Game evaluation

There are numerous factors to consider in evaluating any blackjack game. You want to play under the best conditions and have the best possible advantage over the house. You should consider the following factors before you sit down to play at any blackjack table.

• Number of decks – one is best, eight is worst
• Rule variations – Las Vegas strip rules are best, most Indian casinos are worst
• Level of deck penetration – 65 to 70 percent is minimum; the deeper the better
• Number of other players – one-on-one is best, three becomes marginal, four or more is bad
• Management “heat” – continually observe pit boss and floor man actions