Blackjack is unique because strategy can dramatically reduce the house edge. Using basic strategy (the mathematically optimal play for every hand) brings the house edge down to ~0.5%. Here are the core rules:
Always Do This
- Always split Aces and 8s
- Always stand on hard 17 or higher
- Always double down on 11 vs dealer 2–10
- Always hit on hard 8 or less
- Never take Insurance (house edge: 6%+)
Never Do This
- Never split 10s (you have a great hand)
- Never stand on 12–16 vs dealer 7–Ace
- Never stand on soft 17 (A+6)
- Never split 4s, 5s (treat as hard hand)
- Never take Insurance unless counting cards