As the roulette wheel spins and the dice tumble, another game calls to those seeking a more calculated thrill — blackjack. This is one of the casino table games that require skill and luck and has enticed players for centuries, and with good reason. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of getting a blackjack or winning a big hand.
But even the best blackjack players know that the odds are stacked against them. The house always has an edge, which is why most players eventually lose money. But there is one way to tip the balance in your favor — card counting.
This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about card counting in blackjack, from the basics of the game to the most popular techniques. You’ll learn how to track the cards that have been dealt, and how to use this information to make better betting decisions.
Once you’ve honed your card counting skills, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a winning blackjack player. And with Borgata Online, you can put your skills to the test in its vast selection of live dealer casino games. With real dealers and real cards, Borgata Online offers the same excitement and challenge as a land-based casino, all from the comfort of your own home.
Basic Blackjack Rules
In live dealer blackjack, games begin with the dealer shuffling a deck of cards. Two cards are then dealt to the player, and the dealer keeps two cards — one facing up and another facing down. The player then has the option to hit, stand, double down or split.
- Hit: Take another card from the dealer.
- Stand: Stay with your current hand.
- Double down: Bet the same amount as your original bet and take one more card.
- Split: Split your hand into two hands if you have a pair of cards with the same value.
The objective of the game is to get as close to 21 as possible without exceeding it.
If the player goes over 21, they bust and lose the hand. If the player gets to 21, they automatically win the hand. If the player and the dealer both have 21, it’s a push, and the player gets their bet back.
How Does Counting Cards Work?
Counting cards in blackjack is a skill that allows players to track the cards that have been played and estimate the probability of the next card that will be drawn. This gives players an edge over the house — helping them make more informed decisions about when to hit, stand, double down or split.
Here’s how it works:
- Each card is assigned a value based on its impact on the player’s chances of winning. High-value cards (2–6) are assigned a value of +1. Low-value cards (10–A) are assigned a value of -1. Cards with a value of 7, 8, or 9 are assigned a value of 0.
- As the cards are dealt, players keep track of the values of the cards that have been played. This running count lets players know how many high-value and low-value cards are left in the deck.
- A high running count indicates more high-value cards remaining in the deck. This is good for players, as high-value cards are more likely to give them blackjacks or winning hands. A low running count means that there are probably more low-value cards remaining in the deck. This is bad for players, as low-value cards are more likely to bust their hands.
- Players can use the running count to adjust their betting strategy. When the running count is high, players can bet more money — they’ll have a better chance of winning. When the running count is low, players should bet less money — they’ll have a lower chance of winning.
Step-by-Step Guide to Counting Cards in Blackjack
Counting cards in blackjack is a relatively simple process, but it does require some practice. Here are the basic steps involved in counting cards.
Choose a Counting System
There are many different counting systems available. The Hi-Lo System is the most popular, ideal for players just starting out.
Start Counting
As the cards are dealt, add the values of the cards to your running count. The running count will give you an idea of how many high-value and low-value cards remain in the deck.
Adjust Your Bet Size
When the running count is high, you can bet more money, as you have a better chance of winning. When the running count is low, you should bet less money, as you have a lower chance of winning.
Adjust Your Strategy
You can also adjust your playing strategy based on the running count. For example, you may be more likely to hit or double down when the running count is high.
Be Discreet
It’s important to be discreet when counting cards. Casinos don’t like card counters and they may ban you from playing if they catch you.
How Do the Blackjack Odds Change When Counting Cards?
Counting cards in blackjack can help you increase your odds of winning by up to 2%, depending on your strategy and skill level.
It’s important to note that counting cards is not a foolproof way to win at blackjack. The house still has a slight edge, even if you’re counting cards correctly. However, counting cards could give you an advantage and help you win more money in the long run.
Other Ways To Increase Your Blackjack Odds
One way to increase your odds of winning at blackjack is by playing live dealer blackjack online. This way, you can see the dealer’s hand and the cards being dealt, and you’ll avoid the pitfalls of online casino games like rigged outcomes.
And while any fancy card shuffling may look like cheating, it’s usually just a way to increase the vibe around the table.
Practice makes perfect, so practice playing blackjack solo or with friends before playing at an online casino for real money.
Play Casino Online With Borgata Online
With a little practice and patience, you can learn to count cards and increase your odds of winning at blackjack. So what are you waiting for? Start practicing today with Borgata Online.
Borgata Online is a reputable online casino that offers a variety of blackjack games — including live dealer blackjack. You can play at a casino online for real money or for free, so you can practice without risking any of your own money.
Register today to start playing.