Aces and eights is the name of a blackjack strategy for splitting initial cards. In blackjack there are rules that vary across gambling establishments regarding resplitting, doubling, multiple card draws, and the payout for blackjack. Additionally, there are conditional strategic responses that depend upon the number of decks used, the frequency of shuffling and dealer’s [...]
In many casinos, usually at tables with the lowest table minimums and single-deck games, a blackjack pays only 6:5 or even 1:1 instead of the usual 3:2. Among common rule variations in the U.S., these altered payouts for blackjack are the most damaging to the player, causing the greatest increase in house edge. Since blackjack [...]
This rule, often called the Reno rule, restricts the player to doubling down only on an initial player total of 10 or 11 (sometimes 9, 10, or 11 – more common in Europe). It prevents doubling on soft hands such as soft 17 (ace-6), and is unfavorable for the player. It increases the house advantage [...]
After splitting aces, one common rule is that only one card will be dealt to each ace; the player cannot split, double, or take another hit on either hand. Rule variants include allowing resplitting aces or allowing the player to hit split aces. Allowing the player to hit hands resulting from split aces reduces the [...]
Developed for these rules (as specified in Lesson 1) 6 Decks, S17, DA2, DAS, no surrender. Player’s Hand Decisions 5 thru 8 Always Hit 9 Double 3 thru 6, o/w hit 10 Double 2 thru 9, o/w hit 11 Double 2 thru 10, o/w hit 12 Stand 4 thru 6, o/w Hit 13 thru 16 [...]
The blackjack player will encounter many rule variations which affect the house advantage and therefore affect his chances of winning. Some rules are determined by law or regulation, others by the casino itself. Not all rules are posted, so the player may have to ask either beforehand or when the situation occurs. Over 100 variations [...]
After receiving his initial two cards, the player has four standard options: he can “hit,” “stand,” “double down,” or “split a pair.” Each option requires the use of a hand signal. At some casinos or tables, the player may have a fifth option called “surrender.” Hit: Take another card from the dealer. signal: (handheld) Scrape [...]
Example of a Blackjack game. The top half of the picture shows the beginning of the round, with bets placed and an initial two cards for each player. The bottom half shows the end of the round, with the associated losses or payoffs. In casino blackjack, the dealer faces one to seven players from behind [...]
The foundation of winning at Blackjack is to utilize proper basic strategy in playing the hands. “Proper” means that each decision you make on hitting, standing, doubling or splitting pairs is the correct mathematical play for that hand. There is no room for intuition, gut feelings or guessing when it comes to basic strategy; you [...]
