Blackjack mistakes that could ruin your game

Winning at tables and on the gaming floor is not a matter of blind luck – maintain a viable strategy and steer clear of these beginner’s mistakes to increase your odds of a big Blackjack win!

When you turn 21, you usually get a key to symbolise your coming of age. In Blackjack, getting a 21 could mean securing the keys to whatever you like! This gambler’s favourite was developed in France in the 1700s, evolving from a game called, vingt-et-un, meaning – you guessed it – “21”. Blackjack has come a long way since those heady days.

Accessible, socially vibrant, packed full of fast-paced thrills, and, most importantly, offering decent odds, Blackjack is one of the most widely played casino games in the world and a mainstay at Sun International casinos. But while it’s relatively simple to get stuck in, you’ll want to get your game right before approaching the table. Here are some common – and costly – Blackjack mistakes beginners make:

Not having a basic strategy in place. They say only fools rush in, and this is true in Blackjack as it is in life. Be sure to memorise the right hand on which to hit, stand, split, and double-down. And you will need to analyse the dealer’s up card before taking any of these actions. As a rule of thumb, stand when your hand is 12-16 and the dealer has 2-6. Hit when your hand is 12-16 when the dealer has 7-Ace.

Paying too much attention to others. Yes, you’re sitting at the table with other players, but you’re not playing against them as you would in Poker — their playing decisions have no impact on your odds of winning. In Blackjack, it’s just you versus the dealer. And while you’re at it, don’t be tempted to heed the advice of “expert” on-lookers or the cocktail waitron too.

Chasing the sun. As a finalist at the recent Black Pearl tournament finale held at Time Square in Pretoria said: “All punters – not just winners – should know when to quit.” Set a cap for how much you're okay with losing and if it’s just not your day, move on. Don’t blow your rent money on a wild fantasy. Of course, you’ll be better able to make rational decisions in a sober state of mind.

Giving in to momentum. No matter whether you are on a losing or winning streak, don’t fall in with the delusion that you are “due” a win. Many gamblers increase their bets when on a perceived roll, but then fall short in the end. The cards don’t know or care about whether you’ve lost or won your previous hand – and they’re all that matters.

Not knowing how to play with hard and soft hands. A hand that can be bust in one hit and does not contain an ace is categorised as a hard hand and is a riskier proposition. If you have an ace (which can be a 1 or 11, depending on the situation), you’ve got a useful safety net. This is why a soft hand gives you an edge.

Join Sun MVG

While you check these into the memory bank, remember to register for the Sun MVG loyalty programme. Your membership is essential to your gaming experience and is the bedrock of Sun International. It’s an easy decision – not only will you be able to gain fantastic accommodation and food and drink discounts, but moving up through the tiers to Platinum and Diamond will see you earn a spot in our exclusive Salon Prive casinos – the pinnacle of gaming excellence.