Tag: edge

Viewing 1 - 4 out of 4 Blogs.

Deal Me In by Mark Pilarski

February 26, 2009

Ah, Sweet Surrender

Dear Mark: I have been counseled that a "surrender" bet is a bet that favors the house in blackjack. I have played blackjack for a long time, and understand the basic strategy. It seems to me that in selected situations, a surrender move is an advantage. What is your opinion about surrendering? Dirk

Blackjack players should always play in casinos that offer favorable rules. To avo... Read More

Deal Me In by Mark Pilarski

February 19, 2010

Maybe once in 800 hours of swift play, maybe not

Dear Mark: If these two games were to be played correctly, which is better to play, blackjack or video poker? I would argue that it is video poker, simply because it offers a large jackpot if you hit a royal, whereas blackjack doesn't. Donald B.

If you were to utilize expert play on both video poker and perfect basic strategy on blackjack (a 9/6 jacks-or-better v... Read More

Deal Me In by Mark Pilarski

January 22, 2010

Cinco dos, adios

Dear Mark: I've been reading your column recently on craps betting and I agree with you regarding keeping the house advantage below two percent. However, since my recent retirement I've had the opportunity to play 3-4 times per week, and what I have noticed is that it seems like the most consistent winners are the Don't side players laying odds. Not big money, but consistent wins. I am currently a $5 pass li... Read More

Deal Me In by Mark Pilarski

May 22, 2009

Spread Your Action Around

Dear Mark: The casino where I play cut back on the perks I normally receive. Is there anything I can do about it? Tim D.

I made mention a few weeks back, Tim, that it baffled me that some casinos are making wholesale changes to their video poker machines, hoping to improve their theoretical hold during these tough times. It appears another recessionary cost-cutting plan is to cut back on perks,... Read More