The Main Rules and Secrets of Card Counting in Blackjack

Want to get better and increase your chances of winning at the game called Blackjack, but it seems difficult and you don't know how to go about it, it's time to consider learning how to count cards. This simple technique can prove to be the key to gaining an edge in the game and increasing your chances of success. In fact, not everything is as complicated as it might seem at first glance. You don't need to have a phenomenal memory or other skills to do this. In addition, you will be able to count cards even when you play online casino such as The Kingdom of King Billy.

The Explanation of Card Counting in Blackjack

Counting cards blackjack is one of the most popular strategies that players actively use. This term refers to a mathematical calculation that can be used to determine how winning the next hand will be. The main task is to count and keep scores of low and high value cards. This helps to significantly reduce the house edge. In addition to this, using this tactic, you will be able to make deliberate and informed decisions about the next steps during the game. The main thing is to be attentive and able to predict the events that will follow you. Another significant advantage is the ability to minimize losses, which is a really important aspect of the game.

The Strategy of Card Counting: How Does It Work?

Many people believe that in order to count cards you need to have a phenomenal memory, remember each card and calculate which of them are left in the deck. In fact, everything is much simpler than it might seem at first glance. There are different techniques for counting cards blackjack. Depending on which method you choose, the main features of such tactics will depend. Basically, you need to remember the meanings of the high cards and the low cards. Each of them will have its own indicator. Typically these are 1 and -1. Depending on the cards, you subtract or add this indicator. Based on the final score, you decide on your turn. Next, we will look at the basic strategies, where you can better understand how to count cards in blackjack.

Simple Blackjack Card Counting System

If you want to begin to count cards, you need to choose the most suitable strategy for this. They can be different. Depending on the specifics of your skills and abilities, we recommend choosing one or another option. Let's look at the most popular techniques that will teach you how to count cards in blackjack.

Hi-Lo

Everyone has definitely heard about this basic calculation method! This is one of the simplest techniques that we recommend starting with. Your main job is to keep track of the high and low cards that remain in play. We must roughly divide the cards into three groups, namely:

• Cards from 2 to 6: their value is 1;
• Cards 10, J, Q, K, Ace: their value is -1;
• Cards 7, 8, 9: their value is zero. You take into account each card that comes out of the deck using the method of adding and subtracting points. If you get a positive number, then you can increase the bet and continue the game. If you get a negative number, then it is best to skip this round. As you can see, there is nothing complicated about this. Now you can better understand what is counting cards in blackjack.

The Omega II System

If you want to learn how to count cards in blackjack online like a real professional, then a multi-level system called The Omega II is the most suitable variant for you. It is more complex than its predecessors. It is often used for games where more than one deck of cards is used. With its help, you can more accurately assess your chances of winning. Cards in this method count from -2 to +2. The calculation principle is the same as the previous options. The most important thing is not to make a mistake when counting, otherwise you risk losing. Now let's take a closer look at the main meaning of the cards:

• Cards 2, 3, 7: their value is +1;
• Cards 4, 5, 6: their value is +2;
• Cards 8 and Ace: their value is 0;
• Card 9: its value is -1;
• Cards 10, J, Q, K: their value is -2. For this calculation, you will need to remember a few more values. However, with practice, it will become easier and easier for you to remember them. The most important thing is to not confuse the values of each number.

Ace-Five Count

This system allows you to easily count cards. From its name, you can understand the main features of this calculation method. You will only need to count two cards. Ace counts as -1, and 5 as +1. If you have a positive calculation result, then you should double your bet. This is one of the simplest systems that can also be used by beginners before moving on to more complex methods.

Knockout

This technique is much the same in its features as the previous one. You also need to divide the cards into several groups, but according to a slightly different principle. We are talking about the following distribution:

• Cards from 2 to 7: their value is +1;
• Cards 8, 9: their value is 0;
• Cards 10, J, Q, K, Ace: their value is -1. To count cards, you need to perform the same steps as with the previous method. The only difference is that it is an unbalanced scoring system, so you will have to use slightly different values ​​than Hi-Lo.

Wong Halves

When you have a good understanding of how to count cards in blackjack basic strategies, it's time to move on to something more complex. Wong Halves can easily be called one of the most complex counting systems because it uses fractions. However, with its help you can get the most accurate results. This is one of the most advanced systems. It was even described in a book about playing professional blackjack. Let's talk in more detail about what rating is assigned to each card:

• Cards 2, 7: their value is +0.5;
• Cards 3, 4, 6: their value is +1;
• Card 5: its value is +1.5;
• Card 8: its value is 0;
• Card 9: its value is -1.5;
• Cards 10, J, Q, K, Ace: their value is -1. Your task, as in previous systems, is to add or subtract indicators as you remove cards from the deck. Counting starts from zero. We divide the final score by the number of remaining decks. The final figure is referred to as the real score, or occasionally the true score. The actual score is a reflection of the deck's current condition. The better the deck, the higher it is.

Counting Cards: Is It Allowed Method?

Even though counting cards blackjack offers you a huge number of advantages, in some situations, it can harm you. This is a very controversial topic. At this point in time, people are divided into two groups. Some people believe that card counting is the same skill as using strategies and there is nothing special about it. Some folks have the opinion that card counting is an illegal and fraudulent activity, while others consider it an acceptable method. In many offline casino, it is difficult to practice card counting as it may be prohibited by the rules of the establishment. If you are caught counting cards, the administration may impose various sanctions, including suspension or even expulsion from the casino. Some players may even get blacklisted, which makes card counting a risky move.

If you play on online platforms, then you can safely try card counting. No one is watching you and you have the right to do what you want. Despite the fact that sometimes it may be prohibited.

The Role of Card Counting in Blackjack

Now that you know what is counting cards in blackjack, it’s time to summarize all of the above and evaluate the role of such a technique in the game. Card counting is the strategy that allows you to have more control over the game and make better decisions. Using this technique, you can get closer to victory and win good money. Therefore, this approach to the game plays an important role. Moreover, it is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance. The most crucial thing is to train regularly and over time you will do it automatically. For training, you can use the demo version of the blackjack game, which can be found in The King Billy Kingdom.

There are different ways to count cards. Depending on the specifics of your game, you can choose the most suitable method. Remember that if you do this offline, you need to be very careful, because such actions can get you kicked out of the game.

FAQ

Are there any chances of winning without card counting?

Definitely! Every player may win without and no need to count cards. However, using this technique significantly increases your chances of winning and makes your victory more accessible.

How can I learn to count cards if I'm a beginner?

In these cases, it's best to start with something simple, like a Hi-Lo or an Ace Five Count. The best way to practice your counting skills is use the demo version of blackjack. Over time, you will get better at it and you will be able to use more complex techniques.

Can I win a lot of money with card counting?

It's hard to say for sure. But it all depends on how experienced the player is and how well they know the card counting technique and how much experience they have in the game. If a player successfully masters this method and uses it with the right approach and wisely, he can significantly increase his potential income in blackjack and improve his professionalism in the game.

Written by Michael Cunningham

2024-03-05