You may well have heard of card counting as a strategy used in Blackjack. So, what’s it all about? Let us enlighten you! You certainly won’t be disappointed and with any luck it may well help you win some dosh!

Card counting is essentially used as a way of determining whether the next hand dealt is likely to give an advantage to the player or the dealer. In simple terms, by keeping a running count of certain cards that have already been dealt, players can make more informed decisions about their bets and playing strategy. Cool huh?

This aim of this guide is to give more details about card counting, the reasons why players use it and how you might use the system to your benefit. Most importantly, we’ll let you know whether it really can really lead to consistent winning opportunities! We’ll also discuss which variations of the game it is most attuned to and clarify the legal aspects in New Zealand which govern its practice.

What is Card Counting and Why Use It?

So, let’s dive right in! Card counting is a mathematical technique used to track the ratio of high to low cards remaining in the deck. It’s all about conditional probability! As you might expect, high cards (10s, face cards, and Aces) benefit the player more than low cards (2 through 6). So basically, if a player can estimate that there is significant likelihood of there being a higher proportion of high cards left in the deck, they may well have a better chance of hitting blackjacks, winning more money, and bringing down the house. Conversely, a higher proportion of low cards generally benefits the dealer, and we certainly don’t want that!

Why Players Use Card Counting

• Increased Winning Chances: By knowing the proportion of high to low cards, players can increase their bets when the count is favourable and therefore maximize potential profits.
• Informed Decisions: Card counting can help in the decision-making process; in other words, whether to hit, stand, double down, or split. By doing so, the player’s edge is vastly improved, which can only be a good thing!

How to Use Card Counting

Amongst the best card counting methods in Blackjack, the Hi-Lo system is relatively straightforward to learn and put into practice. If you get it right, in can work wonders! Other counting techniques improve winning odds even more, but they are relatively complex to master and therefore may not be suitable for inexperienced players. So, in this case, the simpler, the better. Why complicate matters when you don’t have to?

Understanding the Hi-Lo Counting System

When trying your luck at Blackjack, you’ll be glad to know that the Hi-Lo counting system is one of the most widely-used and straightforward card counting methods available to players. By assigning a value to each card, players can keep a running count which can help them estimate the ratio of high to low cards remaining in the deck. Want to know more? Look no further; here’s how it works:

• Cards 2 through 6 are assigned a value of +1.
• Cards 7 through 9 are considered neutral and have a value of 0.
• 10 cards, face cards (Jack, Queen, King), and Aces are assigned a value of -1.

As the cards are dealt, players need to start keeping track as soon as possible; discipline and a high level of concentration are paramount here, so keeping their wits about them is a must. They can then keep a running count of the total by adding or subtracting the values of the cards that appear. A positive value indicates there is a higher proportion of high cards (10s and Aces) remaining in the deck, which can put the player in an advantageous position. At this point, they might think about increasing their bet. Conversely, a negative count suggests that more low cards are left, which is less favourable and means the player doesn’t have the edge. So here, laying low would be a wise decision.

What is the Best Blackjack Variant for Hi-Lo Counting?

More often than not, the Hi-Lo counting system tends to be most effective when playing the more traditional blackjack games, particularly those with favourable rules such as:

• Single or double-deck games.
• Games where the dealer stands on all 17s (both soft and hard).
• Games that offer the option to double down on any two cards and after splitting pairs.

The single-deck variant is where the Hi-Lo counting system really comes into its own. This is due to the simple fact that fewer decks make it easier to keep an accurate count and predict what cards remain. Single-deck games often have higher penetration (percentage of the deck dealt before reshuffling), which provides more significant opportunities for the player to capitalize on the count.

Why Single-Deck Blackjack?

When it comes to the Hi-Lo counting system, single-deck blackjack offers the highest potential for profit. This can be attributed to the following reasons:

1. Accuracy: With fewer cards in play, the count is more precise, and the player can make better-informed decisions when placing bets.
2. Penetration: Typically, casinos deal deeper into single decks before reshuffling. This means that card counters can take advantage of favourable counts more frequently.
3. Variance: The impact of each card is more significant in a single deck, meaning that the count shift is more noticeable. This offers more clarification when making bets and deciding on the next move.

Other Card Counting Techniques

While the Hi-Lo system is popular, other card counting techniques are also widely used in blackjack. Here are just a few which may be of interest:

1. Omega II System: A more complex system that assigns different values to different cards. While this can potentially offer players more accuracy, it does require a lot more skill and focus. Certainly something to bear in mind when considering your options as these two abilities play a crucial role.
2. Zen Count: Another advanced system that uses a graded count for each card for increased precision. Here, you need a decent amount of practice to confidently be able to keep a running count.
3. Wong Halves: A highly sophisticated system which requires significant skill. Complicated fractional values are assigned to cards for an extremely detailed count. Due to its complexity, it’s really only suitable for experienced counters.

Each of these systems has its own advantages and learning curves with a varying degree of difficulty. While the more complex methods offer higher potential accuracy, the downside is that they are harder to master and implement in real-time play.

Learning to card count takes time and patience and the Hi-Lo counting system is an excellent choice for beginners as it is a relatively simple, accessible, and effective method for gaining an edge in blackjack (particularly in single-deck variants where its accuracy and the game’s dynamics come together to offer real winning chances). Other counting systems can also be beneficial and offer their own unique strengths and complexities, but as discussed above, they require a significant amount of experience.

Can You Really Win with Card Counting?

While not foolproof, card counting can provide players with a statistical edge over the dealer and casino. However, we certainly can’t guarantee that you’ll win every hand or session! Above all, it requires practice, concentration, and a disciplined betting strategy. And don’t forget that game rule variations and casino countermeasures can also have an impact on how effective it is.

Play for Real

Card counting techniques are particularly useful (and highly recommended) at live gaming tables. If you wish, you can also use them on gaming consoles in electronic format. However, this type of game does not guarantee effective handling during sessions. Whether you prefer the thrilling in-person experience of gaming in a real casino, or are more drawn towards online gaming, both options are valid.

If you want to experience the best blackjack gaming tables in New Zealand, then SkyCity Auckland is most certainly your best bet. As for Internet offers, the Luxury Casino site offers live gaming tables where you will find popular Blackjack variations! A fantastic way to hone your card counting skills. Practice makes perfect!

PLAY AT LUXURY

Legal Aspects of Card Counting in New Zealand

Contrary to widespread belief, card counting is not illegal in New Zealand; it is a legitimate strategy if performed without the aid of devices or outside help. However, bear in mind that casinos do have the right to refuse service to card counters or even alter their game to counter the strategy. So always do your research beforehand and check the specific policies of the casino you’re planning to visit. That way, you won’t be in for any nasty surprises.

By following our guide, those of you in New Zealand can better understand the principles of card counting and potentially increase your chances of winning at blackjack. Remember, successful card counting requires practice, discipline, and a thorough understanding of the game’s rules and variations. There are certainly no shortcuts, so if you’re in it to win it, do your homework!