Hi Opt 1 Count System

The Hi Opt 1 Count is the variation of highly optimum card-counting system used by advanced blackjack players. In fact it resembles the Hi/Lo system with a few differences that make the card count more accurate. So, if you are already familiar with the basic card-counting systems it is time to consider the Hi Opt 1 Count at blackjack table. This system is advantageous as it provides the higher player’s edge than the other systems. Some players say that this slight larger edge is not the reason for using such complicated system. Anyway, it is up to you whether to use it or not.

How Hi Opt 1 Card-Counting System Works

This system like many others is based on counting the cards dealt during the game by adding and subtracting 1. In order to use it you just need to learn the value of each card in the deck and not lose the focus at the table. The cards in Hi Opt 1 Count system are counted as follows:

Card	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	Jack	Queen	King	Ace
Count	0	+1	+1	+1	+1	0	0	0	-1	-1	-1	-1	0

So, all 2s in the deck are neutral as they are counted as 0 and do not change the total count when added. All small cards from 3 to 6 are counted as +1 as they are played. The (middle) cards 7, 8, and 9 together with Ace are also neutral as they are counted as 0. The rest big cards that include 10, Jack, Queen and King are negative and have the count of -1. As you understand each Ace dealt at the table doesn’t influence the card count as it is neutral but there are different rules of tracking Aces. Hi Opt 1 Count system does not take Aces into consideration in the running count but recommends marking the number of Aces that have been played as they still influence the game outcome according to the Basic Strategy.