a blackjack the bet is a push.
10. A hand with points over 21 (a bust) loses
Playing options
After all players were dealt the first two cards, the dealer will ask each player in turn, from left to right if he wants more cards. The player decides what to do depending on what cards he has and what cards the dealer has showing. The options available for the player are the following:
Stand: If you are satisfied with your cards you may signal you don't want additional cards. To indicate a stand, you wave your hand as if to wave the dealer away. In a one-deck game, put your cards face down under your bet.
Hit: If you want to take another card you may continue to do so until you stand or bust. To indicate you wish to hit tap the table with your finger. In a one-deck game, scrape your cards lightly against the felt.
Double: If you feel you need only one more card you may double your bet and then be dealt one more card- good or bad. This option is possible only on the first two cards. Some casinos restrict doubling to hands totaling 9, 10 or 11. To indicate a double you place an equal value wager next to your original bet. In a one-deck game, place your cards face up next to your bet.
Split: If your first two cards are of equal point value, you can divide them into two hands. Each card is then the first of a new hand. You must also place a bet of the same value as the first, for the second hand. You can resplit if the opportunity arises. Double after splitting is not always allowed. To indicate a split put the additional bet beside the original one.
Surrender: This option is offered in some casinos. On the first two cards, if you feel you will be unable to beat the dealer's hand you announce "surrender", the dealer then picks up your cards and half of your bet but leaves the other half of the bet, thus, if losing, you have saved half of your money. This option is mostly offered after the dealer checks for blackjack, called "late surrender". In some casino's you must announce your surrender decision before the dealer deals to the first hand.
Online blackjack: when playing the game on the Internet, clicking the specific button signals all moves. For instance, when wanting another card, clicking the "hit" button etc.
Once all of the players are finished the dealer plays his. The dealer has only the two options of hit or stand and they are governed by a set of rules. The rules generally state that if the dealer has 16 or less he must take a card and if he has a count of 17 or more he has to stand.
After the dealer has played his hand he collects losing bets, pays winning ones and pushes the ties. A round is then finished and a new one can begin.
Blackjack betting rules
All betting is done before the first card is dealt.
The players win even money if they better the dealer, and win 3 to 2 for a blackjack ($15 paid on a $10 bet).
If you split aces you are allowed to play only one card on each of the two aces, and if you do get a ten as the second card it is not considered a blackjack. These hands will beat a dealers hand if it totals 21, but lose if the dealer gets a blackjack, and only pays even money if the player wins.
Insurance bets
This bet is offered if the dealer's face card is an ace. In this case he will ask if anyone wants insurance, this is a side bet on the dealer having a card worth ten as his face down card - meaning he has blackjack. If you think the dealer has a ten you can bet an amount up to the value of your original bet and if you are correct you will receive 2 to 1 on your insurance bet. This has nothing to do with your original bet, you still have to beat the dealer's hand, if he has the ten the best you can do is tie with a blackjack of your own. After all players had a chance to accept or refuse insurance the dealer will check the down card. If it is a blackjack the dealer will collect losing bets immediately, if not, the player in turn may play their hands.
Blackjack History
Although unclear, blackjack history is usually traced back as an evolution of other French games such as "chemin de fer" and "French Ferme". Around the 1700's in French casinos it was called first "vingt - et - un" (twenty - and - one) and gradually developed into blackjack. It has been in United States since the 1800's.
An early bet, which awarded the holder of the cards with a payment of 10 to 1, was getting a jack of spades and an ace of spades, both black, as the first two cards. This bet gave the game called 21, its currently more known name - blackjack. However, the name outlived its source and this bet (probably the best part of blackjack history) no longer exists.
Blackjack leaped into public awareness in the late 1950's and the 1960's when mathematical information was published that showed sophisticated gamblers how they could play nearly even with the casino and perhaps gain a slight edge. One of these books became so popular that it made the New York Times bestseller list. Blackjacks then become number one table game in the U.S. as it has remained right to these days. The newly gained popularity and all of the media attention it generated helped the casinos to make a fortune.
However, the casinos joy over a success of a book that told the public how to beat the house did not last long, and serious steps were taken in order to secure their profit. They tried to change the rules of blackjack to make it more difficult to win. This didn't last long because people protested by not playing the new "rules version of blackjack and the resulting loss of revenue quickly forced the casinos to go back to the original rules.
Although the last move didn't succeed, others did. In search of ways to increase their odds, casinos introduced multiple decks, shuffling machines, and frequent and early shuffling among other changes. Together with the fact that the methods described in the books were difficult to master even by those who were patient and clever enough to understand them, the casinos increased their edge back to odds they considered acceptable. All the rest, as we say, is blackjack history.
An early bet, which awarded the holder of the cards with a payment of 10 to 1, was getting a jack of spades and an ace of spades, both black, as the first two cards. This bet gave the game called 21, its currently more known name - blackjack. However, the name outlived its source and this bet (probably the best part of blackjack history) no longer exists.
Blackjack leaped into public awareness in the late 1950's and the 1960's when mathematical information was published that showed sophisticated gamblers how they could play nearly even with the casino and perhaps gain a slight edge. One of these books became so popular that it made the New York Times bestseller list. Blackjacks then become number one table game in the U.S. as it has remained right to these days. The newly gained popularity and all of the media attention it generated helped the casinos to make a fortune.
However, the casinos joy over a success of a book that told the public how to beat the house did not last long, and serious steps were taken in order to secure their profit. They tried to change the rules of blackjack to make it more difficult to win. This didn't last long because people protested by not playing the new "rules version of blackjack and the resulting loss of revenue quickly forced the casinos to go back to the original rules.
Although the last move didn't succeed, others did. In search of ways to increase their odds, casinos introduced multiple decks, shuffling machines, and frequent and early shuffling among other changes. Together with the fact that the methods described in the books were difficult to master even by those who were patient and clever enough to understand them, the casinos increased their edge back to odds they considered acceptable. All the rest, as we say, is blackjack history.
Blackjack
If you have heard of blackjack but never played, this is the place to learn how.
If you're looking for tips and good advice that will help you win, or just some clarifications on the advanced points about the most popular game of the casino, you will find them here as well.
This section will tell you all you need to know about winning at blackjack, web based blackjack and much more.
A few pointers about blackjack's popularity:
Blackjack is the casino game that gives players their best chance of winning.
Blackjack rules are few and easy to understand.
The odds of winning can be changed by the player to favor himself, over the house.
Although simple, Blackjack depends on skill and not only luck.
The minimum bets are generally low, without decreasing the odds.
If you're looking for tips and good advice that will help you win, or just some clarifications on the advanced points about the most popular game of the casino, you will find them here as well.
This section will tell you all you need to know about winning at blackjack, web based blackjack and much more.
A few pointers about blackjack's popularity:
Blackjack is the casino game that gives players their best chance of winning.
Blackjack rules are few and easy to understand.
The odds of winning can be changed by the player to favor himself, over the house.
Although simple, Blackjack depends on skill and not only luck.
The minimum bets are generally low, without decreasing the odds.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
How to win in blackjack
Blackjack - How To Win
Winning at Blackjack is in fact not only a question of luck, it involves at least as much skill and practice. It is possible for a good blackjack player to change the casino's standard edge and on occasion even acquiring an edge over the house by playing with a good strategy.
On this page:
3 Golden Rules
Basic game strategy
Hard hand
Soft hand
Doubling Down strategy
Hard hand
Soft hand
Splitting Pairs strategy
Surrendeting strategy
Card counting
3 Golden Rules:
There are three things you must remember in order to be a winning blackjack player.
1. Your aim is to get a point value higher than the dealer, not as close to 21. Forgetting this leads many players to bust more than they should.
2. The dealer has no free will and has to follow a set of rules regardless of his position. Even if the dealer has a winning hand with a total of 16 he still has to hit even with the possibility of busting.
3. The dealer has the advantage in that all players go first. If you bust first you lose even if the dealer busts later in the game.
Basic game strategy
The basic game strategy is the most important thing to know on your way to becoming a winning blackjack player. This is the best way to play every possible situation. In this way you use statistical analysis to predict the outcome of various hands. You then play your cards the way that is statistically the most likely to result in a win.
Because the dealer must play using the house rules he must always hit with a hand of 16 or less and stand with a hand of 17 or more (some casinos allow the dealer to hit on a soft 17). One of the dealer's cards is face-up for all players to see, and the next predictions for the dealer going bust have been computed.
Dealers face-up card is: 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Ace
Percentage chance of busting: 35 37 40 42 42 26 24 23 23 17
It is clearly seen that the dealer has a better chance of busting when his face - up card is a six or smaller value card, and less if the face - up card has a value of seven or more. Based on this information the following blackjack strategy was developed:
Hard hand rules (When an Ace must be counted as one)
If the player is dealt a hand totaling 17 to 21 he should stand, the probability of busting on a hit is high.
A player who is dealt a hand totaling 12 to 16 when the dealer is showing a low value card (2 to 6) should stand. There is a high probability that the dealer will bust and the player will then win.
A player who is dealt a hand totaling 12 to 16 when the dealer is showing a high value card (7 to Ace) should hit. There is a low probability that the dealer will bust and the player should try to improve his hand in order to win with a higher total.
Soft hand rules (Ace counted as a one OR an eleven)
Most casinos allow an ace to be played as either a 1 or 11, whichever value is most valuable to the holder. When a player has an ace that is being used as an 11, it's referred to as a "soft hand". These hands are played differently as the player cannot draw to a soft hand and bust (the player just revalues the Ace to count as 1 instead of 11).
The basic strategy for playing soft hands is to double down when the dealer has a high probability of busting (low value face-up cards).
Players Hand Strategy
Soft 19 or 20 Stand
Soft 18 Stand if the dealer is showing 2,7 or 8.
Hit if the dealer is showing 9,10 or Ace.
Double if the dealer is showing 3,4,5 or 6.
Soft 17 Hit if the dealer is showing 2, 7, 8, 9, 10 or Ace.
Double if the dealer is showing 3,4,5 or 6.
Soft 16 or 15 Hit if the dealer is showing 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10 or Ace.
Double if the dealer is showing 4,5 or 6.
Soft 14 or 13 Hit if the dealer is showing 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10 or Ace.
Double if the dealer is showing 5 or 6.
Doubling down strategy
Doubling down allows you to enlarge your bet when the chances of winning are good. In these situations you should always bet the maximum amount allowed. Doubling down should be done ONLY when you have a better chance of winning than the dealer, or when you stand to earn more profit by doubling down than by hitting the hand.
Rules for doubling down vary from one casino to another; usually you can only double down after you receive your initial two cards and before you draw a third card, but some casinos only allow the option on certain hand values (usually 9, 10 or 11).
Hard hand rules for doubling down
Double down when:
Your card- hard 11 dealer is showing 2 through 10.
Your card- hard 10 dealer is showing 2 through 9.
Your card- hard 9 dealer is showing 3 through 6.
Soft hand rules for doubling down
Double down when:
Your card is (A, 6) or (A, 7) and the dealer is showing 3 through 6.
Your card is (A, 4) or (A, 5) and the dealer is showing 4 through 6.
Your card is (A, 2) or (A, 3) and the dealer is showing 5 or 6.
Splitting pairs strategy
Splitting pairs should be done in direct relation to their value.
Never split a pair of tens or a pair of fives. With two tens you have a total of 20 which is more than likely to be a winning hand, while a pair of fives total 10 and you have a better chance of drawing a 10 than any other value for a win. You should always split Aces and eights. Again you have a better chance of drawing a card worth 10 than any other and then you have either 21 (for Aces) or 18 (for eights) - both are hard for the dealer to beat.
All other splitting decisions are made depending on the dealer's face-up card in general split when the dealer is showing a low value face-up card. Split when:
You have a pair of 2's, 3's or 7,s and the dealer is showing 2 through 7.
You have a pair of 4's and the dealer is showing 5 or 6.
You have a pair of 6's and the dealer is showing 2 through 6.
You have a pair of 9's and the dealer is showing 2 through 6, 8 or 9. - If the dealer is showing a 7 and you assume he has a hole card (face down) worth 10 then your 18 will beat it so you don't split.
Surrendering strategy
This option is not popular and is not offered in many casinos. You surrender when you have a hand that has a very poor chance of winning. When surrendering you stop playing and lose half of your bet (consequently keeping half of the bet instead of losing it all).
When playing multiple deck blackjack games you should only surrender when:
You have a hard 15 and the dealer is showing a 10
You have a hard 16 and the dealer is showing a 9, 10 or Ace.
When playing two deck Blackjack games you should only surrender when:
You have a hard 15 and the dealer is showing a 10
You have a hard 16 and the dealer is showing a 10
You have a pair of 7's and the dealer is showing a 10
Card Counting
Chances are you have heard about card counting before. Most likely, you too imagine someone remembering every card that has been played and then drawing a conclusion on the next card. Something like Dustin Hofman in the film rain man? So a card counter would need to have a photographic memory or some other extraordinary talent. That is NOT how card counting works.
Surprisingly different from its fame, card counting is straightforward. All it involves is simple adding and subtracting of numbers. The idea is to determine whether or not the cards in the deck(s) favor the player or the dealer. However, don't get us wrong, card counting requires skill and a lot of practice together with knowledge of the basic strategy. Experienced card counters still play by the basic strategy most of the time. To use card counting successfully you must be able to count fast while looking like just another casual player.
What exactly do we count? A deck, which still has a high content of 10 valued cards in it, generally favors the player. On the other hand, a game with a lot of low value cards generally favors the dealer.
Therefore in a game with
A lot of high valued cards you would increase your bet
A lot of low valued cards you would decrease your bet
Why are 10 valued cards so important for the player?
On a poor hand (12 - 16) you have the option of not drawing when the deck is stacked with 10's, but the dealer must draw with anything 16 and below.
On a hand totaling 9, 10, or 11 you have the choice to double down. A great idea on a deck stacked with 10's. There is of course no advantage for the dealer.
You are paid 3 - 2 for a blackjack. The dealer "just wins". You have higher chances of getting a blackjack on a deck stacked with 10's.
After understanding the general idea of card counting it is left to learn how to do so. There are many different methods, which help you determine if a deck is stacked with 10's. We bring a few of them below.
The high low point count system
This method is called the High-Low Point Count System. It is a basic card counting system, which is very easy to learn and therefore recommended for beginners. Being easy to learn does however not mean it is easy to use. It requires a lot of practice. You must be able to count fast, so you can keep up with the ongoing game and prevent suspicion arising. Be sure to practice before you play!
With the High-Low Point Count System every card is given a certain value such as follows:
Card value Count
2,3,4,5,6 +1
7,8,9 0
10, Ace -1
Using this schedule, all you have to do now is add up a +1, 0, or -1 for every card dealt during the game.
Example:
Player 1 is dealt 2 and 10
Player 2 is dealt Ace and 9
Player 3 is dealt 6 and 8
Dealer shows a 10
Your calculation will be (+1 -1) for Player 1, (- 1 + 0) for Player 2, (+1 + 0) for Player 3 and -1 for the Dealer. Adding them up brings you to a total count of -1.
Drawing your conclusion
When your total count is around 0 or lower, like in our example, you should only place the minimum bet. However, when the count rises to +2 or even higher the deck is in your favor. This is the time to raise your bet.
I recommend you to practice counting until you are able to count through a whole deck of cards within 60 seconds. Remember - practice makes perfect.
Winning at Blackjack is in fact not only a question of luck, it involves at least as much skill and practice. It is possible for a good blackjack player to change the casino's standard edge and on occasion even acquiring an edge over the house by playing with a good strategy.
On this page:
3 Golden Rules
Basic game strategy
Hard hand
Soft hand
Doubling Down strategy
Hard hand
Soft hand
Splitting Pairs strategy
Surrendeting strategy
Card counting
3 Golden Rules:
There are three things you must remember in order to be a winning blackjack player.
1. Your aim is to get a point value higher than the dealer, not as close to 21. Forgetting this leads many players to bust more than they should.
2. The dealer has no free will and has to follow a set of rules regardless of his position. Even if the dealer has a winning hand with a total of 16 he still has to hit even with the possibility of busting.
3. The dealer has the advantage in that all players go first. If you bust first you lose even if the dealer busts later in the game.
Basic game strategy
The basic game strategy is the most important thing to know on your way to becoming a winning blackjack player. This is the best way to play every possible situation. In this way you use statistical analysis to predict the outcome of various hands. You then play your cards the way that is statistically the most likely to result in a win.
Because the dealer must play using the house rules he must always hit with a hand of 16 or less and stand with a hand of 17 or more (some casinos allow the dealer to hit on a soft 17). One of the dealer's cards is face-up for all players to see, and the next predictions for the dealer going bust have been computed.
Dealers face-up card is: 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Ace
Percentage chance of busting: 35 37 40 42 42 26 24 23 23 17
It is clearly seen that the dealer has a better chance of busting when his face - up card is a six or smaller value card, and less if the face - up card has a value of seven or more. Based on this information the following blackjack strategy was developed:
Hard hand rules (When an Ace must be counted as one)
If the player is dealt a hand totaling 17 to 21 he should stand, the probability of busting on a hit is high.
A player who is dealt a hand totaling 12 to 16 when the dealer is showing a low value card (2 to 6) should stand. There is a high probability that the dealer will bust and the player will then win.
A player who is dealt a hand totaling 12 to 16 when the dealer is showing a high value card (7 to Ace) should hit. There is a low probability that the dealer will bust and the player should try to improve his hand in order to win with a higher total.
Soft hand rules (Ace counted as a one OR an eleven)
Most casinos allow an ace to be played as either a 1 or 11, whichever value is most valuable to the holder. When a player has an ace that is being used as an 11, it's referred to as a "soft hand". These hands are played differently as the player cannot draw to a soft hand and bust (the player just revalues the Ace to count as 1 instead of 11).
The basic strategy for playing soft hands is to double down when the dealer has a high probability of busting (low value face-up cards).
Players Hand Strategy
Soft 19 or 20 Stand
Soft 18 Stand if the dealer is showing 2,7 or 8.
Hit if the dealer is showing 9,10 or Ace.
Double if the dealer is showing 3,4,5 or 6.
Soft 17 Hit if the dealer is showing 2, 7, 8, 9, 10 or Ace.
Double if the dealer is showing 3,4,5 or 6.
Soft 16 or 15 Hit if the dealer is showing 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10 or Ace.
Double if the dealer is showing 4,5 or 6.
Soft 14 or 13 Hit if the dealer is showing 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10 or Ace.
Double if the dealer is showing 5 or 6.
Doubling down strategy
Doubling down allows you to enlarge your bet when the chances of winning are good. In these situations you should always bet the maximum amount allowed. Doubling down should be done ONLY when you have a better chance of winning than the dealer, or when you stand to earn more profit by doubling down than by hitting the hand.
Rules for doubling down vary from one casino to another; usually you can only double down after you receive your initial two cards and before you draw a third card, but some casinos only allow the option on certain hand values (usually 9, 10 or 11).
Hard hand rules for doubling down
Double down when:
Your card- hard 11 dealer is showing 2 through 10.
Your card- hard 10 dealer is showing 2 through 9.
Your card- hard 9 dealer is showing 3 through 6.
Soft hand rules for doubling down
Double down when:
Your card is (A, 6) or (A, 7) and the dealer is showing 3 through 6.
Your card is (A, 4) or (A, 5) and the dealer is showing 4 through 6.
Your card is (A, 2) or (A, 3) and the dealer is showing 5 or 6.
Splitting pairs strategy
Splitting pairs should be done in direct relation to their value.
Never split a pair of tens or a pair of fives. With two tens you have a total of 20 which is more than likely to be a winning hand, while a pair of fives total 10 and you have a better chance of drawing a 10 than any other value for a win. You should always split Aces and eights. Again you have a better chance of drawing a card worth 10 than any other and then you have either 21 (for Aces) or 18 (for eights) - both are hard for the dealer to beat.
All other splitting decisions are made depending on the dealer's face-up card in general split when the dealer is showing a low value face-up card. Split when:
You have a pair of 2's, 3's or 7,s and the dealer is showing 2 through 7.
You have a pair of 4's and the dealer is showing 5 or 6.
You have a pair of 6's and the dealer is showing 2 through 6.
You have a pair of 9's and the dealer is showing 2 through 6, 8 or 9. - If the dealer is showing a 7 and you assume he has a hole card (face down) worth 10 then your 18 will beat it so you don't split.
Surrendering strategy
This option is not popular and is not offered in many casinos. You surrender when you have a hand that has a very poor chance of winning. When surrendering you stop playing and lose half of your bet (consequently keeping half of the bet instead of losing it all).
When playing multiple deck blackjack games you should only surrender when:
You have a hard 15 and the dealer is showing a 10
You have a hard 16 and the dealer is showing a 9, 10 or Ace.
When playing two deck Blackjack games you should only surrender when:
You have a hard 15 and the dealer is showing a 10
You have a hard 16 and the dealer is showing a 10
You have a pair of 7's and the dealer is showing a 10
Card Counting
Chances are you have heard about card counting before. Most likely, you too imagine someone remembering every card that has been played and then drawing a conclusion on the next card. Something like Dustin Hofman in the film rain man? So a card counter would need to have a photographic memory or some other extraordinary talent. That is NOT how card counting works.
Surprisingly different from its fame, card counting is straightforward. All it involves is simple adding and subtracting of numbers. The idea is to determine whether or not the cards in the deck(s) favor the player or the dealer. However, don't get us wrong, card counting requires skill and a lot of practice together with knowledge of the basic strategy. Experienced card counters still play by the basic strategy most of the time. To use card counting successfully you must be able to count fast while looking like just another casual player.
What exactly do we count? A deck, which still has a high content of 10 valued cards in it, generally favors the player. On the other hand, a game with a lot of low value cards generally favors the dealer.
Therefore in a game with
A lot of high valued cards you would increase your bet
A lot of low valued cards you would decrease your bet
Why are 10 valued cards so important for the player?
On a poor hand (12 - 16) you have the option of not drawing when the deck is stacked with 10's, but the dealer must draw with anything 16 and below.
On a hand totaling 9, 10, or 11 you have the choice to double down. A great idea on a deck stacked with 10's. There is of course no advantage for the dealer.
You are paid 3 - 2 for a blackjack. The dealer "just wins". You have higher chances of getting a blackjack on a deck stacked with 10's.
After understanding the general idea of card counting it is left to learn how to do so. There are many different methods, which help you determine if a deck is stacked with 10's. We bring a few of them below.
The high low point count system
This method is called the High-Low Point Count System. It is a basic card counting system, which is very easy to learn and therefore recommended for beginners. Being easy to learn does however not mean it is easy to use. It requires a lot of practice. You must be able to count fast, so you can keep up with the ongoing game and prevent suspicion arising. Be sure to practice before you play!
With the High-Low Point Count System every card is given a certain value such as follows:
Card value Count
2,3,4,5,6 +1
7,8,9 0
10, Ace -1
Using this schedule, all you have to do now is add up a +1, 0, or -1 for every card dealt during the game.
Example:
Player 1 is dealt 2 and 10
Player 2 is dealt Ace and 9
Player 3 is dealt 6 and 8
Dealer shows a 10
Your calculation will be (+1 -1) for Player 1, (- 1 + 0) for Player 2, (+1 + 0) for Player 3 and -1 for the Dealer. Adding them up brings you to a total count of -1.
Drawing your conclusion
When your total count is around 0 or lower, like in our example, you should only place the minimum bet. However, when the count rises to +2 or even higher the deck is in your favor. This is the time to raise your bet.
I recommend you to practice counting until you are able to count through a whole deck of cards within 60 seconds. Remember - practice makes perfect.
About my blog
This blog is reviewing and discussing all kind of games, Table games, card games, casino and gambling games, and all kind of games, if there is a game that you are playing, be know that there will be a review on it in my blog.
Today, it's the first time I have ever open my own Blog and tell you the truth, It's very interesting.
I want to dedicate my Blog to my favorite hobbie and this is games.
Yes guys I like to play games, I think that I will never stop playing games at least till I die
What is all games review blog
First I wouldl like to intruduce my Blog,
This is not the first blog that i'm writing and I this time I wanted to start writing a blog about Games review
In this blog i will expose your readers to all kind gambling and casino games, card games and table games
Be aware for everything
This is not the first blog that i'm writing and I this time I wanted to start writing a blog about Games review
In this blog i will expose your readers to all kind gambling and casino games, card games and table games
Be aware for everything
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