Blackjack Tips

In addition to the comprehensive information that you can access via the navigation menu options, below we've detailed a few free blackjack tips for you. If you're an experienced blackjack player, you may already know some of these, however, we hope every lover of the game of blackjack will find a tip or two quite useful. Remember, you can enjoy free shockwave blackjack by clicking the image immediately above and to the right of this text, or play for free or real money through the banner display options that are visible across the site.

Strategy - It's always advantageous to utilize basic strategy. It is important to note as well that the basic strategy charts which we've provided apply to only one set of rules. If the rules have been altered where you are playing, you'll need an altered strategy chart.

Decks - The greater the number of decks in the shoe, the larger the house advantage. Thus if you can identify how many decks are being used, it will be easy for you to identify instances where it would be advantageous to play or not play.

Doubling Down - You should always try to double down where basic strategy suggests that you do so. Otherwise you're giving up potential wins, and helping to drive the house edge up.

Splitting - You should always split Aces and 8s. For any other pairs, think carefully first, or check a strategy card.

Surrender - If allowed, utilize the option to 'Surrender' a hard 15 against a dealer's 10, and a 16 (but not 8's) against a dealer's 9, 10 or Ace.

Never - Never take insurance unless you are counting cards; never split 10's

Always - Always stand on a hard 17 or higher if the dealer's showing card is 7 or lower; always stand on a hard 13 through 16 if the dealer's showing card is 6 or lower, but hit if the dealer's showing card is 7 through Ace; always stand on hard 12 or higher if the dealer is showing 4, 5 or 6.

Hit - Hit a hard 12 if the dealer's up card is 2, 3, 7 or higher; hit until you have at least 17 against a dealer's 10; hit a soft 17 against a dealer's 10.

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