Can anyone point me in the right direction to learn Hi Opt II? I have been using a unbalance level one system for years, and I think it is worth the effort to learn a better system since i almost exclusively play double deck. It seems like it would a very complicated playing strategy incorporating the ace side count. Example you are through one deck of a two deck shoe your count is neutral but only one ace has been delt. What do you do there?
Do you really want to do this? To be useful, Hi Opt II should be used with ace side count. You need to compute Bet True Count and Play True Count based on two counts on the fly. Zen is almost as powerful as Hi Opt II/ASC. But on the difficulty level, Hi Lo is 20, Zen is 35 and Hi Opt II/ASC is 80. Coming from an unbalanced count, you should learn Zen instead.Originally Posted by shake
Also consider that while the more complex and more efficient counts provide higher EV they also provide corresponding higher error rates which is a silent killer of EV.
I have no qualms about their technical superiority, but I must warn the average practitioner to evaluate the full scope of the system and it's impact on your game.
Whatever your choice, be willing to devote the time and practice to strive for error free skills, even while realizing one is never error free.
And, ZMF enjoys serving as mentor to those who strive.
Luck is nothing more than probability taken personally!
Side counting isn't hard with 2 decks but it is new. Make sure you can do both the side count and the calculations to get the betting TC before you put much effort into it. I would start side counting the ace with whatever system you already use and see how it goes. If side counting doesn't fit you there are some fine ace compromise counts that are level 2 counts that would get most of the improved stats you would see with Hiopt2. Using a straight side count to its fullest extent involves using quarter deck estimates of unseen cards. If you can't do that accurately you may be better off with an ace compromise count so you don't have to side count. You must master a level 2 count no matter what. Here are other additions to your skill set that goes with using ace neutral counts which of course implies you are side counting aces:
1) Keeping the side count and the main count at the same time.
2) Making accurate quarter deck estimates in order to use the information.
3) Factoring in the surplus/deficit ace information into your betting TC and possibly some playing decisions, especially insurance.
If you aren't strong on all of these, being perfect won't get the gain the simulator indicates you should get. With an ace compromise count you don't need to side count so only the change to level 2 counting skills is required, which is a given if you plan to upgrade anyway. Of course you can use a level 3 ace reckoned count like Halves but that is a different can of worms. I would suggest you try level 2 counting first since the card cancelations aren't as complicated.
On a more serious note, other than Flash recommending halves.
Any count, simple or Complex, requires practice to master. The more difficult the Count, the more time and dedication required to master. Jumping from an unbalanced count to a level 2 with sidecount is an u dertaking.
Many methods are in the archives regarding self practice at home. You don't need to be picture perfect to continue your education at the casino, provided your smart about it. Flat bet or bet with small spread. You won't make any money, but this gives you an opportunity to improve your skills under actual conditions. Cost to you, at a low limit table, will be low.
If you become proficient, and likely within a relatively compressed time span, you should be able to accurately count at high hands per hour.
I moved from an unbalanced count to a level 2 system with an ASC. I play mainly shoes. I spent about a month, 4-5 hours per day, of study and practice before I attempted to play in a casino. CVBJ and help from ZMF were invaluable in the process. You will see a world of difference moving from the unbalanced to a level 2 with an ASC. (For the better). Maintaining the count isn’t hard in even a shoe game but you will need to practice, practice, practice.
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I love this subject and this is best answer I looking for as I contemplate to move from Zen to HO2. I know my capability to calculate TC at 1/4 deck is far from accurate. While using Zen, I try to practice ASC but often lost the count of Ace. I looking to hear more opinions and tips/tricks on this subject. Thanks
My moniker, ZenMaster_Flash, was derived from my earliest years
as a Professional Player. I soon learned that while ZEN was a good
count, if "my skills were to pay the bills" I needed to move up to the
best practical count available ~ Hi-Opt II.
So ... for > 20 years I have been mentoring those acolytes who want
to play with power and accuracy.
I cannot play many hours a month, so my thought was I really want to make them count when I can play. I figured i would use chips or something to keep track of the ASC so that wouldnt take much effort. The reality is I'm probably just best off sticking to what I know, and using my little bit of extra brain power for putting on a good cover act, or learn more B.S. deviations.
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