Card counting
Card counting is a strategy used by skilled players in blackjack to gain an advantage over the casino. It involves keeping track of the cards that have been dealt to estimate the likelihood of certain cards being dealt next. The basic idea is that when more high cards (like tens and aces) are left in the deck, the player has a better chance of getting a blackjack or a strong hand. Conversely, when more low cards remain, the odds tilt in favor of the dealer.
Card counting doesn’t require memorizing every card, but rather assigning values to different cards and keeping a running count. For example, in the popular “Hi-Lo” system, players add 1 for every low card (2-6) and subtract 1 for every high card (10-Ace) dealt. By adjusting their bets based on the count, players can maximize their winnings when the odds are in their favor.
Though card counting is legal, casinos frown upon it, and players caught counting cards may be asked to leave or banned from playing blackjack. Despite the challenge, it’s a technique that has intrigued and attracted many blackjack enthusiasts, blending math with the thrill of the game.