The "Hi-Opt I" system of Card Counting
A more
advanced system of counting cards is the "Hi-Opt I" strategy. This is short
for high optimum and
sometimes called the "Einstein" count. It is similar
to other card counting systems such as the "K-O", and the "Hi-Lo" count, in that
you count the cards as their seen. Generally, it is a more difficult system and
designed for more advanced blackjack players and not for the beginner. What
makes this card counting system more difficult is additional rules and card value
changes that can become confusing. Memorizing the different value of each
card is therefore imperative. Losing track of the count can cause you to lose any
advantage the system can bring.
The card values are as follows:
Two/Seven/Eight/Nine/Ace = 0
Three/Four/Five/Six = +1
Ten/Jack/Queen/King = - 1
While
it does require much more concentration than other systems available it is considered
more of a professional card counting system. If you are able to remember the
card values as you're adding and subtracting them from the running count than you might
have the concentration needed to use this advanced system. Because
of the increased concentration on the count, few weekend warriors bother with this
system.
Just like
other "End play" systems, you base your bet on how high the count goes. The higher
the count the more you should bet. However, you must be aware of the fact
that the casinos watch for "jump bets."
When the
deck becomes favorable you should bet more then usual. Just don’t do this every
time you think you’re going
to get a good hand. If you continually only increase
your bets when you have a high count the dealer might catch on to what you’re doing.
One way to avoid detection is to talk with the dealer and distract them. Just pretend
to be having a good time and not focusing on counting cards. Also tip the dealer
when winning because it could save you from the dealer questioning you about counting
cards.
Also with
the "Hi-opt I" card counting system, separate rules are used to keep track aces.
Ken Uston
recommended
counting the aces on your toes.
While
some players feel this system is a far superior counting method, we feel it's
not as accurate as the
"Flow" method"of
counting cards.