Card Counting in Online Live Blackjack
Blackjack has always been, and will continue to be, one of the most popular card games at both online and physical casinos. While luck plays a significant role in getting the best cards and maximising your winnings, a solid strategy can significantly boost your chances of success.
There are numerous strategies you can employ when playing card games online. One of the most well-known among these is card counting.
While card counting is generally trickier to implement in online blackjack compared to physical casinos, it's certainly still possible and can give you a slight edge over the house.
How Does Card Counting Work for South African Players?
Regardless of which games you enjoy, blackjack or poker, this strategy can be useful.
This strategy involves keeping track of the cards that have already been dealt and memorising them. As you play and get into the counting rhythm, you can better gauge whether the next hand is likely to favour you.
Step 1: Assign Values to Dealt Cards
Firstly, you need to observe the cards as they are dealt and assign these values:
- Low cards (2 through to 6) = +1
- Neutral cards (7 through to 9) = 0
- High cards (Ace through to 10) = -1. Tallying cards like this is also known as the "running count."
Step 2: Calculate the True Count for Online Play
Next, you'll need to calculate the "true count" to account for the multiple decks used in most real-money blackjack games online. To do this, divide your running count by the estimated number of decks remaining in the shoe. For example, if you have a +9 running count and estimate there are 3 decks left, your true count is +3. This refinement helps you make better betting decisions.
Step 3: Understanding Your Advantage
Next, apply the “true count” to determine if you hold an edge over the house. Here is how true count determines the advantage or disadvantage: -3 = 2.05% house edge -2 = 1.53% house edge -1 = 0.80% house edge 0 = 0.42% house edge +3 = 1.77% player’s advantage +2 = 1.17% player’s advantage +1 = 0.58% player’s advantage Remember that a higher true count lets you risk more with high confidence.
The Possibility of Online Live Blackjack Card Counting
While online live blackjack uses real decks of cards, they are shuffled more frequently than in a traditional casino. This makes it harder for players to count cards effectively. Additionally, many live online casinos employ software to detect card counters and prevent them from playing. However, it is still possible to use card counting strategies in online live blackjack if you are disciplined and adapt your strategies to the online format.
Strategies for Card Counting in Online Live Blackjack
Here are some tips to help you implement card-counting strategies in online live blackjack:
Keep it simple
Stick to a basic card counting system like the Hi-Lo count. This system is easy to learn and implement and will give you a good idea of when the deck is in your favor.
Practice
Practice counting cards at home before playing online live blackjack. There are many online simulators available that can help you improve your skills.
Adjust your betting
When the deck is in your favor, increase your bet. When the deck is against you, decrease your bet. This will help you maximize your winnings and minimize your losses.
Pay attention to the game
Stay focused on the game and avoid distractions. Watch for changes in the dealer's behavior and patterns in the cards dealt with.
Risks and Rewards of Card Counting in Online Live Blackjack
Card counting can give players an edge over the house, but it also carries risks. Here are some potential risks and rewards to consider:
Rewards
- Increased chances of winning
- More accurate betting decisions
- Ability to take advantage of favorable situations
Risks
- Detection by live online casinos and possible ban
- Legal consequences in some jurisdictions
- Requires a significant amount of time and effort to master
Conclusion
Overall, card counting will always be easier to implement if you are playing in a land-based casino. Nevertheless, this strategy will work well even online if you practice it enough and find a good casino to do it.
We recommend you start on blackjack tables with fewer decks in play, which will make your job simple.
FAQ
What exactly is card counting in Blackjack?
Card counting is a strategy used by players in card games, particularly Blackjack, to keep track of the cards that have been dealt. It involves assigning a numeric value to each card, allowing players to estimate whether the remaining cards in the deck favor them or the dealer. This can help players make more informed betting decisions.
Is it possible to count cards in live dealer blackjack games?
Yes, card counting is possible in live dealer blackjack. However, online casinos often employ measures to detect card counters, such as using multiple decks or shuffling more frequently. If a player is suspected of card counting, the casino may take action, including banning the player from the platform. Always gamble responsibly.
Can card counting strategies actually work in live blackjack games?
Card counting can potentially give players an advantage in live blackjack, but it's not a guaranteed winning strategy. It requires significant practice, discipline, and a deep understanding of the game. The effectiveness of card counting can also be influenced by the casino's rules and procedures. Remember that gambling should be seen as entertainment, not a source of income.
How easy is it to count cards in online live blackjack in South Africa?
Card counting in online live casinos can be more challenging than in brick-and-mortar casinos due to factors like automatic shuffling and the use of multiple decks. However, with enough practice and dedication, it is still possible to implement card counting strategies and potentially gain an edge. Always be aware of the risks involved and gamble responsibly within your means.
