Blackjack is the most widely played casino card game around the globe. Many see it as a game of luck, but mathematical strategy can sometimes help shift the odds to their advantage for smart players. Perhaps the best known blackjack strategy is card counting: the art of tracking which high and low cards remain in the deck. This article will explain the theory behind card counting, its history, strategies, legality, and effectiveness in today’s casinos.
The History of Card Counting
Card counting first appeared in the mid-20th century when mathematicians and gamblers began to analyze the probability of various cards appearing in a game. The most famous early work was done by Edward O. Thorp, who published Beat the Dealer in 1962. His book introduced the concept of card counting and proved that blackjack could be beaten with skill and discipline.
Since then, many professional players and teams, including the MIT Blackjack Team, have used card counting techniques to win millions of dollars from casinos. Casinos responded by reshuffling decks frequently and banning suspected counters.
Understanding Card Counting
Card counting is the process of figuring out the odds of high and low-value cards appearing in subsequent hands. High and low-value cards are present in equal number in a deck of blackjack. However, once the cards start getting dealt, this balance will shift.
High cards (10, J, Q, K, A): Positive for the player because they are more likely to result in a blackjack and more likely to cause the dealer’s bust.
Low cards (2, 3, 4, 5, 6): Positive for the casino since they are more likely to keep the dealer from busting and make it less likely for a player to make a high card hand.
Monitoring these cards helps players adjust their bets and other playing decisions.
Best Card Counting Systems
There are some card counting systems ranging from easy to complex. However, these mainly depend on the person’s skill level as well as the desired accuracy of the system.
1. Hi-Lo System (Most Common)
The most popular among them is the Hi-Lo system. It is quite simple to learn and utilize. The point for each card is simply assigned as follows.
+1: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 (low-value cards)
0: 7, 8, 9 (neutral cards)
-1: 10, J, Q, K, A (high-value cards)
The running count grows with the presence of low cards and falls with the emergence of high cards. An elevated running count indicates that the deck holds a high ratio of big-value cards and more advantageous to the players.
2. KO (Knock-Out) System
Comparable to Hi-Lo, except it doesn’t convert to the “true count”. It is simpler to use but not as accurate.
3. Omega II System
A variation with a higher level of complexity that uses various point values:
+1: 2, 3, 7
+2: 4, 5, 6
0: 8, Ace
-1: 9
-2: 10, J, Q, K
This method is more accurate but demands greater concentration.
4. Wong Halves System
A very intricate system that assigns fractional values, increasing accuracy but making it quite impractical for casual players.
How to Apply Card Counting in Play
Maintain a Running Count
- Keep track of every card played and update your count accordingly.
- Convert to True Count (in case of Multi-Decks)
- Divide the running count by the number of decks remaining.
Bet Adjustments
- Bet up when the count is high (there are more high cards left in the deck).
- Bet down when the count is low (there are more low cards left in the deck).
Adjust Playing Strategy
- Play off of basic strategy when the count is favorable. For instance, stand on 16 against a 10 if the count is high.
Countermeasures of Casinos
Casinos discourage card counting in all ways possible through the following countermeasures:
Using multiple decks
It is harder to track cards accurately when using 6 or 8 decks.
Frequent Shuffling
The fewer hands played with the same shoe, the less advantage counting has.
No Mid-Shoe Entry
It prevents players from joining mid-game, thereby preventing them from counting without playing all hands.
Surveillance and Banning
Advanced surveillance and facial recognition can identify known counters. Suspected counters may be asked to leave or banned from casinos.
Is Card Counting Illegal?
Most jurisdictions do not regard card counting as illegal because it does not purport to cheat or tamper with the game. However, casinos are private businesses and also have the right to refuse service. If such a player is caught counting, he will most likely be banned or told to play another game.
Can You Still Win with Card Counting Today?
With modern casino countermeasures, card counting is more challenging but still possible. Skilled players who use stealth techniques (not varying bets drastically, playing in teams, and avoiding obvious behaviors) can still gain an advantage. Online casinos, however, make card counting ineffective due to continuous shuffling in virtual games.
Final Thoughts
Card counting is still a very interesting and viable strategy for skilled blackjack players. It does require practice, discipline, and a good grasp of basic blackjack strategy, but it can provide a real edge over the casino when done right. However, players should be aware of the risks, countermeasures, and ethical considerations when attempting to use card counting techniques in live casinos.
For those serious about mastering blackjack, learning to apply card counting will be an invigorating challenge that can change the game from pure luck into a war of wits.
