Card counting systems are used by hundreds of professional players worldwide, as they have proven to be extremely efficient and accurate. Nowadays, there are many strategies available, giving gamblers the valuable opportunity to choose the one that suits them best.
A great number of systems are based on assigning point values to the cards, but they vary in their level of difficulty and efficiency. Although most are used only by advanced players because of their complexity, some basic systems have been specifically designed to enable even beginners to take advantage of them.
The Hi-Opt systems (Highly Optimum) are card counting methods renowned for their high levels of efficiency and accuracy. Hi-Opt I was developed first and was later upgraded, resulting in the creation of Hi-Opt II. Although both systems are regarded as moderately advanced, their count levels differ, and it is recommended that players who intend to learn them take the time to consider their similarities and differences.
Brief History of the Hi-Opt Card Counting Systems
The Hi-Opt I card counting system was developed in 1968 by Charles Einstein, which is why the method is often referred to as the Einstein Count. Einstein’s principal inspiration was Edward Thorp’s book Beat the Dealer; drawing on its concepts, he created Hi-Opt I. This system is very popular in blackjack because it provides a high level of accuracy and efficiency throughout the course of the game.
The Hi-Opt II card counting system was developed by Lance Humble, not long after the initial system was created. It is essentially an improved version of Hi-Opt I, building on its foundation and main principles.
Although it offers better accuracy and a higher probability of gaining an advantage over the casino, it is much more difficult to learn. Players should bear in mind that this system is only effective if applied correctly; to do so, they must remain extremely focused and disciplined.
Differences between Hi-Opt I and Hi-Opt II
The main difference between the two systems lies in the point values assigned to the cards, as the manner in which they are counted is crucial to the player’s performance at the table. This determines whether a strategy will be effective at predicting upcoming cards and, consequently, at giving gamblers the advantage they need.
As Hi-Opt II is the updated version, it is, understandably, more advanced and accurate than Hi-Opt I. However, it is much more complicated and harder to understand, which is not necessarily advantageous for players. This factor should not be underestimated because, if they cannot apply it correctly during the game, its accuracy and efficiency will not be sufficient to deliver the desired results.
Another difference is their count level: the Hi-Opt I is a level one system and the Hi-Opt II – level two. In most cases, an improved system has a higher count level because it becomes more complex and advanced. Hi-Opt I includes only three point values – plus one, minus one and zero – whereas the updated version adds new values of plus two and minus two, making it more difficult to track the cards at the table.
Similarities between the Hi-Opt Systems
The principal similarity between the two systems is that they are both balanced, meaning that if players count an entire deck from beginning to end, the final count should equal zero. This is good news, as balanced systems are generally considered easier to use and apply.
Another noteworthy similarity is that both strategies aim to give players a better chance of gaining an advantage over the casino and winning. Their creators’ priority was to develop a method that would be more effective and accurate than any other card counting system.
Hi-Opt Systems
Zen Count System
Wong Halves System
The Illustrious 18
Single-deck Card Counting
Assigned Card Values of the Hi-Opt Systems
Even though an improved version exists, many players continue to use this system because its plan is easier to comprehend. The assigned point values are as follows: cards from three through six are counted as plus one, all face cards and tens as minus one, and the remaining cards as zero. Consequently, this strategy resembles the Hi-Lo system, as the only cards that are counted differently are the ace and the two.
| Hi-Opt I Card Counting System | |
|---|---|
| Card Value | Count |
| 3, 4, 5, 6 | count +1 |
| 2, 7, 8, 9, A | count 0 |
| 10, J, Q, K | count -1 |
As already mentioned, the improvement of the initial system led to the creation of the Hi-Opt II system, which is much more accurate but also significantly more complicated. Its assigned point values are as follows: twos, threes, sixes and sevens are counted as plus one; fours and fives as plus two; eights, nines and aces as zero; and the remaining cards as minus two.
| Hi-Opt II Card Counting System | |
|---|---|
| Card Value | Count |
| 4, 5 | count +2 |
| 2, 3, 6, 7 | count +1 |
| 8, 9, A | count 0 |
| 10, J, Q, K | count -2 |
It is obvious that this scheme is far harder to memorise, as it uses more than three assigned values. Players should bear in mind that most casinos are full of distractions, making it difficult to concentrate and recall complex strategies. However, if they manage to do so they will gain a considerable edge over the casino and be able to adjust their bets accordingly.
Conclusion
In summary, the Hi-Opt systems are both very accurate and efficient for experienced players who already have a solid knowledge of basic card-counting methods. Hi-Opt I is similar to the Hi-Lo system, which makes it suitable for players who are not yet highly advanced, whereas Hi-Opt II is extremely complex and, to apply it correctly, players must invest a great deal of time in mastering it.
However, once understood, it offers players an incredible opportunity to increase their chances of winning by adjusting their bets and basic strategy accordingly. Furthermore, anyone wishing to take advantage of these systems must ensure that they are disciplined and able to maintain focus in a casino environment, which is often full of noise and other distractions.