The MBS advantage

In order for a player to increase their advantage by up to 3% or more, they must modify their basic strategy in accordance with whatever the true count is. After having practiced their Blackjack and subsequently realised the value of both the correct basic strategy and betting procedures, the player should now be aware of the advantage they hold over the casino. Nevertheless, the path to success is far from complete. By obtaining a thorough knowledge of MBS, the player equips himself with the greatest possible advantage they can have over the casino. The correct application of MBS is undoubtedly what distinguishes a good player from a truly great player.

It has been noted that for a player to obtain the best long- term results, BS should be followed whenever the composition of the deck is either unknown or neutral. However studies have shown that as the ratio of high to low cards changes, BS must also change in order to maximise the player advantage. Fortunately, most of these plays are easy to remember by mere virtue of the fact that they make good financial sense.

For instance, in a situation where the true count is running favourably high for a player, i.e., there remain many 10-value cards to be dealt from the shoe, the dealer may draw an Ace and proceed to offer the player insurance. Think back and remember that BS instructs the player only to take insurance
in certain circumstances, the above not being one of them. BS however, applies only when the true count is unknown or neutral, and since the player knows the true count to be high, BS may be rightly considered unreliable. If a player has been counting the cards they will know that the likelihood of the dealer drawing a 10-value card to compliment their Ace is high. They would therefore be foolish not to take advantage of this knowledge i.e., not to accept the offered insurance. In other words, circumstance dictates that they must modify their BS.

The following tables indicate the correct playing options in accordance with the true count. After memorising these tables (which may prove hard but ultimately lucrative work), the player may not only congratulate themselves, but consider themselves as much a threat to the casinos as that most dreaded of visitors – the professional Blackjack player. They should bear in mind the famous Greek saying about luck being the bedfellow of skill. The player will no-doubt now make even more money from the game as “luck” will now accompany them at any Blackjack table in the world from Venice To Vegas. So good luck – you’ve earned it. Welcome to the elite.