You’ll often find guides telling you the right way to play; that’s the point, right? Well, sure, but why does nobody tell you how not to play? Well, the guys at Lucky Nugget Casino have thrown a quick guide together on the worst blackjack mistakes you can possibly make.
Honestly, by avoiding the bad ways to play, making the good choices becomes a lot simpler.
Not checking the rules beforehand!
Whether they’re playing online or at a land-based casino, most players just plonk themselves down at any old blackjack table. Unfortunately, not all blackjack games are created equal, and while some are better for the player, some are much better for the house. It’s not the casino manager’s job to point you in the right direction, so don’t expect them to do so.
A few things to consider:
- Do they pay 3/2 on blackjack?
- Does the dealer stand on soft-17?
- Can you double down once you’ve split pairs?
Make sure you check out the table rules before you go ahead an play! If the rules are unfavourable, swerve that table!
Avoid tables that pay 6/5 for blackjack!
The sad thing is, even though 6/5 is a rubbish rate for blackjack, tables still exist that payout such rubbish odds. Even if its a single deck game, tell them to forget it and find a blackjack table that pays at 3/2.
Playing against a CMS (Continuous Shuffling Machine)
If you’re wondering what a CMS is, then we don’t blame you! It’s a continuous shuffling machine and works differently from conventional shuffling machines that you’ll find in older casinos.
Instead of shuffling all the cards after a set period of time, a CMS machine constantly shuffles cards after every hand — this makes card counting nigh on impossible. With a CMS, a blackjack table can also deal roughly 20% more hands per hour, increasing the payer’s exposure and subsequent potential to lose. Ultimately, CMS machines hurt your bankroll, so avoid them!
Don’t bother with a progressive betting system!
Progressive betting systems just don’t work! They don’t change your odds one little bit — with some being rather dangerous. The basic idea is that if you double your stake every time you win, you’ll eventually profit. Unfortunately, every event is independent from the last, and has no bearing on future results. The only time you’ll be able to gauge whether or not it’s a good time to bet is to card count!
Binning off basic strategy!
‘I don’t need a game-plan’, you tell yourself, ‘I’ve got Lady Luck on my side.’ Unfortunately guys, Lady Luck isn’t real. You need a strategy unfortunately, as much as that might take the fun out of the game, it’s paramount to profiting. There’s loads of brilliant strategy guides out there, including our own, so check them out and learn how to play like a pro.
Making side bets is a bad idea!
Match pair, lucky ladies, whatever they’re called — avoid them! Some tables have them, while others don’t. If you do end up at a table with side-bets, there’s one thing you should know — the house edge is high. Just stay away!
Betting too much, too often!
Blackjack can be one of those games that can ruin you in moments if you don’t have the bankroll for it. You should always have 100 bets in your bankroll at all times. If you bet at $1 a go, then you need to have $100 in your account — it’s as simple as that.
Forget to grab a ‘player’s card’ when you’re playing in-house!
If you’re a highroller then you’re going to want to get rated by the casino for your play. The only way this happens is by collecting a player’s card so they can track your play. If you don’t grab one, you’ll go unrewarded!
Don’t take your bad luck on others!
If you start shouting at the dealer you’ll end up getting kicked out! Dealers aren’t there to take abuse when you’re losing, nor are they there to celebrate when you’re winning, they’re just a portal to a great gaming experience — respect them!
So, that’s pretty much all you have to do to avoid winning! Stick to these rules and you’ll do better than most. Good luck at the casino!
