Are you new to casino games and curious about how to play blackjack? Blackjack is one of the most popular card games, known for its mix of strategy and chance.
In blackjack, understanding whether to "hit" or "stand" is crucial, as these terms are fundamental actions you'll need to know to make the most of your hand.
In this Mega Reel blog, we'll guide you through the essential movements of hitting and standing in blackjack, helping you understand the basics to approach the game with confidence.
What Is Hit And Stand In Blackjack?
In blackjack, your goal is to have a hand value as close to 21 as possible without going over. This is where the decisions to "hit" or "stand" are vital, as they are key moves that can significantly affect your game strategy.
When you decide to "hit," you're requesting an additional card from the dealer. Hitting is generally a good choice when your hand total is low, and you believe another card will bring you closer to 21 without exceeding it. For instance, if your hand totals 11, taking a hit could increase your total while keeping the risk low.
On the other hand, choosing to "stand" means you're satisfied with your current hand and do not wish to receive any more cards. You may stand when your cards total a figure that you believe could win against the dealer's hand. For example, if you have a total of 18, you may decide to stand, hoping it's high enough to challenge the dealer.
The decision between hitting and standing should be based on both your hand and the dealer's visible card. If you "bust" by going over 21, you lose the round automatically, so choosing wisely is essential.
When Should You Hit In Blackjack?
Deciding when to hit in blackjack is a key aspect of developing a solid game strategy. The aim is to get as close to 21 as you can without exceeding it while also considering the dealer’s potential hand.
If your hand totals 8 or less, it’s generally safe to hit because your chances of busting are low, as high-value cards like 10s or face cards won’t put you above 21.
When your hand is between 12 and 16, this is where the game often gets interesting. If the dealer is showing a 7 or higher, it may seem risky to hit, but it's usually worth the chance. A strong dealer card suggests they could potentially end up with a winning hand, so increasing your score by taking a hit can be necessary to stay competitive.
If you have a total of 11, there’s a high chance you may draw a 10-valued card, giving you the perfect 21; however, it’s essential to remember that risks still exist, so consider the dealer's card before deciding.
It's important to keep an eye on the dealer's face-up card and be ready to adjust your strategy on the go, as this flexibility helps you make informed choices about when to hit.
When Should You Stand In Blackjack?
Knowing when to stand in blackjack is just as crucial as knowing when to hit. Standing means you're choosing to keep your current hand total, hoping it's strong enough to beat the dealer and win the round.
A general rule is to stand when your hand totals 17 or more, as your hand has a good chance of being competitive. With high-value hands like these, the risk of drawing a card that results in a bust is high, and standing is often the safer option.
If your hand totals between 12 and 16, the decision becomes more significant. If the dealer displays an up card between 2 and 6, they're more likely to bust. In such cases, standing could be wise, as forcing the dealer to play out their hand may work to your advantage without additional risk.
For hands known as 'soft' totals, where an ace can be counted as 1 or 11, it's important to choose wisely. A 'soft' 19 or 20 is typically strong enough to stand on, as these hands provide flexibility but rarely require risky decisions.
Play Blackjack Online
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At Mega Reel, you’ll find a user-friendly platform that caters to both beginners and seasoned players. With easy navigation and secure transactions, it's never been simpler to play from the comfort of your own home.
Play a variety of blackjack games that cater to different styles and preferences, providing a great opportunity for you to explore and enjoy this classic card game. Our platform is fully compliant with UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) regulations, ensuring a fair and responsible gaming environment.
Always remember to gamble responsibly for an enjoyable blackjack experience. Ensure your blackjack experience remains safe and entertaining by setting limits to your playing time, sticking to a strict budget within your means and making use of any responsible gambling tools available.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.