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Advantage Slots
21Blackjack
Expert

Ace Sequencing

Complete Advantage Play Strategy Guide

21
21

Blackjack

Quick Stats

Expected Edge

2-5%

Bankroll Required

High ($5,000-15,000)

Time to Learn

6-12 months

Additional Metrics

edge When Successful
2-5%
memory Required
Extreme
modern Feasibility
Very low

Overview

Memorizing cards around aces in discards, then predicting when aces will appear after shuffle. Powerful technique that doesn't look like counting.

Strategy

Note cards surrounding aces in discard tray. After shuffle, track when those key cards appear to predict upcoming aces. Bet big when ace is next. Requires excellent memory and knowledge of shuffle procedures.

What to Look For

  • Simple shuffles where card positions are predictable
  • Hand-shuffled games (not machines)
  • Dealers with consistent shuffle procedures
  • Games with visible discard trays
  • Deep penetration (more aces in play)

Risks & Considerations

  • Requires near-photographic memory
  • Easy to make tracking errors
  • Shuffle variations destroy sequence
  • Large bet after shuffle can be suspicious
  • Very limited opportunities in modern casinos

Pro Tip

Always start with proper bankroll management. Even with an edge, variance can be brutal. Never risk more than 1-2% of your total bankroll on a single session, and ensure you have at least 20-30 buy-ins for your chosen stakes.

Basic Strategy Chart

4-6 Decks, S17, DAS, Late Surrender

Legend
HHit
SStand
DDouble (Hit if not allowed)
DSDouble (Stand if not allowed)
PSplit
RhSurrender (Hit if not allowed)
RsSurrender (Stand if not allowed)
Hard Total2345678910A
9
H
D
D
D
D
H
H
H
H
H
10
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
H
H
11
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
12
H
H
S
S
S
H
H
H
H
H
13
S
S
S
S
S
H
H
H
H
H
14
S
S
S
S
S
H
H
H
H
H
15
S
S
S
S
S
H
H
H
Rh
Rh
16
S
S
S
S
S
H
H
Rh
Rh
Rh
5-8
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
17+
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S

Pro Tips

  • • Always split Aces and 8s
  • • Never split 5s or 10s
  • • Double down on 11 against everything except Ace
  • • Stand on 17 or higher (except soft 17)
  • • Never take insurance (unless counting cards at TC +3)

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