Card Counting in Blackjack: Does It Still Work?

Card counting has long been a strategy used by skilled blackjack players to gain an edge over the casino. Popularized by movies and books, it has been both praised as a genius tactic and condemned as a method casinos aggressively counteract. But in today’s gambling landscape, does card counting still work?

What Is Card Counting?

Card counting is a technique used to track the ratio of high to low cards left in the deck, helping players make more informed betting decisions. The most common system is the Hi-Lo strategy, where:

• High cards (10s, face cards, and Aces) are assigned a value of -1.
• Low cards (2-6) are assigned a value of +1.
• Neutral cards (7-9) are counted as 0.

By keeping a running count and adjusting bets accordingly, skilled players can determine when the deck is in their favor.

Does Card Counting Still Work Today?

While card counting remains theoretically effective, modern casinos have taken numerous steps to counteract it, including:

• Multiple Decks: Many casinos use six to eight decks, making it harder to keep an accurate count.
• Frequent Shuffling: Automatic shuffling machines and early reshuffling reduce the effectiveness of counting.
• Player Tracking: Casinos monitor betting patterns and may ban suspected card counters.
• No Mid-Shoe Entry: Preventing new players from joining a game mid-shoe helps reduce the impact of counting.

Despite these challenges, card counting can still work in the right conditions, such as:

• Playing at a single-deck table (rare but available in some locations).
• Finding games where the dealer stands on soft 17 (better for players).
• Using a team-based approach (similar to the MIT Blackjack Team).

How to Improve Your Card Counting Skills

1. Practice Consistently: Use a deck of cards at home to build speed and accuracy.
2. Keep a Low Profile: Avoid erratic bet sizing that alerts casino staff.
3. Play at Less Strict Casinos: Some casinos are more tolerant of advantage play than others.
4. Combine Strategies: Pair counting with basic blackjack strategy for better results.

Final Thoughts: Is Card Counting Still Worth It?

While card counting in blackjack is not as effective as it once was, it remains a valuable tool for skilled players who can navigate casino countermeasures. For most casual players, focusing on basic strategy and bankroll management may offer a more practical way to enjoy blackjack without casino scrutiny.

What do you think? Have you tried card counting, or do you prefer other blackjack strategies? Let us know in the comments!