Going through the history of mankind, we learn an interesting fact. Judging by the writings found in tombs and other historically significant places gambling is one of the oldest human activities. Bible, Talmud, and other religious books contain many gambling references, while laws in ancient China, Egypt, and Rome were using forced labor and other severe punishments to regulate and limit gamblers’ behavior.
Blackjack is extremely popular
With so many opportunities, in the last two years, online casinos bloomed and became a favorite playground for many. Almost every gambling website has Blackjack on its list of games. But, this is just one reason why it’s so popular among gamblers. This game’s rules are standardized and easy to understand. The main objective is to collect cards and reach or get close but not over the sum of 21 and, of course, beat the dealer.
Truth be told, the most influential reason for Blackjack’s popularity is low house edge which, compared with most games, offers higher winning probabilities. Ultimately, Blackjack allows players to use different strategies and make a decision that is partially based on knowledge and experience.
By choosing between five moves, stand, hit, split, double down or surrender, and showing it with the hand to a dealer, the player is solemnly responsible for the outcome. Most casinos follow the 17 rule which means that, unlike players, a dealer is bound to draw if a hand is less than 17, and stand when the total is between 17 and 21. Players are not limited and have the freedom to combine strategies to increase winning odds.
This game is perfect for social interactions since gamblers don’t play against each other. However, some players don’t care for common strategies and basic rules. In some cases, their game can influence other players, in both bad and good ways. Scanning the situation and recognizing different types of players is something that usually comes with time and experience.
Speaking of Blackjack rules, there are a few that most players use that can be quite useful during the decision-making process. For example, splitting is the basic rule that works when a player has a pair of identical cards. Game rules allow it to split them into separate hands. In this case, a player will receive two more cards from a dealer, for two new hands, and has to double the bet. This simple rule says never split tens and fives but always split aces and eights.
Three easy to learn Blackjack betting strategies
Although experienced players use various strategies, learning these three basic ones is more than sufficient for new players who want to try their luck playing Blackjack online.
Martingale strategy
This strategy is often used for financial investments on the stock market as well as for Roulette and other casino games. The main principle of this system is to double the initial bet in the next hand till winning, and then start all over. It’s based on the probability that winning will cover previous losses, and is usable when the maximum bet limit is high. When applied to Blackjack, this strategy can fail if the dealer and player have blackjack in the same hand. Also, it requires deeper pockets and strong nerves to survive the losing run.
So, if the budget is big, Martingale strategy is almost mathematically bulletproof. The problem is that most casinos, especially those that operate online, have strict betting limits. This rule makes it impossible to apply the Martingale strategy correctly. For these reasons, although it’s a new players’ favorite strategy, the experienced ones usually avoid it.
1-3-2-6 betting system
When gamblers use this positive progression system they adjust their bets depending on the hand. The strategy is based on the probability that the player wins two hands and loses the third one. This means that decreasing and increasing the bets and polling the profit of the table will happen in sequences. Since there are only 4 steps, it’s quite easy to learn it. Even better, it works for Roulette, Baccarat, and other games as well. Also, the risk is minimal and there are no limitations set by casinos to obstruct its use.
However, with Blackjack, it’s important to keep in mind that in some situations the best decision for the particular hand will be to split or double down, meaning to put some extra money on the table.
2-1-2 Manhattan betting system
This is another progressive yet much simpler strategy than the 1-3-2-6 system. The main goal is to learn when to raise and when to reduce or stop betting. As a result, the gambler should make the most of the winning sequence. Although this strategy makes it easier to earn from the hot streak, the amounts are usually pretty small. Since the system doesn’t require increasing bets during the losing strike, this strategy is not a good option for players who want to win their money back. Betting with the Manhattan system could be an ideal choice for a relaxing gambling adventure.
Responsible gambling
Similar to other addictive activities, gambling stimulates the brain circuits responsible for feelings of pleasure and reward. Apart from being entertaining, it’s also closely related to making money and winning. However, adults can take a different approach and choose responsible gambling. This is a type of gambling that accepts entertainment with moderation as a part of the experience. The responsibility lies in the awareness of the possibility of losing and the ability to maintain self-control during the game.
The latest research showed that gamblers can use different strategies and rules to minimize risks and keep gambling activities safe and fun. Avoiding gambling when stressed, limiting the alcohol and cannabis intake, learning game rules before engaging, limiting the time, setting the budget, and using gambling for entertainment, not as a source of income are a few tips that could help. According to experts, combining gambling with other recreational activities is of great importance if a person wants to remain a responsible gambler.
