When people think of strategy in gambling, the first things that usually come to mind are hitting, standing, splitting, or doubling down. But seasoned players know that where you sit around the felt can play a surprisingly important role in shaping the flow of the game. At places like Kansas Crossing Casino in Pittsburg, KS, where locals and visitors alike gather to try their hand at blackjack, understanding the nuances of table position could give you an edge, or at the very least, a deeper appreciation for the game’s dynamics.
Unlike massive resorts in Las Vegas or Atlantic City, smaller venues often provide a more intimate environment, with friendly dealers, approachable table minimums, and a community-driven feel. The energy is often both inviting and competitive, a perfect place to practice strategies in a real-world setting.
Locals know that the enjoyment isn’t just about the cards, it’s about the people sitting around you, the pace of play, and the small decisions that can affect the entire table. And one of those often-overlooked decisions is where you choose to sit.
Many new players assume that seating is random and inconsequential. After all, everyone gets cards, right? But in reality, your chair can change the way you experience the game. The order of play is fixed - hands are dealt from one side of the table to the other, with the dealer acting last. This creates situations where some seats give you more information or more pressure than others.
The most commonly discussed positions at the table are “first base” and “third base.”
First base is the seat immediately to the dealer’s left. This player acts first once the cards are dealt. Sitting here means you need to make your decision quickly, with no example to follow, but it also means you get the first look at how the hand begins to unfold.
Third base is the seat immediately to the dealer’s right, acting last before the dealer plays their hand. Many players believe this position carries the most responsibility since your decision could directly influence whether the dealer busts or makes a strong hand.
You’ll often hear players debate whether sitting at first base allows them to set the tone, or whether third base gives them the most control. While neither position guarantees success, both undeniably impact how the hand feels and plays out.
Between first base and third base are the middle seats, often considered the least stressful. Players here don’t feel the pressure of acting first or last but still benefit from seeing how others around them play. For those who want to enjoy the game in a social, less pressured way. These seats tend to strike a nice balance.
Seating doesn’t just influence the flow of cards; it shapes the psychology of the game. At a local spot where you might recognize familiar faces at the tables, the social aspect is just as important as the math.
At first base, you might feel like the pace-setter, and some players thrive in this role.
At third base, there’s often pressure from fellow players who believe your choices directly affect the outcome of the dealer’s hand. While this isn’t technically true (since the cards are pre-determined once the shuffle is complete), perception matters, and tension can build if others think your decision cost them a win.
In the middle, you often fly under the radar, free to focus on your own strategy without as much outside pressure.
Another reason position matters is the pace of play. If you’re new and want more time to think, sitting toward third base allows you to watch other players act before making your decision. This can help you feel more confident, especially in a busy casino where tables move quickly.
Conversely, if you’re an experienced player who wants the game to move faster, first base ensures you’re not waiting long to act. That can make for a more exciting, fast-paced experience.
Gambling has grown steadily over the years, with state-regulated casinos offering a mix of slots, table games, and live entertainment. Kansas Crossing Casino has become a hub not only for Pittsburg locals but also for visitors from nearby states like Missouri and Oklahoma.
In this community-oriented environment, seating choices often reflect personality. Some regulars always grab first base because they like to lead, while others prefer the middle to socialize without pressure.
It’s worth addressing a few myths that float around casinos:
“Third base controls the table.” While the last player does act before the dealer, their choices don’t actually alter which cards come next - the deck is already set. Still, perception matters, and frustration can arise if others believe third base “took the dealer’s bust card.”
“First base has no advantage.” Acting first may feel limiting, but it also means less waiting and more focus on your own hand rather than what others are doing.
“Middle seats are boring.” Many players enjoy the comfort of middle positions because they avoid the spotlight, which is ideal in social casino settings.
So how should you choose your spot the next time you visit a gaming venue?
Watch the table vibe. In venues where many players return regularly, some seats may be informally “claimed” by regulars, so reading the room can help you fit in.
At the end of the day, seating is about more than just strategy. It’s about comfort, confidence, and community. It’s about the atmosphere is as much about friendly conversation and shared excitement as it is about winning. Your position doesn’t dictate how much fun you’ll have.
Whether you’re setting the pace at first base, carrying the pressure at third, or enjoying the camaraderie in the middle, the seat you choose shapes your experience. And in a state where gambling is still a growing part of the entertainment culture, those small choices can make your night at the tables more enjoyable.
So the next time you pull up a chair, take a moment to think about more than just your cards. Where you sit may matter more than you realize, not just for your strategy, but for the entire experience.
