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Blackjack
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Considerations for Beginners
Following are some comments relative to general play and some tips for beginners.
Fewer Decks are Preferable
Try to play in games employing the fewest number of decks. The casino advantage lessens slightly as the number of decks drops. But more importantly, fewer decks usually means more shuffling. This is an important plus for beginners. Most novices do not play basic strategy perfectly. This means you will usually be playing at a disadvantage. More shuffling means fewer hands played and less exposure to the house edge. Do not play where blackjacks pay 6 to 5 even if they are single deck; these games have an enormous house edge and should be avoided.
Which Seat
This is unimportant. Some players think that you can better "control" the game by playing third base (the last seat to act). How? You're not psychic. You don't know which card will be next out of the deck. Playing third base will not allow you to exert any special control over the outcome of the hand. If anything, it's best to avoid the last seat. Other players often blame the third-base player when things don't go right. Who needs the aggravation?
The Other Players
Many blackjack players worry about the skill of other players at their table. This is also unimportant. Bad players who make bad plays will help you as often as they hurt you. Your hand is independent of theirs and, in the long run, unaffected by their mistakes.
Places to Begin
Beginners are understandably reluctant to sit down the first time. Your best bet is to play with a friend, and choose a low-limit game where you are less likely to run into players gambling for high stakes.
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