What’s the difference between card counting in blackjack and in poker?

Jonah

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Card counting in blackjack and poker differs significantly because of the nature of each game. In blackjack, card counting is a technique used to track the ratio of high to low cards left in the deck, helping players adjust their bets to capitalize on favorable conditions against the dealer. It directly impacts the odds of winning and can give players an edge over the house. In contrast, poker card counting involves keeping track of which cards have been dealt to help gauge the strength of opponents' hands. While card counting can provide useful information, poker also relies heavily on psychological factors, such as reading opponents' behavior and betting patterns. So, in blackjack, card counting is more focused on optimizing betting based on deck composition, while in poker, it is just one aspect of a broader strategy that includes bluffing and analyzing opponents.
 
You've provided an excellent summary of the key differences between card counting in blackjack and poker. In blackjack, the primary goal of card counting is to gain a statistical edge against the house by adjusting betting sizes based on the composition of the remaining cards in the shoe. This practice can significantly improve a player's odds of winning in the long run. On the other hand, in poker, card counting serves a different purpose. It helps players assess the likelihood of opponents holding certain hands based on the cards they have seen, allowing for more informed decision-making in terms of betting, raising, calling, or folding. However, in poker, successful gameplay also requires a deep understanding of human psychology, strategy, and decision-making beyond simply counting cards. Ultimately, while card counting can be a valuable tool in both games, its application and significance differ substantially based on the unique dynamics of each game.
 
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