LEARN THE BEST TIPS ON HOW TO WIN AT LIVE BLACKJACK

Live blackjack is a thrilling way to enjoy the classic casino game of blackjack in real time with a live dealer.

With real cards being dealt and face-to-face interaction with the dealer, live blackjack offers an immersive experience that’s as close to playing in a land-based casino as possible.

In this post, we’ll be discussing what it takes to win consistently in live dealer blackjack games, including the basic strategy, the pros and cons of playing, as well as the differences between live and online blackjack.

If you want to get more from your blackjack live dealer games, you won’t need to ask the pros at your nearest brick-and-mortar casino; we at HotSlots are here to help!

WHAT IS LIVE BLACKJACK IN THE ONLINE CASINO?

Live blackjack in online casinos brings the thrill of a physical casino directly to your screen.

Unlike traditional online blackjack, where players interact with a computer-generated dealer, live blackjack features a real, professional dealer who shuffles and deals physical cards.

The entire game is streamed in real-time, either in a brick-and-mortar casino or a studio, creating an engaging and authentic atmosphere that mirrors the casino atmosphere of playing in a real casino.

Many online casinos feature live games such as live poker, like blackjack and live baccarat, to name a few.

A live dealer casino is one where you can play live blackjack online; it’s as simple as that!

LIVE BLACKJACK BASICS

Almost every live casino offers a blackjack game or two, so it’s great to know the basic rules of this popular card game.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the live blackjack rules:

1. Joining the Live Table: Log in to your preferred online casino offering Live Blackjack and navigate to the Live Casino section and select a Blackjack table of your choice.
2. Understand Card Values: Before loading up your live dealer blackjack game, nail down the card values. All numbered cards retain the face value. Face cards (kings, queens, jacks) carry the same value of 10. Aces can be counted as either 1 or 11 depending on the context of the hand.
3. Placing Bets: Once at the table, place your desired bet within the specified limits (the table rules will dictate betting limits, such as the maximum and minimum bets). Betting options may include main bets as well as blackjack side bets for added excitement.
4. Receiving Initial Cards: After the original bet is placed, the live dealer will commence the game by dealing the first two cards to each player, including themselves. Players’ cards are usually dealt face up, while one of the dealer’s cards remains face down (the hole card).
5. Player Actions: Evaluate your initial two cards and the dealer’s upcard and decide on your next move:
   • Hit: Request an additional card to improve your hand.
   • Stand: Keep your current hand without requesting more cards.
   • Double Down: Double your initial bet and receive one more card.
   • Split: If dealt a pair, split the cards into two separate hands, each with its own bet. A second bet (equal to the first) will have to be placed. Split aces and eights are very popular.
6. Dealer’s Turn: Once all players have made their decisions, the dealer reveals their hole card. The dealer follows a set of rules for drawing additional cards (hits) or standing based on their hand value (some table rules dictate that dealers hit on soft hands of 17).
7. Determining Winners: Compare the total value of your hand with the dealer cards. If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s without exceeding it, you win. If the dealer busts (exceeds 21), all remaining players win.
8. Payouts: Payouts are made based on the outcome of the round. Standard payouts usually include even money for a regular win and additional payouts for specific hands, such as Blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card).
9. Preparing for the Next Round: After payouts, players can place new bets for the next round. The live dealer blackjack game continues with a new set of hands, repeating the process.

WHAT MAKES BLACKJACK DIFFERENT FROM OTHER LIVE CASINO GAMES?

While live dealer blackjack shares similarities with other live casino games, it stands out for its simplicity and skill-based nature.

Unlike games of pure chance, such as roulette, blackjack requires a strategic approach, and it also offers the opportunity for card counting.

Players can influence the outcome by making informed decisions based on their cards and the dealer’s face-up card.

This element of skill adds an extra layer of excitement and makes live dealer blackjack one of the most popular games among casino enthusiasts since the house edge depends on how the game is being played.

THE MOST IMPORTANT BENEFITS OF PLAYING LIVE BLACKJACK IN ONLINE CASINOS OFFER

Here are a few reasons why you should really take advantage of live dealer blackjack in live dealer casinos:

• Authentic Casino Experience: You can interact with real, live dealers in real-time and experience the sights and sounds of a live casino environment.
• Convenience: Play from the comfort of your home at any time. Access live dealer blackjack tables on various devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
• Variety of Tables: Choose from a variety of live dealer blackjack tables with different betting limits. Enjoy a personalised gaming experience with table rules that cater to your preferences.
• Enhanced Social Interaction: Engage with the dealer and fellow players through live chat. Experience the social aspect of casino gaming without leaving your home.
• Transparency and Fairness: Witness the entire game in real-time without chalking everything up to a Random Number Generator. Eliminate concerns about the fairness of computer-generated outcomes thanks to a real dealer managing the conduct of the game.

STRATEGIES FOR PLAYING BLACKJACK WITH A LIVE DEALER BLACKJACK

Blackjack players starting their journey at a live dealer blackjack table should know more than just basic strategy, although it will somewhat suffice at first.

Here are some general strategies you should look to adopt before playing live dealer blackjack games.

• Card Composition Analysis: This involves keen observation of the cards dealt to both yourself and fellow players. By discerning the composition of the deck, you can estimate the likelihood of certain cards appearing. More advanced players may delve into card counting techniques, such as the Hi-Lo method, adjusting their bets based on the count to capitalise on favourable situations. A nuanced understanding of the cards in play contributes significantly to strategic decision-making.
• Table Selection: When strategising for success, carefully evaluate different tables, each with varying bet limits and rules. Opt for tables that align with your preferred betting range and feature player-friendly rules. Additionally, consider less popular tables, as a less congested setting can enhance decision-making speed and contribute to a more relaxed and focused gaming atmosphere.
• Bankroll Management: Begin by setting clear win and loss limits for each gaming session. This disciplined approach ensures that you don’t chase losses or jeopardise significant wins. Furthermore, explore progressive betting systems cautiously, adjusting your bets based on the outcome of each hand. Understanding and implementing solid bankroll management strategies safeguard your finances and contribute to a more sustainable and enjoyable gaming experience.
• Insurance Betting: Familiarise yourself with the concept of insurance, which is typically offered when the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace. While it can act as a form of protection against the dealer having a Blackjack, its use should be judicious. Consider taking insurance when holding a strong hand and the deck is rich in 10-value cards. Conversely, it may be wise to avoid insurance bets in situations where the odds are less favourable.
• Soft Hand Strategy: Soft hands include an Ace that can be counted as either 1 or 11. Develop a nuanced approach for playing these hands, considering the dealer’s face-up card. In situations where you have a soft hand, such as Ace-2 or Ace-3, doubling down when the dealer has a weak upcard is a strategic move that can maximise potential gains.
• Hard Hand Strategy: For hands without an Ace or with an Ace valued at 1, a solid hard hands strategy is essential. In situations where you have a hard total on the higher end, standing is often the prudent choice. Balancing your approach to hard hands, whether through hitting, standing, or doubling down, forms a crucial component of a well-rounded Blackjack strategy when playing with a live dealer.

HOW TO WIN LIVE DEALER BLACKJACK?

Winning at live dealer Blackjack involves a combination of strategic decision-making, understanding the game’s dynamics, and disciplined gameplay.

First and foremost, mastering basic blackjack strategy is fundamental.

Familiarise yourself with optimal plays for different situations, considering factors such as what the dealer shows and what your total hand value is.

Consistent adherence to basic strategy helps minimise the house edge, putting you in a stronger position over the long run.

Additionally, effective bankroll management is crucial, as we’ve mentioned above.

AVAILABLE LIVE DEALER BLACKJACK ACTIONS

Here’s a quick breakdown of the available actions in live dealer blackjack:

• Hit: Request another card to improve your hand.
• Stand: Keep your current hand without requesting more cards.
• Double Down: Double your initial bet and receive one more card.
• Split: If dealt a pair, split the cards into two separate hands, each with its own bet.
• Insurance: A side bet to protect against the dealer having a blackjack.

BEST TIPS ON HOW TO WIN LIVE BLACKJACK GAME

Winning in live dealer blackjack, much like online blackjack, depends on many factors, some of which can be influenced by yourself.

Although luck does have a big say when it comes to who ends up winning, it doesn’t have to be the deciding factor every time.

Here’s a few ways to start winning in live dealer blackjack:

• Incorporate Basic Strategy: Employing basic Blackjack strategy is fundamental to success. Familiarise yourself with optimal plays for different situations, considering factors such as the dealer upcard and your card value. Consistent adherence to basic strategy helps minimize the house edge, putting you in a stronger position over the long run.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated on the rules of live dealer blackjack and any variations in the specific online casino you are playing. Continuous refinement of your knowledge of basic Blackjack strategy is essential. This ongoing learning process empowers you to make informed decisions during gameplay, giving you a strategic edge.
• Use Blackjack Side Bets Wisely: Be aware that most side bets come with a higher house edge, and their outcomes are often more unpredictable. Consider incorporating side bets selectively based on your risk tolerance.

WHAT SHOULD YOU AVOID WHEN PLAYING LIVE BLACKJACK?

Avoiding certain pitfalls is crucial when playing live dealer Blackjack to ensure a more enjoyable and successful gaming experience.

Firstly, steer clear of ignoring basic strategy. Straying from the proven strategy increases the house advantage and diminishes your chances of winning.

Familiarise yourself with optimal plays for different situations and adhere to them consistently. Secondly, resist the temptation to chase losses.

Playing emotionally and increasing bets in an attempt to recover losses quickly can lead to financial pitfalls.

Maintain a disciplined approach to bankroll management, setting predetermined limits for both wins and losses to safeguard your finances.

Thirdly, be mindful of table selection. Blindly joining any live dealer blackjack table may lead to unfavourable conditions.

Choose tables with suitable bet limits and player-friendly rules to optimize your chances of success.

Lastly, overlooking etiquette can negatively impact the gaming atmosphere. Practice good manners by interacting respectfully with the live dealer and fellow players.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ONLINE BLACKJACK AND LIVE BLACKJACK ONLINE CASINO

While live and online blackjack share some traits, significant differences exist between the two formats.

SIMILARITIES

Here are some similarities:

• Both versions follow standard rules of blackjack.
• Players aim to beat the dealer without exceeding 21.
• Similar betting options, including hit, stand, double down, and split.
• Side bets are available in both formats.
• Accessible on various devices, including desktops and mobile devices.
• Allows players to enjoy blackjack from the comfort of their homes.
• Counting cards is close to impossible.

DIFFERENCES

Here are some differences:

• Online blackjack features a computer-generated dealer.
• Live dealer blackjack includes a real, professional dealer with whom players can interact.
• Live dealer blackjack is streamed in real-time, offering an authentic casino experience.

LIVE DEALER BLACKJACK GAMES IN THE HOTSLOTS CASINO

Here at HotSlots, you can find the best selection of live dealer blackjack variants on the internet!

Not only does our Casino specialise in online blackjack, but our live variants are all-encompassing as a way to cater to the live casino fans out there.

These are the live dealer blackjack variants you can find at HotSlots:

• Power Blackjack: a live dealer blackjack variation developed by Evolution Gaming. It features a unique doubling option that allows players to double, triple, or quadruple their bets on any two initial dealt cards, even after a split. This can lead to potential high payouts, but it also increases the risk of losing your entire bet.
• Speed Blackjack: another live dealer blackjack variation developed by Evolution Gaming. It is designed to be played at a faster pace than traditional blackjack. The game is played with eight decks instead of six, and the dealer deals the cards at a faster rate. This can make the game more exciting for players who enjoy a faster-paced gaming experience.
• Free Bet Blackjack: a live dealer blackjack variation developed by Evolution Gaming. It offers selected “free double down” and “free split” bets. These bets are automatically offered to the player whenever their hand qualifies, so there is no effort required on the player’s part. Free Bet Blackjack also includes optional side bets and the Bet Behind feature.
• Infinite Blackjack: a live dealer blackjack variation developed by Evolution Gaming that offers an unlimited number of seats for players at a single table. This means that players never have to wait for a seat, and they can jump right into the action. Infinite Blackjack is available in both Classic and Power Blackjack variants.