What are the strategic considerations when faced with rules requiring hitting hard 17 or standing on soft 18?

[Huego213]

When faced with rules requiring hitting hard 17 or standing on soft 18, players should consider the following strategic factors:

1. New basic strategy: Players should adjust their basic strategy to account for these new rules. For example, players may need to hit on certain hands that would normally be a stand.

2. Increased variance: These rules can increase the variance of the game, as players may be forced to hit on weaker hands.

3. Bankroll management: Players should manage their bankroll carefully to account for the increased variance and potential losses.

 

[CR7]

In addition to the strategic considerations mentioned, players facing rules requiring hitting hard 17 or standing on soft 18 should also take into account the following factors:

4. Dealer Upcard: It's important to pay attention to the dealer's upcard when deciding whether to hit hard 17 or stand on soft 18. The dealer's upcard can influence the likelihood of the dealer busting or improving their hand, which can impact your decision.

5. House Edge: Understand the impact of these rule variations on the house edge. Generally, rules that require hitting on hard 17 or standing on soft 18 can increase the house edge, so it's crucial to be aware of how these rules affect your overall odds of winning.

6. Card Counting: If you are an advanced player who uses card counting techniques, these rule variations can change your strategy and how you count cards. Be sure to adjust your card counting system accordingly to optimize your advantage.

7. Table Limits: Consider the table limits when playing under these rules. Higher variance can lead to larger swings in your bankroll, so make sure the table limits are in line with your bankroll management strategy.

By taking these additional factors into account, players can make more informed decisions when faced with rules requiring hitting hard 17 or standing on soft 18, ultimately improving their overall blackjack gameplay.