Blackjack in Casinos
In the royal court of casinos, one game stands as “King of the card games” (if not the entire casino), and that game is blackjack. It’s easy to learn, easy to play, easy to bet on, and anyone, from “Double Down Dan: Blackjack Master” to “Chuckles McNoodle: Inept at Everything” can have a great time.
Given the low point of entry, it’s no wonder blackjack is so popular in casinos. Even if you’re never played blackjack before, you know you want to get as close to 21 without going over (busting). The ‘everyman’ or ‘everywoman’ appeal to the game guarantees a group always wanting to sit down for a chance at winnings.
Casinos devote plenty of space to Blackjack, because it keeps people coming in and playing. But never ones to rest on their laurels, Casinos also aim to keep customers interested by introducing many fun (and sometimes rather odd) blackjack variations. With over 100 variations there’s always a new mix-up to try. Some popular blackjack variations are Blackjack Switch, Spanish 21, Double Attack Blackjack, and Pontoon (Blackjack’s grandfather).
Besides the ease of play, blackjack’s changing odds make it a favorite for experienced casino gamblers. Unlike most games of chance in the casino, blackjack switches between more favorable and less favorable odds. As cards are dealt, there will be either less high cards or less low cards. More high cards in a deck, favor the dealer busting and you become more likely to win. What a great game!
Of course to figure out the likelihood of high or low cards, you’re going to need to count cards. Card counting is assigning a value to each card and doing arithmetic in your head. As you finish you’ll know the odds of a high or low card showing up. Of course, you should never ever let on that you’re a card counter. While card counting is legal, large men with hands the size of Christmas turkeys may ask you to play another game or ask you to leave if you’re suspected of being a card counter.
Despite the revenue blackjack brings in, many casinos have a love-hate relationship with their king. The reason is the house advantage is so low when compared to other games. They can’t remove the game because customers love it so much, so side bets were created to increase profits. These are bets made separate from your bet, and can range from the mundane (getting a certain suit) to the really wild (like combining your cards and the dealer’s to form a poker hand!)
So next time you’re in a casino, make sure you greet the Blackjack King with a few chips. If he’s feeling generous, he’ll reward you with some winnings. Good luck!
