How does edge sorting work in Baccarat, and why has it led to controversy in some high-profile cases?

[Killman2002]

Edge sorting is a controversial technique that allows players to exploit subtle imperfections on the backs of playing cards, such as asymmetrical patterns or printing errors, to identify high- and low-value cards. This method gained public attention due to high-profile cases, including Phil Ivey's, where players requested specific card orientations during play to gain an advantage.

 

[CR7]

Indeed, edge sorting is a technique where players exploit the subtle differences in the patterns on the backs of playing cards to gain an advantage in a casino game like baccarat. By carefully observing and identifying imperfections like asymmetrical patterns or printing errors, players can distinguish between high-value and low-value cards.

In the case of Phil Ivey's controversial edge sorting strategy, he and his accomplice used a specific request for the orientation of the cards during play to effectively sort them and gain an unfair advantage. These requests involved asking the dealer to arrange the high-value cards in a specific way, enabling Ivey and his partner to determine the cards' values with greater accuracy and improve their odds of winning.

The controversy surrounding edge sorting stems from the ethical implications of using this method to manipulate the outcome of a game rather than relying on skill or chance. Casinos consider edge sorting to be a form of cheating, as it gives players an unfair advantage over the house and compromises the integrity of the game.

Overall, the use of edge sorting in high-stakes games like baccarat has led to legal battles, such as the one involving Phil Ivey, where casinos have accused players of engaging in deceptive practices to gain an edge. As a result, the issue of edge sorting continues to spark debates about the boundaries of acceptable gaming strategies and the ethics of leveraging technicalities to beat the house.

 

[Lazza]

High-profile cases involving professional gamblers, most notably Phil Ivey, brought edge sorting considerable attention. At the Borgata casino in Atlantic City in 2012, Ivey and his accomplice won about $9.6 million.