Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The rules are simple, the gameplay is fast-paced, and the potential for big wins is always there.
But despite its simplicity, there are a few terms and concepts that can be confusing for beginners. One of these is “soft 17.” In this article, we’ll explain what a soft 17 is in blackjack and why it matters.
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First of all, let’s define what we mean by “17” in blackjack. This refers to the total value of a player’s hand. In blackjack, cards have point values as follows:
– Number cards (2 through 10) are worth their face value
– Face cards (jacks, queens, and kings) are worth 10 points each
– Aces can be worth either 1 or 11 points
So if a player had a hand consisting of a king (10 points) and a seven (7 points), their total would be 17.
But what about “soft” 17? This term refers to a hand that contains an ace that is currently being counted as 11 points. For example, if a player had an ace (11 points) and a six (6 points), their total would also be 17 – but this time it would be considered a soft 17 because the ace could also be counted as just one point.
Why does this matter? Well, in some blackjack games, the dealer must hit on any total of less than 17 and stand on any total of 17 or higher. However, if the dealer has a soft 17 – say, an ace and a six – they must hit again according to traditional blackjack rules.
This means that if you’re playing against a dealer who has to hit on soft 17s, they have more opportunities to improve their hand than they would otherwise. This can make the game slightly more challenging for players, as it increases the likelihood that the dealer will end up with a higher total than you.
Of course, not all blackjack games require dealers to hit on soft 17s. Some games allow them to stand instead, which gives players a slight advantage. It’s always a good idea to check the rules of the specific game you’re playing before placing your bets.
To summarize: a soft 17 is a hand that contains an ace counted as 11 points, and it matters because dealers in some blackjack games must hit on soft 17s. Knowing whether or not this rule applies can help you adjust your strategy and make more informed decisions at the table.
Hopefully this article has cleared up any confusion you may have had about soft 17s in blackjack. Good luck at the tables!
