With basic strategy, the house edge can be reduced to less than 1%, the precise edge depending on house rules such as how many decks are in use and whether the dealer hits or stands on soft 17. You can find the optimal plays for hitting, standing, splitting pairs and doubling down on basic strategy charts.
Opportunity to improve: Blackjack gives you the biggest chance to improve your shot to win of any casino card game. The rules give part of that back to players by paying 3-2 on blackjacks in the best games or 6-5 in games that are worse for you. Both dealer and player bust on about 8% of hands, and if there were no other factors, the house would have about an 8% edge. The house edge: The house had an edge because you have a chance to bust and lose before the dealer plays his hand. Which turn of the cards gives you the best odds to win? Let’s take a look at half a dozen games from two standpoints: the house edge and how much opportunity the games give players to improve their chances of beating the house.
Card games have always been favorites among casino players, and blackjack has led the way as the most popular table game for more than 50 years.
