Take Control of Your Casino Experience: The Art of Bankroll Management

Gambling has become a popular hobby that attracts millions of people on a regular basis. What motivates people to take the risk and wager money for a potentially bigger return? In this article, we'll dive into the gambling psychology that influences bettors' decisions behind the scenes.  Why Has Gambling Become So Popular?  Gambling has grown in popularity as a hobby for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, there's no denying the thrill and adrenaline connected with gambling. The unpredictable nature of games of chance, such as slot machines or roulette, generates excitement and boosts adrenaline. The prospect of earning a large sum of money with a modest investment entices people to gamble, driving the urge to try their luck. Gambling is a thrilling hobby for people looking to break from their daily routine and add a little spice to their lives.  Furthermore, the ease of access to gambling has contributed significantly to its appeal. People may now gamble from the comfort of their own homes or on the road, thanks to the introduction of online casinos and mobile gambling apps. The ease of access to a diverse selection of gambling alternatives has drawn a broader audience than before.  Finally, it's a fun social activity to enjoy with your friends. The rise of social gambling platforms has turned gambling into a social activity, allowing friends and acquaintances to compete against each other and share their experiences. This social aspect has contributed to the growing popularity of gambling as a hobby, as it provides a means of entertainment and connection with others.  Gambling Psychology and Its Background There are several psychological factors and processes that influence individuals' behavior and decision-making in gambling activities. It seeks to understand the cognitive, emotional, and social aspects that impact people's engagement in gambling and their reactions to wins and losses. It aims to promote responsible gambling practices and address the negative consequences associated with excessive or problem gambling.  A big part of casino psychology is cognitive bias. People may exhibit biases such as the illusion of control (believing they have more control over the outcome than they do), the gambler's fallacy (believing that past outcomes influence future ones), or confirmation bias (seeking information that confirms preexisting gambling beliefs). In gambling situations, these biases can lead to illogical thinking and decision-making.  It's important to note that gambling psychology differentiates recreational gamblers from problem ones. Around 90% of gamblers are recreational ones that don't exhibit addictive behavior. However, a certain percentage of bettors fall into the category of problem or pathological gamblers. We'll discuss this topic more in the gambling addiction section.  Research Studies on Gambling Psychology Developments in neuroimaging technology have allowed for more detailed research into the psychology of gambling addiction. The most significant research in gambling psychology was done in the first two decades of the 21st century by Dr. Mark Potenza. Dr. Potenza is a renowned psychiatrist and researcher known for his expertise in the field of addiction, including gambling disorder. He has contributed significantly to the understanding of the neurobiology and psychological aspects of addiction. In 2003, Dr. Mark Potenza conducted a study utilizing neurological research to demonstrate the distinctive brain reactions of problem and pathological gamblers compared to individuals without gambling issues when exposed to gambling-related stimuli. The research team presented positive and negative images to a large sample of participants, with positive images representing events like weddings and negative images depicting scenarios involving death or divorce. Across all groups, the neurological responses to these images were consistent. However, when participants were shown images associated with gambling, notable differences emerged. While recreational gamblers exhibited no significant change in brain activity, pathological gamblers experienced a spike in brain activity that remained elevated for extended periods. Moreover, the response to gambling is influenced by gender, as indicated by a study conducted by Dr. Mark Potenza's team in 2013. The research involved four distinct groups: male recreational gamblers, males diagnosed with internet gambling disorder (IGD), female recreational gamblers, and females diagnosed with IGD.  Across all groups, gambling caused increased brain activity. However, in the case of recreational gamblers of both genders, brain activity returned to normal levels shortly after gambling ceased. Similarly, females with IGD displayed a return to baseline brain activity levels soon after stopping gambling. In contrast, males with IGD exhibited prolonged periods of heightened brain activity. The findings from the study suggest that the sustained increased brain activity experienced by male gamblers may contribute to their 11% higher likelihood of developing problem gambling compared to female gamblers. How Does Gambling Addiction Take Over? As we've previously suggested, and Dr. Potenza's research has confirmed, there's a big difference between recreational and compulsive gambling. Players exhibit certain patterns of behavior that deepen their gambling addiction tendencies. Here are some of the most common reasons behind the betting psychology of compulsive gamblers. Chasing Losses Problem gamblers commonly fall into the trap of chasing losses. They believe that if they keep gambling, they have a chance to recoup their losses and regain financial stability. This behavior stems from a cognitive bias called the gambler's fallacy, which is the false belief that previous losses increase the likelihood of future wins.  Reward Pathways and Addiction Gambling can activate the brain's reward pathways, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reinforcement. Over time, problem gamblers may develop a tolerance, needing larger bets or more frequent gambling to achieve the same level of satisfaction. This can lead to addiction, where the brain becomes dependent on the release of dopamine triggered by gambling. Emotional Escape  Gambling can provide an escape from negative emotions, stress, or personal problems. For some problem gamblers, the act of gambling offers temporary relief and a distraction from real-life difficulties. The excitement and thrill of gambling can provide a temporary euphoria or numbness, allowing players to forget about their problems, even if it's for a little while.   Denial and Optimism Bias Problem gamblers may engage in denial, downplaying the negative consequences of their gambling behavior or rationalizing their actions. They may also have an optimism bias, believing that their luck will eventually change and they will win big. These cognitive biases prevent problem gamblers from recognizing the severity of their gambling problem and can contribute to their continued engagement in gambling activities. Final Thoughts on Gambling Psychology   Casino psychology plays a crucial role in understanding the motivations, behaviors, and consequences associated with gambling. The popularity of gambling as a hobby can be attributed to factors such as the thrill and excitement it provides, the ease of access through online platforms, and the social aspect of gambling.  Dr. Mark Potenza's research has significantly contributed to the field, particularly in studying the distinctive brain reactions of problem gamblers. His studies have revealed differences in brain activity between recreational gamblers and those with gambling disorders, as well as the influence of gender on gambling-related brain responses. Problem gamblers often continue to gamble due to cognitive biases, chasing losses, reward pathway activation, emotional escapism, and denial. Understanding these psychological factors is crucial in developing effective prevention and treatment strategies for gambling addiction. Gambling Psychology FAQ  What are the psychological effects of gambling?  For some individuals, excessive gambling can lead to negative psychological impacts. These can include increased stress, anxiety, depression, and feelings of guilt or shame.  What is the gambler's mindset? The mindset of a gambler can vary, but common characteristics include a desire for excitement and thrill, a belief in luck or superstition, and a willingness to take risks.  What are the three types of gamblers?  There are three types of gamblers: recreational, professional, and problem. While recreational and professional gamblers use gambling as a source of entertainment and profit, respectively, problem gamblers have addictive tendencies.  What triggers gambling addiction?  Gambling psychology recognizes several factors that can influence the development of gambling addiction, namely character traits, social factors, availability, and accessibility.  What is the most addictive form of gambling?  The most addictive form of gambling is internet gambling, with slot machines and video poker being the most addictive games. The psychology of slot machines dictates that instant gratification from winnings boosts desire to play more and more, leading to addiction as a result.

The gambling industry as a whole has developed into a considerable economic force. It's responsible for substantial revenues in the tourism and hospitality industries, but its influence goes beyond traditional casinos, with online platforms accounting for a massive piece of gambling transactions. Join us as we dissect how gambling's convoluted yet intriguing economic footprint affects the global economy, contributes to GDP in various nations, and creates jobs. The Significant Role of Gambling Platforms in Local Economies and Small Businesses When Atlantic City began its operations, the intention was to boost tax revenue and help urban redevelopment. Initially, there was a positive impact on the regional economy, with the industry generating capital investment, high-paying jobs, and a consistent flow of tourism. Employment in the metropolitan area more than doubled in the decade following the first casino opening in 1978. The ripple effect of the economic contributions is significant and far-reaching, benefiting a wide array of sectors and supporting a diverse range of small businesses.?? If we take the US as an example, we can see that casinos are responsible for generating a staggering $52 billion in revenues for small businesses in diverse industries such as real estate, finance, health care, STEM, manufacturing, and information technology. In terms of employment, they support approximately 350,000 jobs in small businesses. These jobs are not limited to the industry alone; a substantial portion are in non-gambling sectors like local restaurants and shops. These businesses often see a marked increase in customer traffic and economic activity due to their proximity to gambling properties. Furthermore, the contribution of casinos to small business employee wages is notable, with $13 billion being supported annually. Economic Benefits of Land-Based Casinos & Online Gambling Platforms These platforms contribute significantly to government revenues through taxation and licensing fees, sustaining public services and infrastructure. Gambling ventures boost local economies and create numerous employment opportunities, from technology and software development to customer service roles. They also stimulate technological innovation as the competitive market drives advancements in digital security, user interface design, and gaming software. Lastly, regulated gambling markets aid in the fight against illegal gambling by improving consumer protection and promoting responsible gambling habits. Let's go over these advantages in greater detail below. Tax Revenue The capability of the gambling business to generate tax revenue is a critical economic benefit, allowing increased government investment in essential services and infrastructure. Direct tax contributions include corporate taxes, gambling-specific taxes, and license fees. Indirectly, it adds to sales and service tax income. Spending on hotels, restaurants, and other local services in known casino locations increases the government's proceeds. The tax revenue generated from the gambling industry is often earmarked for specific public welfare projects. Governments use tax income to finance education, healthcare, social services, and community development initiatives. To understand the scope of these numbers, betting online resulted in $1.5 billion in sports betting tax revenue for 27 US jurisdictions in 2022. New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois generated more than $100 million each. When we look at the market share of online poker in the US, the numbers are just as impressive. In 2022, the poker market size was worth $86.2 billion and is expected to have a growth rate of around 13.5% between 2023 and 2030. Given the sheer magnitude of the market, we can say with certainty that online poker contributes heavily towards tax revenue, among other economic factors. Job Creation The jobs created by the industry also contribute to tax revenue. This contribution is substantial, given the industry's role in employment across multiple sectors, including technology, hospitality, and customer service: Direct employment includes positions such as dealers, security personnel, managers, customer service representatives, and technical support staff. Online platforms also demand a range of IT professionals, from software developers to cybersecurity experts. Indirect employment expands opportunities in companies specializing in game design, online security, marketing, and advertising. The industry also contributes to the workforce's skill development. Many roles in the gambling sector, especially in online casinos, require specialized skills, prompting the need for comprehensive training programs. This skill development can benefit employees' long-term career prospects, even outside the gambling industry. Reduction in Crime Legalization directly influences the reduction of illegal operations, which are often associated with other forms of crime. However, the effect of legalized gambling is a subject of ongoing research and debate. Although research indicates that legalization does not necessarily lead to a rise in crime, specific types of crime, such as theft or fraud, may increase in areas surrounding casinos, possibly due to addiction issues. Tourism Gambling attracts visitors from around the world and stimulates local economies. Locations like Las Vegas, Macau, and Monte Carlo are prime examples of how casinos can become central to a city's identity. Modern establishments are a vital part of integrated resorts, offering a combination of entertainment, hospitality, and retail services and appealing not just to gamblers but also to families and business travelers. Casino venues also host events like poker tournaments, entertainment shows, and conventions. These events often garner international attention, creating a cycle of economic growth and development for the hosting regions. Everlasting Imprint of The Gambling Industry on the Global Economy With its complex web of economic, social, and cultural impacts, the gambling industry plays a multifaceted role in society. The economic impact of the industry on a global scale is far-reaching, with just as significant influence on national economies. Whether land-based or online, revenues generated contribute heavily towards the way countries build, employ, and ultimately, prosper. It is needless to say with this industry growing at the pace it is, the role of regulatory bodies and legislation are responsible for keeping up to ensure that individuals, communities, and countries can thrive alongside the industry, without the risk of jeopardizing the safety and well-being of local and global communities.

Card counting in blackjack is a method for determining whether the next hand will be advantageous to the player or the dealer. Card counters aim to keep count of both high and low-value cards to minimize the house edge as much as possible. This practice ultimately allows players to determine the composition of remaining cards before they are dealt and played, leading to minimizing losses. If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, you’ve come to the right place! Learn how to count cards in blackjack, and how to leverage it in our insightful article. What is Card Counting in Blackjack In a nutshell, card counting in blackjack can be described as a way for players to get an edge over the house by applying a simple mathematical equation. How does counting cards work? Simple. The practice of card counting is based on the basic principle that in blackjack, past events influence future events. Specific values are assigned to cards, and as soon as the cards have been shuffled and dealt, these values are counted while you play blackjack online or at land-based casinos.  We’ve listed some handy card-counting basics below: A player assigns a value to each card based on its face and number, either negative, positive, or zero. For example, there is a +1 count for cards 2 through 6, a 0 or neutral count for cards 7 to 9, and a -1 count for cards 10 through Ace. Counting begins at 0. Players will add value to the count as each card is dealt. Accordingly, if an Ace, King, 2, 7, 6, 4, and 5 are dealt, the count is +2. Face-down cards are not counted until they are flipped. The true count is calculated to determine the profitability of bets and is calculated using the running count. When a player is confident of the ‘true count,’ they can alter their bets according to their advantage. With fewer cards left in the shoe, the player makes more decisive wagers and improves their true count. As cards are dealt out of the deck, the counting continues. It is based on the count that betting decisions are made. It is ideal for a player to place a higher bet if the count is positive and a lower bet if it is negative. Running Count vs. True Count The running count in card counting when it comes to blackjack allows players to keep track of high and low value cards where cards 2-6 are attributed a value of +1, neutral cards, or 7-9, are valued at 0, and high cards (10, J, Q, K, A) are valued at -1.  A running count with a positive number does not necessarily mean that you would have the edge over the house though. To determine whether you should increase your bets, you need to consider the true count first. In general, a true count of +2 or higher is considered an indication of the player having an edge and that profitable bets can be placed. To calculate the true count, the running count is divided by the number of decks remaining.  Your advantage increases as the true count increases. Therefore, when the house has an advantage, or when the true count is low, players should wager as little as possible and increase their wagers proportionally. Tip: To successfully count cards in blackjack, be sure you start counting when the shoe is empty to get accurate calculations! Blackjack Card Counting Systems Blackjack players use various card counting systems and strategies, some of which are more distinctive than others. The level of difficulty of these varies from straightforward to advanced. The level of difficulty of the system should however not dictate which one you use, as several factors influence the applicability of the system. A straightforward system will be easier to apply in a simple game with fewer decks, for example. Each system is aimed at solving a specific problem and not every system will be ideal for every game. Next, we provide an overview of each to illustrate how to apply them. There are three main types of systems: Balanced/Unbalanced SystemWhere Balanced systems always begin and end in 0, and Unbalanced can end in Level 1 or Level 2, 3, 4 SystemWhere Level 1 values can be 1, 0, or -1, with the other levels being more complex with higher values included.Ace Side CountCounting and or keeping track of how many aces have been played. Hi-Lo System System Type: Balanced, Level 1 Difficulty Level: Beginner Ace Side Count: No Probably the most common and easiest strategy, Hi-Lo card counting is based on the basic principle of calculating the ratio of high and low cards left. More high cards would be beneficial to the player, while more low cards would be beneficial to the dealer.  Card values are allocated as discussed earlier, with low cards (2-6) valued at -1, neutral cards (7-9) valued at 0, and high cards (A, J, Q, K) valued at +1. As a result of the combination of neutral, high, and low cards in a deck equal to zero, the Hi-Lo strategy is a ‘balanced’ counting strategy where the count will always begin and end in 0. The Hi-Lo system requires you to calculate a running total of all cards played in the game, including those held by the dealer and other players, which is known as the running count. It is however the true count that will indicate the ratio between high and low cards. This does not have to be an exact calculation but can be an estimate. To explain the Hi-Lo counting system in classic blackjack we’ll look at an example: Once the dealer introduces a new shoe to the table, the Hi-Lo strategy begins. Since no cards have been dealt, the running count is 0. Once the first round of cards is dealt, players can calculate the running count by adding all visible cards (face-up cards) on the table. Let’s say there are five cards on the table, an Ace (-1), 2 (+1), 6 (+1), 9 (0), and a 7 (0). Adding these totals would give you a running count of +1. Next, to determine whether it would be a good idea to increase your bets, you need to calculate the true count by dividing +1 by the total decks left on the table. Here’s another example of calculating the true count: In an 8-deck blackjack game, you have a running count of +7. The shoe has roughly four decks left, giving you a true count of +1.75, or 2. Omega II System System Type: Balanced, Level 2 Difficulty Level: Intermediate Ace Side Count: No Bruce Carlson developed the Omega II card counting system for intermediate-level players, although today it is considered a complex system used by experienced players only. The reason a lot of experienced players use this system is for the accuracy it offers since it is a two-level system. Aces and 8s are valued at 0, cards 2, 3, and 7 have a value of +1, 4-6 have a value of +2, 9s are counted as -1, while the 10 and the face cards are valued at -2.  Since 4-6 cards are considered the worst cards in blackjack, they are valued at +2 and of course, the 10 and face cards (J, Q, K) are valued at -2 as these cards can get a player to get a natural blackjack quicker.  The fact that this is a multi-level system might make it a little bit more complicated to calculate as you play. As with the Hi-Lo system, a true count needs to be calculated by dividing the running count by the number of decks left in the shoe. Hi-Opt I & II Systems System Type: Balanced, Level 1 (Hi-Opt I), Level 2 (Hi-Opt II) Difficulty Level: Intermediate Ace Side Count: Yes There are two Hi-Opt systems, Hi-Opt I, and Hi-Opt II. While these two systems are different, they are related and we’ll therefore discuss both here. Card values in Hi-Opt I consist of: 10 & Face Cards: -1 3-6: +1 Everything else: 0 Players must keep a running count while also keeping track of Aces. To make informed bets, the true count is calculated by dividing the running count by the number of decks left in the shoe. Card values in the Hi-Opt II system: Aces, 8 & 9: 0 10 & Face cards: -2 2 & 3: +1 4 & 5: +2 6 & 7: +1 It is important to note that the Hi-Opt II system is notably harder to master than the simpler Hi-Opt I. Since it is a two-level system, players have two card values to add and subtract by. 2, 3, 6, or 7 receive a +1 value. As soon as the players see cards 4 and 5, they must add 2 to their running count. In the case of 10 and the face cards, players need to subtract 2 from their running count. The value of an Ace, 8 or 9, is 0. As with the Hi-Opt I system, the true count is calculated by dividing the running count by the number of decks on the table. Wong Halves System System Type: Balanced, Level 3 Difficulty Level: Advanced Ace Side Count: Yes This system was developed by Stanford Wong and is also the only one that makes use of fractions. Here is a quick overview of card values in the Wong Halves system, keeping in mind that three values are to be tracked when using it: Aces & 10s: -1 3s, 4s, 6s: +1 8s: 0 9s: -0.5 2s & 7s: +0.5 5s: +1.5 To avoid fractions, players can double the value of ?. To determine the odds of winning, convert the running count to a true count. Calculating the final count after each deck would be a good idea. It’s easier to do this than to calculate a final count from several decks of cards. If you are avoiding calculations with fractions, remember to double the number of decks you would have divided the running count by. Red 7 System System Type: Unbalanced, Level 1 Difficulty Level: Beginner Ace Side Count: No As a one-level system, the Red 7 system of counting cards in blackjack is simple and easy for beginners to learn. The system works based on high and low cards and is seen as a variation of the Hi-Lo counting system. Aces and 10s are valued at -1, 2-6 cards are valued at +1, red 7s in the deck count as +1, black 7s are valued at 0, and all 8s and 9s are also counted at 0. Thanks to singling out red 7s, there is no need for players to calculate a true count. As with other unbalanced systems, counting starts with a negative count, with every deck of cards equalling -2. When playing with six decks then, you would start counting at -12. A running count of 0 indicates that you have a 0.5% edge over the house. When the running counts increase, bet sizes are increased by increments depending on the number of decks you are playing. In a nutshell, it is better for the players if the final running count is higher when using this counting system. KO System System Type: Unbalanced, Level 1 Difficulty Level: Beginner and Intermediate Ace Side Count: No Commonly known as the Knock-Out card counting system and is suitable for both beginners and intermediate players. This system was introduced in a book entitled Knock Out Blackjack written by Fuchs and Vancura. Like the Hi-Lo method, tens, queens, jacks, kings, and aces are assigned a -1, whereas 2-7 are assigned a +1. On the other hand, 8s and 9s are marked as 0. When all cards have been dealt, the final count will not equal zero, indicating that the system is not balanced. This also means that there is no need to calculate a true count. Unlike other systems, counting does not start at 0, but the number of decks determines the starting count. When the game is played with two decks, the count would start at -2, playing with six decks means you will start counting at -20, and eight decks will have you starting from -28. If you play with a single deck you would start counting at 0 as with the other counting systems. Bet sizes are increased as the running count climbs, with lower bet sizes placed the lower the running count. Zen Count System Type: Balanced, Level 2 Difficulty Level: Intermediate Ace Side Count: No Another balanced system is the Zen Count, where the count decreases to 0 at the end of the game. It is also one of the simplest systems, and the cards are valued as follows: 2, 3, 7: +1 4, 5, 6: +2 8, 9: 0 10, Jack, Queen, King: -2 Ace: -1 Since this is a balanced counting system, players need to calculate the true count by dividing the running count by the estimated number of decks left. The Zen Count system is considered to be one of the best counting systems to help players decide when to raise their bets. This is due to the favorable correlation the system offers, standing at 0.96. Bets are increased as the true count increases, with a true count of 0 or less requiring a minimum bet size. Of course, players must also be aware of this steady increase to avoid catching the casino’s attention. Dynamics of Team Card Counting Team card counting is in no way a new phenomenon, with multiple blackjack card-counting teams trying to up the house all over the globe. The most popular blackjack team is without a doubt the MIT card counting team, a team that started in the 70s and is also the inspiration behind the popular movie 21. Teams use a variety of counting systems, but notably, the system used by the MIT card counting team is largely based on the Hi-Lo system, which assigns the same values to each card. As a result, high cards are -1, low cards are +1, and the rest are 0. The team also used a three-person team strategy that included: A big player, A controller A spotter. After the spotter verified that the count was favorable, they would signal the big player to place the bet. The team could beat several casinos and make millions of dollars within a short period. How to Count Cards with 1 Deck vs. Multiple Decks Now that we’ve covered the basics of card counting and explained some of the systems you can exploit, we’ll skim over how to apply your knowledge when playing single-deck or multi-deck blackjack games. 1 Deck Card Counting Using the Hi-Lo system, players in single-deck games only need the running count to assess their advantage. A true count isn’t necessary. As a result, you can spend more time applying basic strategy to single deck blackjack card counting. New card counters will enjoy single-deck blackjack games thanks to the simplicity it affords. With fewer decks, players have the best odds, and beginner counters can easily track their advantage. Additionally, single-deck blackjack has a house edge of just 0.16%. Online casinos sometimes add restrictions to single-deck blackjack games to tip the odds in their favor. For example, some rules restrict players’ moves and winnings, such as limiting re-splits and letting the dealer hit on a soft 17. Counting Cards with Multiple Deck Games Learning how to count cards in blackjack with multiple decks can seem tricky, especially since players have to keep track of both the running and the true count. This can be done using a balanced counting system like Hi-Lo. Using the true count, every card counting system can be used in blackjack, regardless of the number of decks. You can adjust your bets accordingly when you know how many high-value cards are left in the shoe. To calculate the true count, the running count is divided by the number of decks on the table, which will give you an indication of the total number of high cards left. Let’s look at a practical example: If you are playing with six decks, and you have a running count of +12, the true count will be two (12 ÷ 6 = 2), indicating two high cards left per deck. Where this calculation might get tricky is keeping track of the number of decks left on the table—keeping in mind that the importance of an accurate true count increases as the number of decks left decreases. How Casinos Try To Prevent Card Counting While card counting at land-based casinos is common, and certainly not illegal, one cannot help but wonder whether or not it is possible to count cards online. Can you count cards in online blackjack? Yes, it is possible! It is, however, extremely difficult. Online casinos use the following methods to reduce or eliminate a card counter’s advantage in live blackjack: CSMs (Continuous Shuffling Machines): It is impossible for players to count cards when the dealer is using these devices. Decks (typically between 3-5) are constantly shuffled, making it impossible to calculate the variance between high and low value cards left. Deck Penetration: Referring to the distribution of cards dealt before reshuffling, deck penetration is a cornerstone of successful card counting. In some online casinos, 8-deck shoes are replaced after 50% of the cards have been played, rendering card counting ineffective. Rounds Per Hour: In card counting, the general rule of thumb is that the more rounds you can play per hour, the more you can win. The speed of live blackjack games limits the number of hands played and the overall winnings of card counters. Blackjack Rules: A 6:5 payout or the dealer hitting on soft 17 can increase the house edge so much that card counting becomes impossible. These, among other game rules, are sometimes implemented to counter-act card counting. Card Scanning: Before adding cards to the table, dealers sometimes scan them. Then, the casino’s systems analyze players’ betting patterns and table cards to identify any counting. Look for online casinos that pay 3:2 for live blackjack, if you want to play live blackjack. Choose a table where the dealer manually shuffles the cards or uses a batch shuffler. You can still count cards with these systems depending on deck penetration. Lastly, look for live blackjack games with favorable rules. Tips for Mastering Card Counting in Blackjack Some players struggle to keep track of their cards when they combine card counting systems with basic strategy. Before even attempting card counting, players should know basic blackjack strategy by heart. Once you’ve got the basic strategy down, you’ll need to practice card counting until it becomes second nature. Below are some exercises you can try. Read the basic blackjack strategy chart out loud several times a day to ensure you can recite it without looking at it. Practice your knowledge of basic strategy by playing at home until you are comfortable with your level of knowledge and understanding. Next, you need to practice your card counting and reaching accurate running counts. Start by counting the values of a single deck of cards, until you’ve reached the last card. If you did not reach a running count of 0 you made a mistake. Continue practicing and counting for as long as is necessary.  Once you are confident that you can automatically calculate and keep track of the running count,  it’s time to put what you’ve learned to the test. Ask a friend to play with you, and play a couple of rounds to test your skills. Next, it’s time to see how your running count skills fare in practice. Visit a casino and watch other blackjack players play. Try to keep track of the running count as you watch. It’s essential not to attempt playing at this stage yet, you still have to practice calculating the true count! To practice calculating the true count, get your blackjack gear out and get ready to do some maths. You’ll need six decks of cards and 30 pieces of paper with the numbers 1-30 written on it. With an empty discard tray, pull a number from the ones you’ve prepared and divide it by six (six decks on the table). Continue pulling numbers and doing the division by six. Once you have done so about 30 times, place one deck of cards in the discard tray and all the numbered papers back in the container you are using to pull them from. Restart the process but this time, divide the number you pull by five (five decks on the table). Continue this process until you have worked your way through all decks. These practices should help you master the art of card counting. You can also practice calculating the true count by doing simple divisions while jogging or relaxing. It is essential to get these basics right before attempting to try them out in real games!  FAQ Is it legal to count cards in blackjack? No, while it is frowned upon, no law states that it is not allowed. The US and British laws do not prohibit card counting. The casinos, however, strictly prohibit players from using any external card-counting device or person to assist them in counting cards. In general, casinos oppose card counting and try to prevent it. Often, they ban suspected card counters from playing in the casinos. Some casinos, especially in Nevada, strictly prohibit the use of card-counting apps and devices.  How do online casinos minimize card counting? Online casinos complicate the process by adding more decks. Consequently, it is more difficult to identify the concentration of high and low cards left in the shoe. Casinos may also use Continuous Shuffling Machines, which makes it impossible to count cards when playing blackjack. Does card counting work in online blackjack? Yes, you can count cards when playing blackjack online against live dealers. If you want to know how to count cards in online blackjack, you can apply all the systems and strategies we’ve explained in this article. It is important to note that counting cards in online blackjack is not as profitable as doing so at land-based casinos due to several reasons, but more specifically, the pace of online blackjack games. Can team card counting strategies increase success rates in blackjack? Yes, it absolutely can increase success rates to play in a team setting. What could be especially beneficial from team card counting is an increase in the Expected Value or profit that can be earned, as this increases with the addition of shares in the overall bankroll. More players also reduce the risk. What are common beginner card counting mistakes? Among the many mistakes beginners make, not applying basic strategy is the biggest. Next is overbetting and not managing their bankroll effectively, and last but not least, making insurance bets thinking that it could have a positive outcome when there is a 70% chance that it won’t.

Which sites are frequented more, land-based or online casinos? Which games do players tend to prefer? We crunch the numbers, comparing the metrics of traditional casino visitors with their online counterparts. The Most Important Indicators Through Numbers The casino audience is evolving alongside the industry—as gambling expands, the demographic changes. Here's an overview of the latest trends in gambling, who are spinning the reels online against those doing the same in the bustling halls of traditional casinos, and which sector of online gambling takes the biggest piece of the pie. The global online gambling industry is expected to grow by 8.54% YOY by 2027 (Statista) The industry is expected to generate $95.05 billion in revenue by 2023. The profit is estimated to grow at an annual rate of 8.54%, resulting in a market volume of $131.90 billion by 2027. The total casino industry is set to increase at a CAGR of 46.1% from $99.87 billion in 2022 to $145.92 billion by the end of 2023. It will continue to be on an upward trajectory, and it's anticipated to reach $163.71 billion by 2027, with a CAGR of 2.0%. We can see that the online industry has surpassed land-based establishments in revenue, with a projection to account for an even bigger market share by 2027. 26% of the world's population has gambled at least once in their lives (Gambling Industry News) Note: Every year, approximately 4.2 billion individuals place some sort of bet. A recent study conducted in 44 nations found that 56% of polled individuals gambled at least once in 2023. The global casino and online gambling industry has experienced a turbulent period from its peak in 2013, with revenues of $334 billion, to a pandemic-induced low of $193.3 billion in 2020. The estimated value of the industry stood at $249 billion in 2022, with an anticipated increase to $263.3 billion in 2023. Despite this recovery, these figures still fall short of pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the lasting impact COVID-19 has had. Looking at individual countries, the United States leads with a staggering $600 billion in gambling revenue, a figure that eclipses the combined revenues of several other leading gambling markets. The United Kingdom comes second with a notable $18.6 billion, followed by France at $14.9 billion, Canada at $14 billion, Australia at $10.9 billion, Germany at $10.3 billion, and Macau at $5.24 billion. Slot sessions from July 2022 to September 2023 dropped from 8 to 7.6 million (UK Gambling Commission) When we compare the revenues and other aspects of online slots and machine sessions in physical locations, we can see contrasting trends. For online slot gaming, the average session length decreased slightly from 19 minutes in July 2022 to 17 minutes in September 2023. The number of sessions lasting over an hour remained in the same range of about 3 million monthly, but the total number grew from 43.4 to 45.8 million. In contrast, for slot machine sessions in popular gambling cities and other locations, there was a general downward trend. Additionally, sessions lasting over an hour decreased from 215,262 in July 2022 to just 182,193 in September 2023. Gross gambling yield (GGY) for online slots in the UK increased by 8% YOY between 2022 and 2023 (UK Gambling Commission) This increase amounts to ￡589 million, which indicates substantial growth in this sector. The number of spins and the average monthly active accounts both saw an 11% increase, signifying heightened player engagement. Despite the overall increase in GGY, the GGY per active player decreased by 3%, suggesting that while more people played, individual spending dropped slightly. Physical slot machines saw a marginal decrease in GGY of 0.4% year-on-year, holding steady at ￡280 million. The average spend per session remained consistent at ￡12.09, indicating that player spending habits didn't change significantly despite bigger market fluctuations. There was a slight decrease in the average number of spins per session by a single spin, which may reflect a minor decline in engagement or a change in player behavior toward more cautious spending. Sports betting apps and websites have over 127 million users  (Gambling Industry News) This is a massive increase from 60.3 million in 2019 and is predicted to reach 156.9 million by 2025. Online casinos have the second-highest number of players, with 94.1 million, a 62% rise from 2019. By 2025, this amount is predicted to rise to 112 million. In 2022, desktop devices had a 45% market share in online gambling. The Factors Influencing Player Preferences for Casino Types Navigating the choice between online and traditional casinos involves weighing various aspects. The following table presents a side-by-side comparison to illustrate the core differences that influence player preferences. AspectOnline CasinosTraditional CasinosAtmosphereVirtual environment with graphical representations.The real, tangible atmosphere with sensory experiences.Accessibility & Convenience24/7 availability via the internet. Physical presence required; constrained by location and hours.Technological AdvancementsAdoption of VR and AR for immersive experiences; innovation in casino games and featuresIt may incorporate modern tech for specific games but is generally limited to traditional methods.RegulationsSubject to varying online gambling laws, which can be more flexible.Often more heavily regulated with stricter access control.RTPHigher RTPs due to lower operational costs. Transparency in RTP stats.Lower RTPs on average due to higher overhead costs. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, traditional casinos saw an immediate and sharp decline in visitations due to lockdowns enforced to prevent virus spread. The reduced foot traffic and operational limitations had a dire financial impact on many establishments, some of which could not recover and were forced to close permanently. Online casinos experienced a surge in activity as they became a convenient and safe alternative for gamblers. The pandemic period saw a substantial increase in the user base as individuals who had never considered online gambling before turned to it out of necessity or curiosity.  Changing Preferences Indicate Continuous Growth For Online Gambling The surge in online activity is not just a rebound from the pandemic lows but also an indication of changing player preferences. Convenience, tech innovation, and the comfort of remote access drive an increasing number of gamblers to online platforms. Comparative data on slots and betting patterns underscore this transition, with online slots experiencing increased engagement and GGY. Traditional casinos, while still valued for their unique atmosphere and tangible experiences, must adapt to these changes to maintain their position in the evolving gambling landscape.