Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games ever invented and it’s easy to see why: it’s fast-paced, exhilarating, and can be very rewarding if proper strategy is utilised.
As such, in order to establish a winning strategy, it’s imperative to avoid these common blackjack myths as they will only leave you frustrated and with a depleted bankroll. Here are the 6 common blackjack myths to avoid at all costs.
1. Assuming a 10 in the Hole
This blackjack myth is particularly prevalent and involves assuming that the dealer has a 10 in the hole (the card that’s face down is a 10 or face card).
However, this theory is nonsensical as there are 16 cards in a deck of 52 with a value of 10 which means that a card with a value of 10 will only appear once in every 3.25 dealt.
2. Card Counting is Illegal
Card counting is a difficult skill to master, but it certainly isn’t illegal. Knowing how many cards are in a deck and knowing the mathematical probability of certain combinations appearing based on what’s already been dealt is an incredible feat.
However, even though it isn’t illegal, we don’t suggest advertising this skill as you’ll likely be asked to leave.
3. Mimicking the Dealer
Many inexperienced players seem to think that mimicking the dealer is the best way to play blackjack as the dealer has the best odds of winning, but they’re forgetting something (much like many punters forget the basics of sports betting when enjoying live AFL betting): the dealer will always follow the house rules which dictate that they hit until they land on 17 or more.
Adopting this approach still gives the dealer the upper hand as they always go second.
4. Avoid Dealers Who Are Winning
While many casino players talk about ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ streaks, they are in fact complete fallacies. Dealers will always play by the house rules and both you and the dealer’s chances of winning rely entirely on the cards and the luck of the draw.
All you can do is utilise a proper strategy which will help to reduce the house edge – nothing more, nothing less.
5. Bad Players Influence Your Chances of Success
Let’s consider a hypothetical situation: you’re at a table with a novice player who keeps hitting on high cards in the hopes of reaching 21. You may be tempted to think that they’re ‘taking’ your cards, but this player could also be teeing up the exact card you need by playing in this way.
A ‘bad’ blackjack player can only hurt your chances by breaking your concentration if you’re focusing on common blackjack myths.
6. Never Go Bust
Another mythical blackjack strategy rooted in fallacy is the idea of never hitting on a hard 12 or more. Adopting this strategy can at best reduce the house edge to just less than 4%, but you need to be a masterful blackjack player in order to make this work.
Rather, develop your own personalised blackjack strategy by practising online before starting to play for real money at the best online casinos available.
