Card counting is one of the most well-known strategies in blackjack, often surrounded by intrigue, myths, and a hint of controversy. It has been popularized in books, movies, and the tales of legendary players who defied the odds. This article explores the origins and development of this strategy in blackjack, delves into the stories of famous card counters, and examines the legality and effectiveness of card counting in today’s casinos.
Origins and Development of Card Counting in Blackjack
Card counting as a strategy has its roots in the mathematical understanding of blackjack. Unlike other casino games, blackjack offers players the chance to use strategy to influence the outcome. This potential led to the development of card counting, a technique designed to determine when a player has a statistical edge over the house.
- The Birth of Card Counting: The concept of card counting began to take shape in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Dr. Edward O. Thorp, a mathematics professor at MIT, is often credited with popularizing this method. In his groundbreaking book, Beat the Dealer (1962), Thorp introduced the “Ten Count System,” which mathematically proved that players could gain an edge over the casino by keeping track of the cards that had been dealt. This publication marked the beginning of card counting as a widely recognized blackjack strategy.
- Development of Simplified Card Counting Systems: While Thorp’s original system was effective, it was complex and challenging to implement in a casino setting. Over time, simpler card counting systems were developed to make the strategy more accessible. The “Hi-Lo” system, for example, assigns point values to high and low cards and is easier for players to use while maintaining a solid level of accuracy. This system and others like it allowed more casual players to attempt do it.
- The Casino Response: As card counting gained popularity, casinos began to notice a decline in their blackjack profits. In response, they implemented countermeasures to discourage card counters, such as using multiple decks, shuffling more frequently, and banning known counters from their premises. Despite these efforts, it remained a potent strategy for those willing to put in the time and effort to master it.
Famous Card Counters and Their Stories
Throughout the history of card counting, several individuals and teams have become legends for their ability to beat the casinos at their own game. Here are a few of the most famous card counters:
- Ken Uston: One of the most colorful figures in the history of card counting, Ken Uston was a master of disguise and deception. In the 1970s and 1980s, Uston joined a team of card counters that used teamwork and hidden signals to maximize their profits. His book, The Big Player, detailed his exploits and became a bestseller. Uston’s actions led to several legal battles, one of which resulted in a landmark ruling that casinos could not legally ban card counters without cause in New Jersey.
- The MIT Blackjack Team: Perhaps the most famous card counting team of all time, the MIT Blackjack Team consisted of a group of students and graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) who used sophisticated card counting techniques to win millions of dollars from casinos worldwide in the 1980s and 1990s. The team’s story was popularized by the book Bringing Down the House by Ben Mezrich and the subsequent movie adaptation, 21. Their success demonstrated how mathematical precision and teamwork could effectively challenge the house edge.
- Tommy Hyland: Known as the longest-running and most successful card counting team manager, Tommy Hyland started his career in the 1970s and has led his team for over four decades. Unlike other card counters who operated solo or in small groups, Hyland built a large network of players who worked together to beat casinos across the globe. His team-oriented approach and commitment to training and discipline have made his name synonymous with card counting success.
Legality and Effectiveness of Card Counting Today
While card counting is not illegal, it is still frowned upon by casinos, which have taken significant steps to reduce its effectiveness and deter players from attempting it.
- Is Card Counting Illegal? Contrary to popular belief, card counting is not illegal. It is simply a strategy that involves keeping track of the cards that have been played to gain an advantage. As long as players use their memory and do not employ any external devices or partners to assist them, it is legal. However, casinos are private establishments and have the right to refuse service to anyone they suspect of counting cards.
- Casino Countermeasures: Modern casinos use a variety of techniques to combat card counters. These include using multiple decks (up to eight), implementing automatic shufflers, and training dealers and pit bosses to recognize suspicious betting patterns. Some casinos also use facial recognition software to identify known card counters. These measures make it much harder to maintain an edge over the house.
- The Effectiveness of Card Counting Today: Despite the challenges posed by casinos, it can still be effective for highly skilled players. However, it requires dedication, practice, and a significant bankroll to withstand the inevitable losses that come with high-variance play. Casual players may find it difficult to maintain the discipline needed to count cards successfully, making it a less viable option than it was in the past.
Conclusion
The history of card counting in blackjack is filled with fascinating stories of strategy, skill, and determination. From its origins with Edward Thorp to the exploits of legendary figures like Ken Uston and the MIT Blackjack Team, card counting has left an indelible mark on the gambling world. While this remains a legal strategy, its effectiveness has been curtailed by the evolving countermeasures of modern casinos. For those who still wish to pursue this path, understanding its history and mastering its techniques can provide a challenging and potentially rewarding experience.