Gard: KISS I vs KISS III for beginner

[Gard]

I've never played BJ, but now I want to give it a try. I've got BS fairly well and practice it w/ the hitorstand game and now a demo copy of CVBJ. I need a LOT more practice because the distraction of counting is stiil causing mistakes in BS. (Let alone the distractions of a real casino!)

Here's my question: I'm planning to use the KISS count from BJ Bluebook II, but I'm thinking of learning the KISS III counting method with the KISS I strategy at first. The KISS III involves more arithmetic, but the categories are simpler - either 8,9 = 0, or higher = -1, or lower = +1 (except red 2). With the KISS I you have to discriminate non-contiguous categories, so in a way it seems harder. Might as well go ahead and learn KISS III count, and then not have to adjust, I think. Any problems with the approach I am contemplating?

[Fred Renzey]

> I'm planning to use the
> KISS count from BJ Bluebook II.
> The KISS III involves more arithmetic, but
> the categories are contiguous. With the KISS I
> you have to discriminate non-contiguous
> categories, so in a way it
> seems harder. Might as well go ahead and
> learn KISS III count. Any problems with the
> approach I am contemplating?

> snip: The KISS I is an abridged "break-in" system for players trying to graduate beyond basic strategy without jumping right into a full scale card count. Lots of players don't need it, yet some will never get beyond it.

The thing about KISS is you can start at stage I, retain everything about it and then add one high and one low card to your count if/when you feel ready. Two generations of that and you're at KISS III which is on a performance par with KO and Hi/Lo. KISS I provides 70% of the net edge and KISS II provides 90%. It's your call.