Common Myths in Blackjack: Separating Facts from Fiction
Live Blackjack confidently holds leading positions among the most popular online casino games. This comes as no surprise, considering that this game is a fascinating mix of strategy, skill, and, as it usually goes in gambling, a little bit of luck.
But many newbie players who feel tempted to try this game might also experience some discomfort due to the sheer volume of myths surrounding live blackjack. Some of them can be absurd but others are surprisingly believable. So, we don’t judge you for looking for information to put those myths to rest — we are here to help make your online gambling adventure smooth and enjoyable.
So, low and behold — the guide that will bust all the most popular myths surrounding live blackjack. Not only that but we will elaborate on why these myths appeared and what’s the actual truth behind each misconception. Hopefully, by handing you all the cards, we will help you feel more confident at any of the live blackjack tables and focus on what matters – the gaming process.
Play smarter, enjoy yourself, and maybe even beat the dealer. From card counting’s “illegal” reputation to the age-old “gambler’s fallacy,” let’s separate fact from fiction. Ready to clear the air? Let’s get started!
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Myth 1: Card Counting is Illegal
Card counting is probably the most scrutinized topic when it comes to live blackjack. By now it has become an almost legendary move glamorized in movies and demonized by casinos. We are here to set the record straight and to tell you all about this practice.
The mere act of counting cards will not get you in trouble with the law. You won’t get escorted from a casino by the police and you won’t face criminal charges. Variations of circumstances may apply, of course — let’s say, you are not of legal age to gamble or games of chance are against the law where you live. But that’s different from getting in legal trouble for counting cards.
That being said, casinos really don’t like when you do it. After all, what gambling business would appreciate a skillful, focused player coming in, not giving in to emotions, maintaining composure, and busting the bank? Casinos are always about keeping the edge to themselves. This is why they usually employ blackjack players who are experts in card counting and are paid to catch any players guilty of practicing this approach.
When it comes to live dealer blackjack, card counting is not even a thing. Thanks to continuous shuffling machines at regular and private tables, the deck is reset regularly, making tracking cards nearly impossible. So it becomes more about you wasting your skills and focusing on a strategy that won’t pay off. And it’s as simple as that.
In our opinion, if you are curious about the strategy, definitely explore it! Read up, and practice in a safe environment. This is like an homage to great players who paved the way. However, this advice should not be viewed as a call to action for real casino play — this risk is up to you to take.
Myth 2: The Dealer is Out to Get You
It is easy to feel suspicious towards someone you meet for the first time and who plays on the side of a casino, especially if these are your first gambling sessions and you feel vulnerable enough as it is. Or if you are on a losing streak and feeling beat already.
Spoiler alert: the dealer is not the enemy. They don’t have a personal agenda targeted against you, they are merely there doing their job. Any dealer has to follow the house rules and deal cards.
Plus, when it comes to live blackjack, the entire action is particularly transparent. These days, tables are filmed from multiple angles so that you can see everything — from the dealer’s hands to cards and their facial expressions.
Not only that but every live software provider (the legit and reputable ones) is under constant audits and strict regulations and must ensure fairness with every game available in their portfolio.
The best mindset to take with you into any live blackjack round is to believe that dealers are actually rooting for you. You are the client, and it’s best you have some good times, or else you might not be coming back. Plus, software these days includes tips for dealers.
If you are on a losing streak, keep in mind that even with all the strategies that you use, blackjack is still a game of chance. If the losing streak affects your emotions, pull out of the game and take care of yourself. You are always welcome to refer to the live forums to request some support from fellow players, too.
Myth 3: You’re Due for a Win
If you are just getting started at live blackjack then chances are that very soon you’ll hear the phrase “I’m due for a win!”. At certain points, many of us players have resorted to this magical phrase during a losing streak. Unfortunately, surface optimism is the only benefit that can be expected from saying it. This belief, known as the gambler’s fallacy, assumes that past outcomes influence future results. Spoiler: they don’t.
Any trusted strategy that you refer to will immediately warn you that in blackjack, every hand is independent. Those countless cards in the shoe don’t know anything about the outcomes you scored in previous rounds. Believing you’re “due” for any positive outcome can lead to emotional, poorly planned bets, which usually end badly.
If the losing streak happens to you, the best advice would be to stay true to the strategy and keep an eye on the bankroll. Any streak, be it a losing or a winning one, will come and go. What you are in charge of is staying cool and collected.
Myth 4: Always Assume the Dealer Has a 10
Ah, another ageless classic: “No matter what happens, assume the one card in the dealer’s hand that you don’t see is a 10.”
The part that’s real is that 10-value cards (these are all the 10s, Jacks, Queens, and Kings) are the numerous ones in the deck. However, this fact alone does not guarantee that that’s what the dealer always has.
Let’s bring in some more facts since we are on a route to busting myths. 10-value cards take about 30% of the deck. Is this a big enough number for you to assume that the card the dealer holds face-down is a 10? Not exactly.
The downside of being suspicious is you get very cautious and miss out on good opportunities to grab the bull by the horns and sometimes stand when you really shouldn’t. A more viable strategy would be to stick to the basic charts that suggest the best moves for every situation. Trust the math, not the myths.
Myth 5: Never Split 10s
This one is where it gets very hard to separate a myth from reality. In fact, many experienced players and guides (including ours) will recommend that you don’t split the 10s. After all, a pair of 10s is a solid 20 — as close to a win as it can sometimes get, so why throw it out of the window?
While the advice is solid, there is an exception to every rule. Let’s explore the situation where you’re playing at a high-stakes table and the dealer shows a weak card (like a 5 or 6). In this case, splitting 10s could be a bold move but also one worth the risk. Experienced players can consider going for it if they have enough emotional stability, confidence, and a good bankroll to fall back on.
When you look at things from this perspective it becomes clear why some live blackjack players are better off sticking to their 20 in a hand. Know your comfort level and play accordingly.
Myth 6: Blackjack is All Luck, No Skill
If you’ve ever thought blackjack is just a game of chance, think again. Unlike slots, where luck is the main factor, blackjack involves a hefty dose of skill. Knowing when to hit, stand, double down, or split can make all the difference.
That’s where basic strategy comes in. These tried-and-true guidelines are based on math and give you the best odds against the house. Combine that with good bankroll management, and you’re already ahead of most players.
Live dealer games add another layer of skill. Watching the dealer, analyzing the flow of the game, and staying sharp under pressure are all part of the experience. So, while luck plays a role, don’t underestimate the power of a solid strategy.
Myth 7: Side Bets Are Harmful
There is way too much anxiety around side bets and not all of it is justified. What’s true is that any side bet will always increase the house edge. So, the odds are not always in your favor, is it really that dangerous?
If we are to rely on facts, then let’s take a look at the Perfect Pairs side bet, for example. This side bet is a favorite one among many players and for a good reason. It adds fun to the round and, if it works, that’s some extra cash for you. If it doesn’t? That happens, too, and if you have some wiggle room in your bankroll strategy, you will appreciate the side bet for serving an entertaining purpose.
Where things go South is when you start relying on side bets, treating them as a main strategy and as your main source of income in the game. That’s when odds that work against you will also affect you.
If you decide to try side bets, set a limit and stick to it. They’re not for everyone, but they can add a little spice to your game. Just don’t let them distract you from the main event.
Myth 8: Casino Promotions Are Always Beneficial
Who doesn’t love a good promotion? From welcome bonuses to cashback offers, casinos know how to lure players with shiny deals. But here’s the catch: not all promotions are as beneficial as they seem.
All live blackjack bonuses come with wagering requirements, which means you’ll need to play through a certain amount before withdrawing your winnings. Additionally, some deals limit the contribution of live blackjack toward the requirements or exclude this game at all. Always read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure the deal works for your favorite games.
That’s not to say promotions aren’t worth it. They can be a great way to extend your bankroll, especially if you’re already planning to play. Just be selective about your bonuses and understand what you’re signing up for. The real benefit lies in knowing how to make these offers work for you, not the other way around.
Popular Live Blackjack Games to Try
While seemingly a very traditional game with a set of cemented rules, live blackjack is in fact very versatile. Numerous providers have figured out a way to add unique flavors to the game, and each of you will surely find a preferred modification. Here are some of the most popular live blackjack games to explore:
- Evolution Gaming’s Infinite Blackjack: This version allows unlimited players at a single table, so you’ll never have to wait for a spot. It also features side bets like Hot 3 and Bust It for extra excitement.
- Ezugi’s Unlimited Live Blackjack: Known for its immersive interface and friendly dealers, this game is perfect for those who want a straightforward yet engaging experience. Ezugi’s tables often come with multi-seat options and live chat.
- Vivo Gaming’s Classic Live Blackjack: This provider offers a sleek and professional environment with flexible betting ranges. It’s great for players looking for a seamless and polished experience.
- Pragmatic Play’s One Blackjack: A fresh take on the traditional action, the game includes innovative side bets and a unique “Crazy 7” feature that can lead to big payouts. Pragmatic Play’s tables also boast a vibrant and interactive atmosphere.
Exploring these variations can add a new layer of fun to your live blackjack journey. Try them out and see which one suits your style best.
Live Blackjack Myths: Final Thoughts
Unveiling popular live blackjack myths has been a long time coming. After all, these fallacies stick to our mindsets, easily affecting the way we play, tampering with our strategies, and contributing to anxiety. From card counting’s misunderstood legality to the illusion of being “due” for a win, these misconceptions can lead you astray faster than a bad split.
The upside to these myths is that we can all take the time to learn a bit more about our favorite game while separating misconceptions from facts. Those players who know more tend to feel more confident at the table. They tend to stay more present and have more fun in the game. This applies to rookie players, too. You may lack experience at the table but if you have all your facts straight, that’s half the battle.
So, shuffle up, take your seat at the live table, and play with confidence. And if anyone tries to sell you on a blackjack myth? Feel free to bust it like a pro.