If you’ve ever played blackjack, you know that the game combines a mix of skill and chance. While there is a basic strategy that can help guide your decisions, some players take it a step further by adjusting their moves based on what has already been dealt. These adjustments are called “deviations.”
Understanding deviations and how they fit into the game can help you make more informed choices as you play, whether you stick to basic strategy or decide to explore new techniques.
This blog will explain what blackjack deviations are, how they work, and when they might be useful for players who are more experienced and comfortable with the game.
What Are Blackjack Deviations?
In simple terms, deviations are small changes to the standard strategy that players may make during the game.
Basic strategy, which is based on the mathematical probabilities of blackjack, tells you the best potential move to make for each possible combination of cards. However, deviations come into play when players decide to adjust their decisions based on which cards have already been dealt.
For example, if you have a hand of 16 against a dealer’s 10, basic strategy suggests you should “hit” (ask for another card). However, if you know that many low cards have already been dealt, you might decide to “stand” (keep your hand) instead, because there could be a higher chance of a favourable card coming up.
Deviations are often associated with players who track the cards dealt, a technique called card counting. However, even without counting cards, players might adjust their strategy based on the situation at the table.
It’s important to keep in mind that using deviations doesn’t guarantee success, as blackjack is still a game of chance, and the house edge is always present.
Understanding The “True Count”
The “true count” is a system that helps advanced players track how many high and low cards may be left in the deck, which can influence their decisions.
To calculate the true count, players first maintain a “running count” by adding +1 for every low card (2-6) dealt, subtracting -1 for every high card (10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace), and leaving the 7, 8, and 9 as neutral (0).
Once the running count is calculated, players divide it by the number of decks remaining in the shoe (the set of cards being used).
For example, if the running count is +6 and three decks are left, the true count would be +2. A higher true count indicates that there may be more high cards left, which could potentially favour the player.
However, most online casinos, especially those like Mr Luck Casino, reshuffle the deck frequently, which limits the effectiveness of card counting and the true count system. In these games, adjusting strategy based on the true count is less useful, as the deck is reset often, and the sequence of cards is random.
It’s also worth noting that while card counting is not illegal in the UK, land-based or online casinos may refuse service or remove players who are believed to be using it.
Casinos are private establishments and can choose who they allow to play. This means that even if someone is not breaking the law, using counting techniques could lead to being asked to leave, or being banned from certain tables.
Common Blackjack Deviations List
Here are some of the most common deviations some players may consider making based on the cards already dealt:
Standing on 16 against a dealer’s 10 when the count is high Normally, basic strategy tells you to “hit” on 16 against a dealer’s 10. But if there have been many low cards dealt, players might “stand” instead, believing the remaining high cards could help.
Doubling down on 10 against a dealer’s Ace when the count is high While basic strategy suggests just “hitting” in this situation, players might choose to “double down” (double their bet and receive only one more card) if they believe the deck may have more high-value cards.
Taking insurance when the count is high According to basic strategy, “insurance” (a side bet placed when the dealer shows an Ace) is usually not recommended, as it generally increases the house edge. However, if many high cards have been dealt, some players might consider it as a way to try and protect their bet.
Standing on 12 against a dealer’s 3 when the count is high Basic strategy would suggest you “hit” on a 12 against a dealer’s 3. But with a high count, where more high cards remain, players may choose to “stand,” as they might believe hitting could lead to a bad result.
Doubling down on 9 against a dealer’s 2 with a high count Although basic strategy suggests hitting in this situation, some players may decide to “double down” if the count suggests more high cards may remain.
Standing on 15 against a dealer’s 10 when the count is high A typical recommendation would be to “hit” on a 15 against a dealer’s 10, but with a potentially high count, some players may opt to “stand,” believing the chances of a low card showing up may be higher.
Are Blackjack Deviations Worth Learning?
Whether you choose to learn deviations depends on how you approach the game.
Blackjack can be enjoyed simply by following basic strategy, which is based on the most mathematically sound approach for every hand. For many players, sticking to the basics provides a balanced experience without worrying about complex adjustments.
However, if you enjoy analysing patterns and have a good understanding of the game, you may find deviations interesting. Keep in mind, though, that even with these strategies, you still cannot eliminate the house edge, as the outcome of each hand is random.
For beginners, sticking with the basic strategy may be a good idea. It simplifies the game and offers the lowest house edge if used correctly. But for more advanced players, learning deviations can provide extra insight into the game and a deeper understanding of how card sequences can influence decisions.
Play Online Blackjack at Mr Luck Casino
If you want to experience blackjack firsthand, Mr Luck casino has a great selection of games, offering different rule sets and styles, so you can pick your favourite. There are also classic tables like roulette and baccarat, plus a wide choice of online slots. As an added bonus, you can try out the online sportsbook if you fancy something different.
Every game at Mr Luck, including blackjack, follows UK regulations and is certified by the UK Gambling Commission, so you can be assured that fair play and player safety are always at the forefront. If you decide to play, take time to check each game’s rules and set your own limits before you start.
Enjoy exploring blackjack your way, and remember that support is available if you need it.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games 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.
If you’ve ever played blackjack, you know that the game combines a mix of skill and chance. While there is a basic strategy that can help guide your decisions, some players take it a step further by adjusting their moves based on what has already been dealt. These adjustments are called “deviations.”
Understanding deviations and how they fit into the game can help you make more informed choices as you play, whether you stick to basic strategy or decide to explore new techniques.
This blog will explain what blackjack deviations are, how they work, and when they might be useful for players who are more experienced and comfortable with the game.
What Are Blackjack Deviations?
In simple terms, deviations are small changes to the standard strategy that players may make during the game.
Basic strategy, which is based on the mathematical probabilities of blackjack, tells you the best potential move to make for each possible combination of cards. However, deviations come into play when players decide to adjust their decisions based on which cards have already been dealt.
For example, if you have a hand of 16 against a dealer’s 10, basic strategy suggests you should “hit” (ask for another card). However, if you know that many low cards have already been dealt, you might decide to “stand” (keep your hand) instead, because there could be a higher chance of a favourable card coming up.
Deviations are often associated with players who track the cards dealt, a technique called card counting. However, even without counting cards, players might adjust their strategy based on the situation at the table.
It’s important to keep in mind that using deviations doesn’t guarantee success, as blackjack is still a game of chance, and the house edge is always present.
Understanding The “True Count”
The “true count” is a system that helps advanced players track how many high and low cards may be left in the deck, which can influence their decisions.
To calculate the true count, players first maintain a “running count” by adding +1 for every low card (2-6) dealt, subtracting -1 for every high card (10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace), and leaving the 7, 8, and 9 as neutral (0).
Once the running count is calculated, players divide it by the number of decks remaining in the shoe (the set of cards being used).
For example, if the running count is +6 and three decks are left, the true count would be +2. A higher true count indicates that there may be more high cards left, which could potentially favour the player.
However, most online casinos, especially those like Mr Luck Casino, reshuffle the deck frequently, which limits the effectiveness of card counting and the true count system. In these games, adjusting strategy based on the true count is less useful, as the deck is reset often, and the sequence of cards is random.
It’s also worth noting that while card counting is not illegal in the UK, land-based or online casinos may refuse service or remove players who are believed to be using it.
Casinos are private establishments and can choose who they allow to play. This means that even if someone is not breaking the law, using counting techniques could lead to being asked to leave, or being banned from certain tables.
Common Blackjack Deviations List
Here are some of the most common deviations some players may consider making based on the cards already dealt:
Standing on 16 against a dealer’s 10 when the count is high Normally, basic strategy tells you to “hit” on 16 against a dealer’s 10. But if there have been many low cards dealt, players might “stand” instead, believing the remaining high cards could help.
Doubling down on 10 against a dealer’s Ace when the count is high While basic strategy suggests just “hitting” in this situation, players might choose to “double down” (double their bet and receive only one more card) if they believe the deck may have more high-value cards.
Taking insurance when the count is high According to basic strategy, “insurance” (a side bet placed when the dealer shows an Ace) is usually not recommended, as it generally increases the house edge. However, if many high cards have been dealt, some players might consider it as a way to try and protect their bet.
Standing on 12 against a dealer’s 3 when the count is high Basic strategy would suggest you “hit” on a 12 against a dealer’s 3. But with a high count, where more high cards remain, players may choose to “stand,” as they might believe hitting could lead to a bad result.
Doubling down on 9 against a dealer’s 2 with a high count Although basic strategy suggests hitting in this situation, some players may decide to “double down” if the count suggests more high cards may remain.
Standing on 15 against a dealer’s 10 when the count is high A typical recommendation would be to “hit” on a 15 against a dealer’s 10, but with a potentially high count, some players may opt to “stand,” believing the chances of a low card showing up may be higher.
Are Blackjack Deviations Worth Learning?
Whether you choose to learn deviations depends on how you approach the game.
Blackjack can be enjoyed simply by following basic strategy, which is based on the most mathematically sound approach for every hand. For many players, sticking to the basics provides a balanced experience without worrying about complex adjustments.
However, if you enjoy analysing patterns and have a good understanding of the game, you may find deviations interesting. Keep in mind, though, that even with these strategies, you still cannot eliminate the house edge, as the outcome of each hand is random.
For beginners, sticking with the basic strategy may be a good idea. It simplifies the game and offers the lowest house edge if used correctly. But for more advanced players, learning deviations can provide extra insight into the game and a deeper understanding of how card sequences can influence decisions.
Play Online Blackjack at Mr Luck Casino
If you want to experience blackjack firsthand, Mr Luck casino has a great selection of games, offering different rule sets and styles, so you can pick your favourite. There are also classic tables like roulette and baccarat, plus a wide choice of online slots. As an added bonus, you can try out the online sportsbook if you fancy something different.
Every game at Mr Luck, including blackjack, follows UK regulations and is certified by the UK Gambling Commission, so you can be assured that fair play and player safety are always at the forefront. If you decide to play, take time to check each game’s rules and set your own limits before you start.
Enjoy exploring blackjack your way, and remember that support is available if you need it.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games 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.
