Whether you’re a seasoned Blackjack player looking to mix things up or you’re brand new to the game, the One Hand One Deck Blackjack game is a great option for you. The rules are simple, straightforward, and easy to remember. All you need to learn the gameplay is a little motivation and some basic mental maths skills, making this variation of Blackjack one of the most user-friendly casino games out there. In this One Hand One Deck Blackjack Guide, you’ll discover how to play the game, understand the rules, and learn strategies to maximize your bankroll. We’ll also share blackjack tips that the pros rely on for success. Lastly, get answers to frequently asked questions about One Hand One Deck Blackjack and read reviews from fellow players.
One Hand One Deck Blackjack Guide: Learning How to Play
The One Hand One Deck Blackjack game is well-known for its easy-to-follow rules, exciting gameplay, and no-frills entertainment. If you’re a beginner, the game is a great option since you can play at a slow pace without impeding others. The object of the game is simple: get as close to 21 as possible without going over.
As is the case with other variations of the game, the only person you must beat is the dealer. Even if there are other players at the table with you, the only hand that matters is the dealer’s and you will all strive to get a higher number than him.
At an online casino, to begin playing one hand one deck blackjack, the dealer will hand out two cards to each player, both face-up on the table. Then, he will deal two cards to himself – one face-up, called the upcard, and one face-down called the hole card. The upcard is observed by all players and helps determine what their next move will be.
Actions to Take During the Game
As long as the dealer doesn’t have Blackjack, the game begins. After taking inventory of their cards, each player has one of four options to proceed:
- Hit: Indicates that a player wishes to receive another card
- Stand: A player refuses additional cards
- Split: If two cards of the same value are dealt in the starting hand, the player can choose to put a second bet down and split them into hands.
- Double Down: If the starting hand is favorable and the player believes receiving one more card would be beneficial to the hand, they can double down to increase their bet and the amount of money they will win for a winning hand
If a player decides to hit or double down and it causes their hand to go over 21, that is called a bust. When a player busts, they are immediately eliminated from the game and must forfeit their bet.
Once everyone has either busted or chosen to stand, the dealer flips over the hole card to reveal his second card and the value of his hand. If the total is soft 17 or less, he must hit until he exceeds 17, even if it causes him to bust. Once these requirements are met, players whose card totals exceed the dealer’s are paid out, and those who don’t forfeit their bet. Any players whose total ties with the dealer keep their bet in what is called a “push”.
Game Rules
The One Hand One Deck Blackjack game is among the easiest versions of the game to learn. Since the number of cards in the mix is smaller, it also boasts some of the highest player advantage numbers in the game. If you want to play one hand one deck blackjack, you need to know a few basic rules first:
- The game is played with one deck of 52 cards.
- The deck is shuffled at the end of each round.
- Players are only permitted to play one hand at a time.
- Double down is only allowed on hard hands of 9,10, or 11
- Players may split their hand up to three times.
- Aces can be split one time and hit one time each.
- If Aces are split and a ten is dealt, it does not count as a Blackjack.
- Blackjack pays 3:2 other winning hands pay 1:1.
Since gameplay relies on the sum of the cards in your hand, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with what each card is worth:
- J, K, Q: 10
- Ace: 1 or 11, depending on other cards in the hand
- All other cards are valued according to their number
Before we can move on to winning strategies, there are two types of hands you must be aware of, soft hands and hard hands.
Soft Hands
A soft hand in One Hand One Deck Blackjack is any hand that contains an Ace in it. These are called soft hands because the value of the Ace changes based on the other cards in the hand. It is typically easier to score a winning hand when an Ace is present since the player’s chances of exceeding 21 are greatly diminished.
Hard Hands
A hard hand is any hand in Blackjack that does not contain an Ace. Since cards must be taken at face value and do not change, it is considered more difficult to get a winning hand when an Ace is not present, hence the name “hard” hand.
Strategies for the One Hand One Deck Blackjack Game
The One Hand One Deck Blackjack game is the Blackjack variety that has the lowest house edge. Even though this means that you have a better chance against the house than with other versions of the game, you need a good strategy if you want to maximize your winnings.
No matter what the house advantage is, Blackjack is still equal parts skill and luck when it comes to winning. Sharpening your strategy skills is arguably the best way to win the most money in one hand one deck blackjack. The best way to break down blackjack strategy is based on the type of hand you have:
Soft Hand Strategies
The dealer’s upcard in this game has the most influence on your strategy. When it comes to soft hands in one hand one deck blackjack, consider the following:
When the dealer’s upcard is 4-6:
Double down on soft 13-16, otherwise, hit
When the dealer’s upcard is -6:
Double down on soft 17, otherwise, hit
When the dealer’s upcard is 3-6:
Double down on soft 18
Stand on soft, 7, or 8
Hit on 9, 10, or Ace
Always stand when:
The soft total is 20 or 21
Hard Hand Strategies
Hard hands don’t include Aces, which means they are not as flexible as soft hands. However, with a solid strategy, you can still win with a hard hand. Follow these guidelines for your best shot at winning with a hard hand in one hand one deck blackjack:
When the dealer’s upcard is -6:
Double down on hard 9
Stand on hard 13, 14, 15, or 16
Otherwise, hit
When the dealer’s upcard is 5 or 6:
Double down on hard 8, otherwise, hit
When the dealer’s upcard is -9:
Double down on hard 10, otherwise, hit
When the dealer’s upcard is 4-6:
Stand on hard 12, otherwise, hit
In addition to these guidelines:
Always double down on hard 11
Always stand on hard 17-21
Splitting Pairs
Splitting pairs is a great way to further tip the scales in your favor at the One Hand One Deck Blackjack table. When you are dealt two cards of the same value in your first two cards, you can choose to place a second bet to “split” them into their own hands. Here are some rules of thumb you can use to make the splitting pairs strategy as simple as possible:
Always split Aces and 8’s
Never split 10’s
When the dealer’s upcard is 3-7:
Split pairs of
When the dealer’s upcard is 4-7:
Split pairs of 3
When the dealer’s upcard is 4-6:
Split pairs of 4
When the dealer’s upcard is -7:
Split pairs of 6’s and 7’s
When the dealer’s upcard is -6 or 8-9:
Split pairs of 7
Pros and Cons
There are so many variations of Blackjack out there today, that it can be difficult to tell which one is the right one for you. No matter what version you choose, you can count on the object of the game to be the same: get as close to 21 as you can without going over. The One Hand One Deck Blackjack game is a great fit for Blackjack fanatics and newbies alike, but there are advantages and disadvantages to the game that you should know.
Pros
One of the most obvious benefits of this game is the house edge. Since only one deck is used, the casino has a lesser advantage. This is great for players, but you still must understand the rules and employ an effective strategy if you hope to win consistently.
Cons
Even though players enjoy a more level playing field, there are some disadvantages, as well. The game is still based on an even combination of luck and skill, so you must practice before you will win consistently.
Conclusion
The One Hand One Deck Blackjack game also tends to run at a slower pace when compared to other versions of the game, so if you enjoy a fast-paced environment, it may not be the right option for you. The game offers a refreshing twist on the classic game, with straightforward rules and strategic play. Whether you’re a veteran or a newcomer, this variation promises both simplicity and challenge. With a minimal house edge, it’s an attractive choice, though its slower pace may not suit everyone. Nonetheless, with skillful play and understanding, it provides a rewarding experience for avid Blackjack enthusiasts.
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One Hand One Deck Blackjack Guide FAQs
Is one hand one deck blackjack rigged?
All casino games have a degree of house advantage. One hand one deck blackjack is among those card games with the least amount of house advantage, though, which means players enjoy a more level playing field with this variation.
What does it mean to bust in one hand one deck blackjack?
When you bust in blackjack, it means that your card total went over 21.
How to win every time in one hand one deck blackjack?
Since blackjack is based upon equal parts skill and luck, it’s impossible to win every time. You can increase your chances of beating the dealer by using a sound blackjack strategy, though.
What happens when the dealer gets blackjack?
If the dealer reveals blackjack at the top of a round, all players who don’t also have blackjack forfeit their bets. Ties push, which means that the bet is not forfeited or paid out on.
How many cards are in a blackjack deck?
One hand one deck blackjack features one 52-card deck, which includes all standard cards except the Jokers.