Pontoon is a popular card game that is similar to blackjack but with a few key differences. In Pontoon, the objective is to get a hand that is closer to 21 than the dealer's hand, without going over 21. The game is played with a standard deck of 52 cards and is typically played with 2 to 8 players. In this article, we will discuss some strategies that can be used to improve your chances of winning at Pontoon.

Understand the rules

Before playing any game, it is important to understand the rules. In Pontoon, the rules are similar to blackjack but with a few differences. For example, the dealer's cards are dealt face down, and a player can only hit once after doubling down.

Know the card values

In Pontoon, the card values are the same as in blackjack. Aces are worth 1 or 11 points, face cards are worth 10 points, and all other cards are worth their face value.

Aim for a Pontoon

The best hand in Pontoon is a Pontoon, which is an ace and a 10-point card. If you are dealt a Pontoon, you automatically win the game.

Hit if you have a hand of 14 or less

If you have a hand of 14 or less, you should always hit. This is because the chances of going over 21 are low, and you need to improve your hand to have a chance of winning.

Stand if you have a hand of 15 or more

If you have a hand of 15 or more, you should always stand. This is because the chances of going over 21 are high, and you are more likely to win if the dealer goes over 21.

Double down with a hand of 9, 10, or 11

If you have a hand of 9, 10, or 11, you should consider doubling down. This is because you are more likely to get a 10-point card, which will give you a strong hand.

Split pairs of aces and eights

If you are dealt a pair of aces or eights, you should always split them. This will give you two chances to get a strong hand.

Split pairs of twos, threes, and sevens against a dealer's card of 2 to 7

If you are dealt a pair of twos, threes, or sevens, and the dealer's up card is a 2 to 7, you should split them. This will give you two chances to get a hand of 17 or higher.

Never split pairs of fives or tens

You should never split pairs of fives or tens. A pair of fives is a strong hand, and a pair of tens is a hand of 20, which is close to 21.

Don't take insurance

In Pontoon, you have the option to take insurance if the dealer's up card is an ace. You should never take insurance as it is not a profitable bet in the long run.

Pay attention to the dealer's up card

The dealer's up card is an important factor in Pontoon. If the dealer's up card is a 2 to 6, the dealer has a high chance of going over 21. If the dealer's up card is a 7 to ace, the dealer has a good chance of getting a strong hand.

Use a basic strategy chart

A basic strategy chart is a helpful tool that shows you the best play to make in any situation. You can find a basic strategy chart for Pontoon online and use it to guide your decisions.