The blackjack dealer's strategy differs from the player's because the dealer must adhere to strict house rules, typically hitting on a soft 17 and standing on 17 or higher, without the flexibility to make personal decisions. In contrast, players have the freedom to strategize based on their hand, the dealer's upcard, and the game situation, allowing them to choose to hit, stand, double down, or split. This fundamental difference in decision-making creates distinct roles for the dealer and player, influencing the overall dynamics of the game.