Blackjack is one of the most popular live dealer games worldwide. It is a game of luck combined with skills that require players to make strategic decisions based on the cards they and the dealer have been dealt.
However, some skilled players use a technique called card counting to gain an advantage over the live casino. In this article, we will discuss how to count cards in blackjack and share some tips for mastering this technique.
Key Takeaways
- Card counting is a technique used by some skilled blackjack players to gain an advantage over the live dealer casino.
- By keeping track of the cards that have been played, a player can predict the probability of certain cards coming up and adjust their bets accordingly.
- Counting cards is legal but casinos may ask players to leave if they suspect they are counting cards.
- Several different card counting systems exist, each with its own pros and cons.
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Learn How to Count Cards in Blackjack
Counting cards in a game of blackjack involves keeping track of the cards that have been played and assigning them a point value. The most common point values are as follows:
- 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6: +1
- 7, 8, and 9: 0
- 10, J, Q, K, and A: -1
To start counting cards, you need to keep a running count of the point values of the cards that have been played. As the count goes up, the likelihood of high-value cards coming up in the next hand increases. Conversely, as the count goes down, the likelihood of low-value cards coming up increases.
When the count is high, players should increase their bets because the odds of getting a blackjack or a 20 increase. Conversely, when the count is low, players should decrease their bets because the odds of getting a low-value card increase.
It’s important to note that card counting is not a foolproof strategy. It does not guarantee a win, but it does give players an edge over the live casino.
Different Card Counting Systems
Players can use several different card-counting systems, each carrying its own advantages and disadvantages. We have discussed some of them below:
Hi-Lo Count
This is the most common card counting system. It’s easy to learn and use, and it gives players a good idea of when to increase or decrease their bets.
Knockout Count
This system is similar to the Hi-Lo Count, but it uses a different point system. It’s more complex than the Hi-Lo Count, but it’s also more accurate.
Omega II Count
This system is more complex than the Hi-Lo Count and the Knockout Count. It assigns different point values to cards depending on their rank, and it gives players a more accurate idea of the count.
Wong Halves Count
This system is one of the most complex card-counting systems. It assigns half points to some cards, and it requires players to keep track of two separate counts. It’s difficult to master, but it’s also very accurate.
It’s important to choose a card counting system that you are comfortable with and that suits your playing style.
Tips for Mastering Card Counting
Here are some tips for mastering card counting:
Practice, practice, practice
Card counting takes time and practice to master. Start by practicing with a single deck of cards and work your way up to multiple decks.
Start with a simple system and work your way up
Start with a simple card counting system like the Hi-Lo Count and work your way up to more complex systems as you become more skilled.
Keep your bets low until you have a high count
It’s important to keep your bets low until you have a high count. This will help you stay low-key and avoid drawing suspicion.
Don’t get too confident
Card counting is legal, but casinos have the right to ask players to leave if they suspect they are counting cards. Overconfidence is a vice. Always stay a step ahead of the casino and be aware of every rule it has in place.
Act all natural and avoid drawing attention to yourself
To not get caught, it’s important to act natural. Don’t make big changes to your betting strategy and try to blend in with the crowd.
Take control of your emotions and don’t lose focus
Card counting requires focus and concentration. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you, and stay focused on the game.
Common Card Counting Myths Busted
There are several common myths about card counting that are not true. Here are a few of them:
Myth: Card counting is illegal
Truth: Card counting is not illegal, but live casinos have the right to ask players to leave if they suspect they are counting cards.
Myth: A photographic memory is a prerequisite to counting cards
Truth: A photographic memory is not a prerequisite or a must-have to count cards. You just need to be able to keep a running count and make strategic decisions based on the count.
Myth: Card counting guarantees a win every time
Truth: Card counting does not guarantee a win every time. It just gives players an edge over the live casino.
Myth: Only math geniuses can count cards
Truth: Anyone can learn to count cards with practice and dedication. You need not be a genius or a pro mathematician to do it.
To conclude, card counting is a skill that can be learned with practice and dedication. While it’s not a guaranteed way to win at blackjack, it can give players an advantage over the casino if used correctly.
Remember to always stay within the live casino’s rules and to blend in with the crowd so you aren’t seen as a suspicious somebody. With the right strategy and a bit of luck, card counting can be a powerful tool for mastering the game of blackjack.
FAQs
Is card counting illegal?
No, card counting is not illegal, but casinos have the right to ask players to leave if they suspect they are counting cards.
Does card counting guarantee a win every time?
No, card counting does not guarantee a win every time. It just gives players an edge over the casino.
Can beginners learn to count cards?
Yes, anyone can learn to count cards with practice and dedication. It’s important to start with a simple system and work your way up to more complex systems as you become more skilled.
Can you count cards when playing online blackjack?
Yes, but not very effectively. Cards are frequently shuffled which results in less time for players to make an accurate reading of the remaining cards.
How much time does it take to master card counting?
This will vary from person to person. Worth knowing is that it takes time and practice to master card counting. It’s important to start with a simple system and work your way up to more complex systems as you become more skilled.
How much edge do you get from card counting?
Card counting can give players an edge of 0.5% to 1.5% over the casino if used correctly.
How many decks are used in blackjack?
Most casinos use six to eight decks in blackjack, but some may use fewer or more.
Can you count cards with multiple decks?
Yes, you can count cards with multiple decks, but it’s more difficult than counting cards with a single deck.
Can the live casino detect if you are counting cards?
The live casino may be able to detect if you are counting cards if you make big changes to your betting strategy or act suspiciously. Act all natural and avoid drawing attention to yourself to save yourself from getting caught.
