What Are Soft Numbers in Blackjack?

Blackjack, also known as 21, is a popular casino game that involves a combination of luck and skill. One of the key elements of this game is the concept of “soft numbers”. In this article, we will explore what soft numbers are in blackjack and how they can affect your gameplay.

Firstly, it is important to understand what a “soft number” is. In blackjack, a soft number refers to a hand that contains an Ace which can be counted as either 1 or 11. For example, if you have an Ace and a 6, your total hand value is 7 or 17 depending on whether you choose to count the Ace as 1 or 11.

Soft numbers are important because they give players more flexibility when it comes to deciding how to play their hand. For example, if you have a soft 17 (an Ace and a 6), you can choose to hit for another card without worrying about busting (going over 21) because even if you draw a high card that would normally push you over the limit, you can still count the Ace as 1 and stay below the threshold.

On the other hand, if you have a hard number (a hand without an Ace or with an Ace that must be counted as only one point), such as a total value of 12 from two sixes, hitting for another card could potentially lead to busting since any card with a value of ten would put you over the limit.

Overall, soft numbers give players more options and opportunities for strategic decision-making. However, it is important to remember that while having an Ace in your hand may seem like an advantage at first glance, it does not guarantee success in the game.

To make the most out of soft numbers in blackjack, here are some tips:

– Always pay attention to the dealer’s up-card. This will help guide your decision-making process based on the likelihood of the dealer having a strong hand.

– If you have a soft 17 or lower, it is generally recommended to hit for another card. This will increase your chances of improving your hand without risking going over 21.

– If you have a soft 18 or higher, it is usually best to stand (not take any more cards). This is because your hand is already fairly strong and hitting for another card could potentially lead to busting.

– Be aware of the rules regarding splitting Aces. Some casinos allow players to split their Ace cards into two separate hands, while others do not. Splitting Aces can be beneficial if done correctly, but it also comes with added risk.

In conclusion, soft numbers are an important concept in blackjack that can greatly impact your gameplay. By understanding how they work and using them strategically, you can increase your chances of success in this popular casino game.