How to Bluff at Blackjack
Blackjack is one of the most popular games on online casinos and it’s no wonder when you consider that it’s easy to play, quick and accessible, and everyone from beginners to seasoned casino goers can have a go. You can also play anywhere, including with friends at home, on the train to pass the time or online: all you need is a deck of cards (real or virtual) and you’re ready.
While blackjack is a great game, the thrill of a potential win is undoubtedly one of the best things about it. And while many believe that it is entirely a game of chance, there are a number of things you can do to increase your odds and make a win all the more likely. Read on for our top tips on how to bluff at blackjack and get ready to be a casino whizz in no time at all.
Bluffing in blackjack comes in two forms: pretend to have a bad hand to make other players more reckless, or pretend to have a good one to trick them into surrendering. Your actual hand doesn’t really matter too much, since you’ll be keeping that secret til the last minute anyway; all that matters is to keep everything to yourself by keeping your emotions carefully under control.
If you have a bad hand, but the table you’re on doesn’t allow surrender, the best option is to pretend you have a great hand (or a blackjack). Do this by drawing another card slowly, as if you don’t really want to: this will suggest that you already have a good hand and don’t want to risk going over blackjack by drawing too high a card.
Once you’ve decided which way to bluff, you need to pop in subtle clues as to your mood. Sighing, raising your eyebrows or looking anxious are great ways of convincing opponents that you’re not doing so well, whereas looking smug or relaxing in your chair are good ‘tells’ for convincing them you have a great hand.
You also need to look at how you’re playing: are you playing as though you have a winning hand in front of you or not? If you can fool yourself then you’re doing well. However, don’t get too carried away, over the top expressions will be immediately obvious to a decent player as a bluff and they’ll be able to adjust their game accordingly.
When it comes to bluffing, remember that minor ‘tells’ can be more revealing than something bigger. With this in mind, be careful of every movement that you make: just because your face is set to make people believe you’re winning, it doesn’t mean your shoulders haven’t slumped and are making you look defeated. Some of the best players have given themselves away through tiny micro-expressions, so try to stay fully aware of yourself and the signals you’re giving off.
The amount you bet can also work as a method of bluffing as putting down large amounts suggests you’re confident of the outcome. However, remember that this method can backfire spectacularly, so try not to use it unless you’re desperate.
Of course, one of the best ways to secure a win at blackjack is to practice whenever you can. Invest in a deck of high-quality cards and practice at home, or try one of the casino games to improve your skill level and your ability to keep a cool head.
Practice can often make perfect and continually working on your game is one of the best ways to nab yourself a win. But remember, a win is never guaranteed, no matter how skilful you are, so relax, after all it’s just a game. Enjoying yourself is the number one objective, so don’t get too het up in odds and trying to read people, just have fun!
