A Different Way to Deal Blackjack

Dear Frank,

I recently played blackjack in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. In both casinos, the dealer dealt himself (or herself) one card face up. The dealer then did not take a second card until all players had played their hands.

Normally I would think that this would not affect Basic Strategy. However, since the dealer took all bets, including doubles or splits, if the dealer drew a blackjack, it would seem to affect doubling down or splitting when the dealeers showed a ten or ace.

What are your thoughts on this?

Also, are there any casinos in the continental U.S., including Native American Casinos, that deal this way? I will be at casinos in Minnesota in August and would like to be prepared if they deal this way.

Ephraim

Dear Ephraim:

If the dealer didn't take your doubles and splits when he had a blackjack (a bad rule for players), the game would be just the same as any blackjack game for basic strategy players. When the dealer gets his hole card does not affect the game but the other rules really do affect the game.

If you can avoid these games, do so. They are not good for players. There are so many casinos in America where you face a half percent hosue edge or less as a basic strategy player that it just isn't worth playing in games that are so bad as the ones you describe.

All the best in and out of the casinos!

Frank Scoblete