Blackjack is often referred to as the "king of casino games" for a good reason. It's a game that has been around for centuries, dating back to the 1700s. It combines strategy, skill, and chance, making it a favourite among players of all skill levels.
But have you ever stopped to think about the number of decks used in the game? Sure, it may not seem like a big deal at first glance, but the number of decks used in blackjack can make a significant difference.
In this post, we'll be taking a deep dive into the world of blackjack and exploring whether or not the number of decks used in the game really matters.
How Many Decks are Usually Used In Blackjack?
In most casinos and slot sites, blackjack is played with either six or eight decks of cards. That means when a game of blackjack starts, six or eight decks of cards are shuffled together.
The dealer then deals cards to the players from this shoe. The number of decks used in blackjack doesn't really matter in the grand scheme because you still get dealt two cards. However, most casinos prefer to play with multiple decks.
Using multiple decks reduces the chances of card counting, as it becomes more challenging to keep track of the cards as they are dealt when there are more decks in play. More decks also reduce the number of times the dealer needs to shuffle the cards.
Why Do Casinos Use Multiple Decks In Blackjack?
There are several reasons why casinos use multiple decks in blackjack. One of the main reasons is to reduce the chances of card counting. Card counting is a technique some players use to keep track of the cards that have been dealt in the game.
The player can use the information they attain from card counting to gain an advantage over the casino. However, using multiple decks makes it more difficult for players to keep track of the cards and gain an advantage.
Another reason would be to increase the house edge. The house edge is the casino's advantage over the players in any game. The more decks that are used in the game, the higher the house edge becomes.
That is because the odds of certain cards being dealt are reduced when more decks are in play. So, that means the casino has a better chance of winning in a game with multiple decks.
Is More Decks Better For Blackjack?
It depends on who is asking. For the house, the answer may be yes. More decks can mean more opportunities for the house to win. The reason for this is simple, the more decks used in the game, the higher the house edge. If a single deck is used, the house would have the least amount of odds.
That is because the odds of certain cards being dealt are higher when there are fewer decks but lower if more decks are in play. That means the casino has a better chance of winning in a game with multiple decks.
So, using more decks is better for the house but not so much for you as the player. Especially if you are a seasoned player looking to employ the card-counting strategy, that is probably one of the main reasons why casinos use multiple decks in blackjack.
By using multiple decks, it becomes more difficult for players to keep track of the cards and gain an advantage. But if you're an average player who just wants to enjoy the game, more decks shouldn't be a concern.
Is Single Deck Blackjack Better Than Multi-Deck?
Some players may argue that single-deck blackjack is better than multi-deck blackjack. The reasoning is that single-deck blackjack offers a lower house edge, which means that you, as the player, have a better chance of winning. That is because the odds of certain cards being dealt are higher when there is only one deck in play.
Another advantage of single-deck blackjack is that it's easier for players to keep track of the cards that have been dealt. That is ideal for players who use card counting as a strategy. Of course, card counting becomes more complicated when there are more decks in play, but with single-deck blackjack, it's much easier to keep track of the cards.
However, most players would tell you that single-deck blackjack is a terrible game because of all the rules blackjack can have. For example, double downs might be restricted, or there might be a rule that the dealer hits soft 17 instead of standing on soft 17.
That tips the odds in favour of the house. But, you are more likely to get a natural when playing with a single deck than you would with multiple decks.
A natural is a blackjack hand. It happens if your first two cards make up 21 with an Ace and a ten card.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the number of decks used in blackjack does matter, but not necessarily in the way that many players think. While it may not make a huge difference for the average player, it can significantly impact the chances of winning for professional players or those who use card counting as a strategy.
Ultimately, it's up to each individual player to decide which option is best for them. However, it is also essential to know the game variations offered by the casino and the house edge they have. Knowing this can help you make a more informed decision.
It doesn’t matter if you play with one deck or multiple decks; the most important thing when playing both casino and slot games is to have fun and enjoy the game.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time.