Consider your non-basic strategy options when they present themselves. The use of these options is almost exclusive to the special circumstances presented by tournament play. Depending on the situation, they may be your only way to survive the round. Learn to recognize when they are your best if not only option.
Splits
Would you consider splitting tens versus a dealers five or six up card in most situations? Probably not, but if you're behind during a round this is a chance to make a move up. Take the opportunity to get more chips on the table and split them.
EXAMPLE - Hand 21 @25,000 max/500 min
You 30,000 chips - bets 5,000 / dealt K+K
Seat 2 41,500 chips - bets 2,000
Seat 3 32,000 chips - bets 1,500
Seat 4 36,000 chips - bets 2,500 (Button)
Seat 5 37,000 chips - bets 2,000
Dealer 6/?
This example is a set up to split the K/K and get another 5,000 chips in action. Win both hands and you jump to 40,000 chips and catch up. If you lose, you'll still have 20,000 chips and be within a one bet all in striking distance of the leaders.
Double Down
A bit less obvious is doubling down with a made hand. A very unorthodox play and totally contrary to basic strategy but sometimes your only option.
EXAMPLE - Hand 30 @ 100,000 max/1,000 min
You 175,000 chips - bets 100,000 - draws K+7 / must double down
Seat 2 175,500 chips - bets 100,000 - draws Q+7 / stands (Button)
Dealer shows 5/?
You must double for less for at least 1,000 chips and take a card. It's you only chance to win because if you stand you will definitely lose the round. In fact, you must do the same for any total
of 17 or under.
The Swing
This non-basic strategy play does not require splitting or doubling down but can be just as effective. It is known as playing for the swing and involves you targeting a specific hand total. The desired specific hand total is at least 2 points higher than the opponents total. This allows for the possibility of the opponent losing and you winning if the dealer makes a hand between your totals.
EXAMPLE - Hand 25 @ 25,000 max/500 min
You 55,000 chips - bets 25,000 - draws 4+3/Q/hit to target 19,20,21
Seat 2 91,000 chips - bets 19,500 - draws J+8/stands (Button)
Dealer shows 5/?
Your opponent has correctly bet enough to cover you even if you manage to double up via a split or double down. He has made a bet such that he wins the round if you both win or both lose the hand. Notice that you can win the round with a win coupled with an opponents loss. This is the swing opportunity you are aiming for.
Suppose your opponent draws a hard 18 and stands. You draw a total of hard 17. Doubling at this point is useless as your best card would be an Ace giving you the same result as your opponent. Your therefore hit and draw a Q for a hard total of 17. You must now continue to hit targeting a total of 19, 20, or 21. You win and your opponent loses if the dealer makes a hand in between your totals. This is the swing and although rare, represents your only chance to win.
November 28, 2008
November 26, 2008
9) Strategy: Going All In
Going All In
In the previous post we discussed various playing strategies when you are behind in chip count. Let's now take a look at the ultimate aggressive bet, the all in move. Regardless of your button position, if things are still not going well and you are falling farther behind, consider the all in bet. Going all in and winning can resuscitate your tournament life and put pressure on your opponents. Here's a rule of thumb to consider when contemplating an all in bet. If making a large bet and losing it would leave your stack crippled, go all in instead.
EXAMPLE - Hand 7 @ 25,000 max/1,000 min
You 16,000 chips (Button)
Seat 2 24,500 chips
Seat 3 31,000 chips
Seat 4 24,000 chips
Seat 5 26,000 chips
Seat 6 36,000 chips
Seat 7 29,000 chips
In this example notice that betting 5,000 chips and losing would leave you with 11,000 chips and possibly mathematically eliminated (shut out) for the EH hand 8. Even winning the bet and moving up to 21,000 chips could still leave you in last place. The better action is to go all in and have a shot at joining the leaders with 32,000 chips. With the EH next you're now probably not in last place and have more betting options at your disposal.
The Must Win Situation
You might find yourself in a position during an EH where you are trailing slightly and must win your wager in order to advance. This situation can arise when open betting by opponents makes it clear that this is your status. Notice in the example below that if Seats 3 or 5 either win or lose their bets you must still win a bet to pass them.
EXAMPLE - Hand 16 @ 25,000 max/500 min
You 18,000 chips
Seat 2 24,500 chips - Secret Bet (Button)
Seat 3 25,000 chips - bets 4,000
Seat 4 21,000 chips - Secret Bet
Seat 5 23,000 chips - bets 2,000
This is definitely and all in bet situation even though you just need a small amount to pass the EH. Again, since you must win the hand to survive going all in is preferable to betting just enough to get by. Make it worth your while by building a competitive stack with a win.
When behind in chips, reality dictates that you should always consider the all in option. Rarely will you get such good cards that you are never in danger of elimination. You will have to take a stand and win one or more key hands to survive and succeed. One final thought.....if you're behind and unsure of what to do, it's rarely a mistake to go all in.
In the previous post we discussed various playing strategies when you are behind in chip count. Let's now take a look at the ultimate aggressive bet, the all in move. Regardless of your button position, if things are still not going well and you are falling farther behind, consider the all in bet. Going all in and winning can resuscitate your tournament life and put pressure on your opponents. Here's a rule of thumb to consider when contemplating an all in bet. If making a large bet and losing it would leave your stack crippled, go all in instead.
EXAMPLE - Hand 7 @ 25,000 max/1,000 min
You 16,000 chips (Button)
Seat 2 24,500 chips
Seat 3 31,000 chips
Seat 4 24,000 chips
Seat 5 26,000 chips
Seat 6 36,000 chips
Seat 7 29,000 chips
In this example notice that betting 5,000 chips and losing would leave you with 11,000 chips and possibly mathematically eliminated (shut out) for the EH hand 8. Even winning the bet and moving up to 21,000 chips could still leave you in last place. The better action is to go all in and have a shot at joining the leaders with 32,000 chips. With the EH next you're now probably not in last place and have more betting options at your disposal.
The Must Win Situation
You might find yourself in a position during an EH where you are trailing slightly and must win your wager in order to advance. This situation can arise when open betting by opponents makes it clear that this is your status. Notice in the example below that if Seats 3 or 5 either win or lose their bets you must still win a bet to pass them.
EXAMPLE - Hand 16 @ 25,000 max/500 min
You 18,000 chips
Seat 2 24,500 chips - Secret Bet (Button)
Seat 3 25,000 chips - bets 4,000
Seat 4 21,000 chips - Secret Bet
Seat 5 23,000 chips - bets 2,000
This is definitely and all in bet situation even though you just need a small amount to pass the EH. Again, since you must win the hand to survive going all in is preferable to betting just enough to get by. Make it worth your while by building a competitive stack with a win.
When behind in chips, reality dictates that you should always consider the all in option. Rarely will you get such good cards that you are never in danger of elimination. You will have to take a stand and win one or more key hands to survive and succeed. One final thought.....if you're behind and unsure of what to do, it's rarely a mistake to go all in.
November 25, 2008
8) Strategy: Playing While Behind
Playing From The Back Of The Pack
Suppose the round is not going well for you. The dealer is making hands, you're losing, and your opponents are winning. To top it all off there's an EH looming shortly. What can you do about it? Difficult times require drastic measures. Playing it safe or conservative is no longer an option. Here are some strategies for getting back into the hunt after falling behind.Catch Up Bets
Catch up bets are designed to get you back into the front of the pack and out of the last places. There are several betting options to get this done. Add them to your arsenal and make your move. You can bet the opposite of the leaders, make a larger bet using the double shot, or going all in. Let's take a look at them one at a time.
Opposition Bets
Choosing to bet opposite of other players is known as opposition betting. You might see that the leaders are betting big so you bet small and vice versa. This makes a swing possible that allows you to catch up. This tactic is best used when several hand remain before and EH. If it doesn't work you need those extra hands to use a more proactive approach. Betting the same as the leaders would be ineffective since most win/loss results are shared between players.
EXAMPLE - Hand 10 @ 25,000 max/500 min
You 20,000 chips - bets 500
Seat 2 24,500 chips - bets 5,000 (Button)
Seat 3 25,000 chips - bets 6,000
Seat 4 21,000 chips - bets 1,000
Seat 5 23,000 chips - bets 2,000
Here you have bet the minimum 500 chips as on opposition bet and are taking the low. Notice that you catch up if a) Seats 2 and/or 3 lose and you win or b) you all lose. Even if you all win your bets you still have enough chips to effectively use another catch up strategy.
EXAMPLE - Hand 17 @ 100,000 max/1,000 min
You 157,000 chips - bets 38,000
Seat 2 172,000 chips - bets 11,000 (Button)
Seat 3 177,000 chips - bets 6,000
Seat 4 182,000 chips - bets 6,000
You've chosen to take the high by making a 38,000 chip bet after seeing the other players make small bets. With a win your new chip total wold be 195,000 chips. Notice you could have bet 32,000 chips so that with a win by both you and the leader gives your the lead at 189,000 chips versus 188,000. By adding just 6,000 chips and betting 38,000 it provides some cushion against a double down win by the leader which would bring their stack to 194,000. Look for these opportunities where a small addition to your bet covers more outcomes favorably.
Take A Double Shot
Betting more is the most obvious way to catch up. Use this double shot technique to accomplish that goal. As a general rule it is better to attempt to catch up with one larger bet rather than making a series of cautious smaller bets. You got into this predicament by losing hands. What makes you think you'll win three or four hand in a row to catch up? It's best to make this bet with position so you can size it for maximum effectiveness. Nothing is worse that winning a catch up bet only to find it was the wrong size for the desired effect.
EXAMPLE - Hand 21 @ 100,000 max/1,000 min
You 110,000 chips - bets 35,000 (Button)
Seat 2 97,000 chips
Seat 3 130,000 chips
Seat 4 141, 000 chips
Seat 5 155,000 chips
With the first shot you can bet 35,000 chips and with a win catch up to the pack with 145,000 chips. Now you are out of desperation mode and can re-assess your situation. Be wary of doubling or splitting here unless the situation is ideal. Ideal might be a 10 or 11 versus a dealer 6 card showing plus your opponents showing stiffs. Losing a double down or split bets now would cripple your stack leaving you with only 40,000 chips. This amount would be virtually useless for the next hand.
If you happen to lose this bet you can take you second shot of the double shot on the next hand. Now you'd go all in for the remaining 75,000 chips to get back into the pack.
EXAMPLE - Hand 22 @ 100,000 max/1,000 min
You 75,000 chips - bets 75,000 all in
Seat 2 107,000 chips - (Button)
Seat 3 140,000 chips
Seat 4 137,000 chips
Seat 5 160,000 chips
Now you're shooting for the middle of of the pack. A win brings you up to 150,000 chips and back in contention. Taking this double shot is a better strategy than a series of 10,000 or 20,000 chip bets to catch up.
Next post we'll look at the implications of the ultimate catch up move, the all in bet.
November 24, 2008
7) Strategy: Playing With The Lead
Let's assume that things are going well and you are in the lead pack. Playing from the front is all about staying there and maintaining good chip position for the next EH. You have several options available to you by virtue of your good play and good fortune.
On The Button, Bet Enough To Keep The Lead
You may find yourself with the lead and the button or close to it. This is a classic good news and bad news situation since you're out of position. In this case you should make use of your chip lead margin. The bad news is that many of your opponents will bet enough to take over the lead, as they should. The good news is you can anticipate this and bet the margin of your lead or slightly more.
EXAMPLE - Hand 18 @ 100,000 max/1,000 min
You 175,000 chips - bets 11,000 (Button)
Seat 2 130,000 chips - bets 25,000
Seat 3 125,000 chips - bets 15,000
Seat 4 169,000 chips - bets 20,000
Seat 5 166,000 chips - bets 1,000
By betting your lead or slightly more it forces opponents make specific choices. Seat 4 has opted to take the high against you. Seat 5 has taken the low against both you and Seat 4.
Correlate With Your Nearest Opponent
When leading, watch the stack of the opponent directly behind you in chip status. Consider betting the same as this opponent. This is known as a correlation bet and is a very powerful tool to keep a lead over another player. You will generally share the same result and maintain your relative chip position.
EXAMPLE - Hand 17 @ 100,000 max/1,000 min
You 175,000 chips - bets 11,000
Seat 2 130,000 chips - bets 30,000
Seat 3 125,000 chips - bets 25,000 (Button)
Seat 4 165,000 chips - bets 11,000
Seat 5 140,000 chips - bets 15,000
Seat 4 is your closest competitor and has reasonably bet 11,000 chips to take the lead from you. Go ahead and correlate with the 11,000 chip bet to maintain the lead if you both win or both lose.
Don't Always Double or Split
With the lead, consider passing up all but the strongest double or split opportunities. Factor your bet size, your targeted opponents bet size, and the results you've seen into this decision. Getting more chips on the table is not always to your advantage especially if losing the extra chips will significantly hurt your chip standing.
EXAMPLE - Hand 17 @ 100,000 max/1,000 min
You 175,000 chips - bets 11,000 (dealt 8/8)
Seat 2 130,000 chips - bets 30,000
Seat 3 125,000 chips - bets 25,000 (Button)
Seat 4 165,000 chips - bets 11,000
Seat 5 140,000 chips - bets 15,000
Dealer Hand = 6/?
Suppose you have been dealt 8/8 and decide to split your 11,000 chip let to 22,000 chips. A loss could drop you to 153,000 chips and into fourth place or worse. Remember that maintaining a top two chip status is preferable to slipping into a catch up mode. Proximity to an EH also dictates the more conservative approach.
The Shutout Bet
The shutout bet is one of the most powerful plays you can make in EBJ. It happens before an EH and is somewhat of a rare opportunity. It is a bet sized so if you win it renders the last place competitor mathematically unable to catch you on the EH.
EXAMPLE - Hand 15 @ 25,000 max/500 min
You 54,500 chips - bets 3,500
Seat 2 29,000 chips
Seat 3 34,500 chips
Seat 4 25,500 chips
Seat 5 10,000 chips - bets 10,000 (Button)
If Seat 5 wins this hand (assuming not blackjack) it will have 20,000 chips for the hand 16 EH. Now you'll be guaranteed to advance by betting an amount that even if you lose, would cover an opponents maximum chip win on the hand 16 EH. In this case the opponents maximum chip potential after the EH (with a blackjack) would be 50,000 chips. therefore a 3,500 chip maximum bet guarantees you to advance. If you lose and drop to 51,000 chips you can bet the minimum 500 chips on the EH and be assured of advancing. Always be on the lookout for a shutout opportunity when a large disparity exists between your stack and the last place stack.
Also note that you can start to set this situation up two hands before an EH.
One last comment on this example. Note that if Opponent 4 loses hand 15 they are eliminated. Keep in mind that now another player will also be eliminated on the hand 16 EH. You are still in good shape with a probable lead going in to the EH. Recount the new lowest stack and see if another lockout is possible.
On The Button, Bet Enough To Keep The Lead
You may find yourself with the lead and the button or close to it. This is a classic good news and bad news situation since you're out of position. In this case you should make use of your chip lead margin. The bad news is that many of your opponents will bet enough to take over the lead, as they should. The good news is you can anticipate this and bet the margin of your lead or slightly more.
EXAMPLE - Hand 18 @ 100,000 max/1,000 min
You 175,000 chips - bets 11,000 (Button)
Seat 2 130,000 chips - bets 25,000
Seat 3 125,000 chips - bets 15,000
Seat 4 169,000 chips - bets 20,000
Seat 5 166,000 chips - bets 1,000
By betting your lead or slightly more it forces opponents make specific choices. Seat 4 has opted to take the high against you. Seat 5 has taken the low against both you and Seat 4.
Correlate With Your Nearest Opponent
When leading, watch the stack of the opponent directly behind you in chip status. Consider betting the same as this opponent. This is known as a correlation bet and is a very powerful tool to keep a lead over another player. You will generally share the same result and maintain your relative chip position.
EXAMPLE - Hand 17 @ 100,000 max/1,000 min
You 175,000 chips - bets 11,000
Seat 2 130,000 chips - bets 30,000
Seat 3 125,000 chips - bets 25,000 (Button)
Seat 4 165,000 chips - bets 11,000
Seat 5 140,000 chips - bets 15,000
Seat 4 is your closest competitor and has reasonably bet 11,000 chips to take the lead from you. Go ahead and correlate with the 11,000 chip bet to maintain the lead if you both win or both lose.
Don't Always Double or Split
With the lead, consider passing up all but the strongest double or split opportunities. Factor your bet size, your targeted opponents bet size, and the results you've seen into this decision. Getting more chips on the table is not always to your advantage especially if losing the extra chips will significantly hurt your chip standing.
EXAMPLE - Hand 17 @ 100,000 max/1,000 min
You 175,000 chips - bets 11,000 (dealt 8/8)
Seat 2 130,000 chips - bets 30,000
Seat 3 125,000 chips - bets 25,000 (Button)
Seat 4 165,000 chips - bets 11,000
Seat 5 140,000 chips - bets 15,000
Dealer Hand = 6/?
Suppose you have been dealt 8/8 and decide to split your 11,000 chip let to 22,000 chips. A loss could drop you to 153,000 chips and into fourth place or worse. Remember that maintaining a top two chip status is preferable to slipping into a catch up mode. Proximity to an EH also dictates the more conservative approach.
The Shutout Bet
The shutout bet is one of the most powerful plays you can make in EBJ. It happens before an EH and is somewhat of a rare opportunity. It is a bet sized so if you win it renders the last place competitor mathematically unable to catch you on the EH.
EXAMPLE - Hand 15 @ 25,000 max/500 min
You 54,500 chips - bets 3,500
Seat 2 29,000 chips
Seat 3 34,500 chips
Seat 4 25,500 chips
Seat 5 10,000 chips - bets 10,000 (Button)
If Seat 5 wins this hand (assuming not blackjack) it will have 20,000 chips for the hand 16 EH. Now you'll be guaranteed to advance by betting an amount that even if you lose, would cover an opponents maximum chip win on the hand 16 EH. In this case the opponents maximum chip potential after the EH (with a blackjack) would be 50,000 chips. therefore a 3,500 chip maximum bet guarantees you to advance. If you lose and drop to 51,000 chips you can bet the minimum 500 chips on the EH and be assured of advancing. Always be on the lookout for a shutout opportunity when a large disparity exists between your stack and the last place stack.
Also note that you can start to set this situation up two hands before an EH.
One last comment on this example. Note that if Opponent 4 loses hand 15 they are eliminated. Keep in mind that now another player will also be eliminated on the hand 16 EH. You are still in good shape with a probable lead going in to the EH. Recount the new lowest stack and see if another lockout is possible.
November 23, 2008
6) Strategy: Taking The HIgh / Taking The Low
Throughout this Blog specific examples will be given to illustrate key strategic and tactical concepts. Look at these examples as representative of the message but not absolutes. There are an infinite number of situations that can occur during an EBJ tournament. The reader should try to understand the principle each example presents and look to apply it in future situations.
Each example will present a hand that takes place in either a preliminary round or the final table. The betting limits designate the table type. The reader will be placed in Seat 1 and the button assigned to various seat positions. In all examples the action starts with the button seat and proceeds to the next highest seat number.
Taking the High/Taking The Low
Two of the most basic strategies in tournament blackjack are taking the high or taking the low. These two simple strategic concepts form the foundation of most advanced betting actions. As strategies they benefit from the concept of the table sharing similar results versus the dealer. Having good position and or the lead makes using these techniques easier. Although easy to understand, applying their nuances will separate winners from losers.
Taking The High
Taking the high is a betting strategy that gives you the lead if most if not all players win their bets. You simply calculate what bet size is needed to take the lead if all players win their bets. Realize that during an EH or heads up play you must account for other outcomes. In these situations consider factoring in the possibility of an opponent doubling or making a blackjack prior to selecting your bet. Because of the finality of being eliminated, an appropriate buffer should be built into your wager if your bank allows it.
EXAMPLE - Hand 11 @ 25,000 max/500 min
You 24,500 chips - bets 5,000
Seat 2 19,000 chips - bets 5,000 (Button)
Seat 3 19,500 chips - bets 3,500
Seat 4 25,000 chips - bets 3,000
Seat 5 22,000 chips - bets 7,000
Seat 5 has decided to take the high and bets 7,000 chips after seeing the bets made by the first three players to act. You now have the option to retake the high since your are last to act. A bet of 5,000 chips will accomplish that.
Taking The Low
Taking the low is a betting strategy that gives you the lead if most if not all players lose their bets. You simply wager an amount that leaves you with largest remaining stack if the dealer beats everyone. In this scenario be cautious about splitting or doubling unless the situation is favorable. A loss could throw your calculations off and drop you in the standings.
EXAMPLE - Hand 11 @ 25,000 max/500 min
You 24,500 chips - bets 500
Seat 2 19,000 chips - bets 5,000 (Button)
Seat 3 19,500 chips - bets 3,500
Seat 4 25,000 chips - bets 3,000
Seat 5 22,000 chips - bets 7,000
Seat 5 has decided to take the high and bets 7,000 after seeing the bets made by the first three players to act. You now have the option to take the low by betting 500. If the dealer beats the table you take the chip lead.
Each example will present a hand that takes place in either a preliminary round or the final table. The betting limits designate the table type. The reader will be placed in Seat 1 and the button assigned to various seat positions. In all examples the action starts with the button seat and proceeds to the next highest seat number.
Taking the High/Taking The Low
Two of the most basic strategies in tournament blackjack are taking the high or taking the low. These two simple strategic concepts form the foundation of most advanced betting actions. As strategies they benefit from the concept of the table sharing similar results versus the dealer. Having good position and or the lead makes using these techniques easier. Although easy to understand, applying their nuances will separate winners from losers.
Taking The High
Taking the high is a betting strategy that gives you the lead if most if not all players win their bets. You simply calculate what bet size is needed to take the lead if all players win their bets. Realize that during an EH or heads up play you must account for other outcomes. In these situations consider factoring in the possibility of an opponent doubling or making a blackjack prior to selecting your bet. Because of the finality of being eliminated, an appropriate buffer should be built into your wager if your bank allows it.
EXAMPLE - Hand 11 @ 25,000 max/500 min
You 24,500 chips - bets 5,000
Seat 2 19,000 chips - bets 5,000 (Button)
Seat 3 19,500 chips - bets 3,500
Seat 4 25,000 chips - bets 3,000
Seat 5 22,000 chips - bets 7,000
Seat 5 has decided to take the high and bets 7,000 chips after seeing the bets made by the first three players to act. You now have the option to retake the high since your are last to act. A bet of 5,000 chips will accomplish that.
Taking The Low
Taking the low is a betting strategy that gives you the lead if most if not all players lose their bets. You simply wager an amount that leaves you with largest remaining stack if the dealer beats everyone. In this scenario be cautious about splitting or doubling unless the situation is favorable. A loss could throw your calculations off and drop you in the standings.
EXAMPLE - Hand 11 @ 25,000 max/500 min
You 24,500 chips - bets 500
Seat 2 19,000 chips - bets 5,000 (Button)
Seat 3 19,500 chips - bets 3,500
Seat 4 25,000 chips - bets 3,000
Seat 5 22,000 chips - bets 7,000
Seat 5 has decided to take the high and bets 7,000 after seeing the bets made by the first three players to act. You now have the option to take the low by betting 500. If the dealer beats the table you take the chip lead.
November 22, 2008
5) Position
Your Table Position
A key factor to consider is at the start of a round is your table position for the next EH. Position is important because you see what other players have bet before you. It is always advantageous to bet last or close to it since you have more information to base your bet on.
Always calculate the future position of the button for the next EH. Do this by simply counting counting button player positions sequentially. Note your eventual position relative to the button for these critical hands. Again, remember to recalculate the EH button position if player is eliminated as it will have changed.
At a seven player table having the button on the first hand means you'll also have it for the EH 8 if no one is eliminated. This is the worst possible position to have. The seat to the right of the button on hand 1 is the best possible as you will act last on the EH if no one is eliminated prior. The seats between the first and last to bet are progressively more advantageous. We'll see that betting strategies can vary according to your position.
Your Opponents Betting Position
You should keep an eye on all bets and especially bets made by the players to your right. You always act after these players except when you have the button. You have position on them. It's easier to jockey for chip position against them since you see their wagers before you act. You have the advantage of position so make use of it. Select your bet size to keep the pressure on them.
Players to your left will act after you except for then they have the button. They have position on you. You have little control over stack sizing with these players. To make a move on them it's best to wait until the button has just passed you. Acting after them may be your only opportunity to select a bet size that enables you to pass them.
The option to split pairs and double down can be an equalizer for bad position. These options give you a chance to change your wager and perhaps gain an advantage over an opponent with better position. Doubling or splitting is not automatic and should be evaluated according to the situation. Consider these options when they present themselves in terms of tournament strategy.
Stay Out of Last Place
Keep track of the player with the lowest chip amount. You don't want to be in the last two chip positions during an EH. Make bets sufficient to stay out of the last places and preferably in the top two chip positions. Rather than taking large risks, make bets that will give you a small lead. Losing these scaled bets will not have the same impact as losing a large bet trying to take a large lead. Be watchful for a big bet from trailing players and weigh its potential impact on your standing. If there are still several hands before the EH you may wait to see the result of their gamble before responding if needed. If not, consider making a bet that will avoid last place and place you near the top.
Watch For Betting Patterns
Sometimes you can make observations about an opponents bet size tendency. Make mental note of this betting pattern range as it could help you to anticipate their bet when you are out of position. Consider making wagers that are the opposite of the general trend of your opponents. For instance, if some players are consistently making large aggressive bets consider making small bets. This way you give them a chance to go broke. On the other hand, if players are betting small you may want to make larger bets to take the lead and put pressure on them. Adjusting your bet according to position and the trend at the table is a viable short term strategy.
A key factor to consider is at the start of a round is your table position for the next EH. Position is important because you see what other players have bet before you. It is always advantageous to bet last or close to it since you have more information to base your bet on.
Always calculate the future position of the button for the next EH. Do this by simply counting counting button player positions sequentially. Note your eventual position relative to the button for these critical hands. Again, remember to recalculate the EH button position if player is eliminated as it will have changed.
At a seven player table having the button on the first hand means you'll also have it for the EH 8 if no one is eliminated. This is the worst possible position to have. The seat to the right of the button on hand 1 is the best possible as you will act last on the EH if no one is eliminated prior. The seats between the first and last to bet are progressively more advantageous. We'll see that betting strategies can vary according to your position.
Your Opponents Betting Position
You should keep an eye on all bets and especially bets made by the players to your right. You always act after these players except when you have the button. You have position on them. It's easier to jockey for chip position against them since you see their wagers before you act. You have the advantage of position so make use of it. Select your bet size to keep the pressure on them.
Players to your left will act after you except for then they have the button. They have position on you. You have little control over stack sizing with these players. To make a move on them it's best to wait until the button has just passed you. Acting after them may be your only opportunity to select a bet size that enables you to pass them.
The option to split pairs and double down can be an equalizer for bad position. These options give you a chance to change your wager and perhaps gain an advantage over an opponent with better position. Doubling or splitting is not automatic and should be evaluated according to the situation. Consider these options when they present themselves in terms of tournament strategy.
Stay Out of Last Place
Keep track of the player with the lowest chip amount. You don't want to be in the last two chip positions during an EH. Make bets sufficient to stay out of the last places and preferably in the top two chip positions. Rather than taking large risks, make bets that will give you a small lead. Losing these scaled bets will not have the same impact as losing a large bet trying to take a large lead. Be watchful for a big bet from trailing players and weigh its potential impact on your standing. If there are still several hands before the EH you may wait to see the result of their gamble before responding if needed. If not, consider making a bet that will avoid last place and place you near the top.
Watch For Betting Patterns
Sometimes you can make observations about an opponents bet size tendency. Make mental note of this betting pattern range as it could help you to anticipate their bet when you are out of position. Consider making wagers that are the opposite of the general trend of your opponents. For instance, if some players are consistently making large aggressive bets consider making small bets. This way you give them a chance to go broke. On the other hand, if players are betting small you may want to make larger bets to take the lead and put pressure on them. Adjusting your bet according to position and the trend at the table is a viable short term strategy.
November 21, 2008
4) Playing A Round
Anatomy of a Round
Keep in mind that during a round one need not have the most chips after EH 8, 16, and 25..... just not the least. Not all rounds will last the full 30 hands before the requisite number of player eliminations. Base your initial strategy on a full 30 hand round. If circumstances change during the round make adjustments. For example, if there are 3 players left at the start of hand 16 you know that one will be eliminated. Now you know that hand 25 could be the final hand. Every hand is important in this accelerated format. You'll see that selective aggression will be a key to surviving and winning.
Simple Steps to Follow During the Play of a Hand
As we delve deeper into the strategies and tactics of EBJ think of these simple steps as a way to organize your thoughts during the play of a hand. You'll find that the pace of play is quite rapid especially in the live version of the game. Quick decision making skills are required. Since each hand is important to your success or failure, the pressure is always on. You will develop your own methods over time but for now these steps can be a useful anchor.
1) After the cards are dealt use basic strategy to decide on an initial action for your hand. This is subject to change depending on the the outcomes of other players hands. Be ready to act when it's your turn to play.
2) Observe the play and actions of your opponents. Pay attention to the results of their double, split, and surrender decisions and new stack sizes. Consider the implications of their results for the play of your hand. Should your actions now reflect a new tournament strategy?
3) Upon completion of all hands, count the stack sizes and get a general feel for where you are in the pack. Pay special attention to the smallest stacks and note the margin of the leaders lead.
4) If a competitor was eliminated recalculate the button position for the next EH as this could affect your wager strategy.
5) Select your next wager amount based on your button position, chip status, and goal for the next hand.
Following the completion of a hand you'll have at least 25 seconds to act if you're the button and progressively more if you act later. Use this time by always thinking about your situation. There is no down time during a round, think about your next playing or betting action at all times.
Same Table, Same Dealer,............Similar Results
Keep in mind that all players at the table are playing against the same dealer hand. This means that much of the time the players will share a similar win or loss result. For example, if dealer gets a blackjack probably all players will lose their bets. If the dealer busts, all players that didn't bust win. Some hands will produce a mixed result such as when the dealer makes a total of 19. There will be times when you root for the dealer to make a specific hand total because you stand to gain chip position.
Keep in mind that during a round one need not have the most chips after EH 8, 16, and 25..... just not the least. Not all rounds will last the full 30 hands before the requisite number of player eliminations. Base your initial strategy on a full 30 hand round. If circumstances change during the round make adjustments. For example, if there are 3 players left at the start of hand 16 you know that one will be eliminated. Now you know that hand 25 could be the final hand. Every hand is important in this accelerated format. You'll see that selective aggression will be a key to surviving and winning.
Simple Steps to Follow During the Play of a Hand
As we delve deeper into the strategies and tactics of EBJ think of these simple steps as a way to organize your thoughts during the play of a hand. You'll find that the pace of play is quite rapid especially in the live version of the game. Quick decision making skills are required. Since each hand is important to your success or failure, the pressure is always on. You will develop your own methods over time but for now these steps can be a useful anchor.
1) After the cards are dealt use basic strategy to decide on an initial action for your hand. This is subject to change depending on the the outcomes of other players hands. Be ready to act when it's your turn to play.
2) Observe the play and actions of your opponents. Pay attention to the results of their double, split, and surrender decisions and new stack sizes. Consider the implications of their results for the play of your hand. Should your actions now reflect a new tournament strategy?
3) Upon completion of all hands, count the stack sizes and get a general feel for where you are in the pack. Pay special attention to the smallest stacks and note the margin of the leaders lead.
4) If a competitor was eliminated recalculate the button position for the next EH as this could affect your wager strategy.
5) Select your next wager amount based on your button position, chip status, and goal for the next hand.
Following the completion of a hand you'll have at least 25 seconds to act if you're the button and progressively more if you act later. Use this time by always thinking about your situation. There is no down time during a round, think about your next playing or betting action at all times.
Same Table, Same Dealer,............Similar Results
Keep in mind that all players at the table are playing against the same dealer hand. This means that much of the time the players will share a similar win or loss result. For example, if dealer gets a blackjack probably all players will lose their bets. If the dealer busts, all players that didn't bust win. Some hands will produce a mixed result such as when the dealer makes a total of 19. There will be times when you root for the dealer to make a specific hand total because you stand to gain chip position.
November 20, 2008
3) Strategies and Elements of Play
There are two distinct types of strategies you will use while playing an EBJ tournament. They are Tournament Strategy and Game Strategy. Let's take a look at both of them and discuss how to use them successfully.
Tournament Strategy.....your bet size selection is the key
The keys to success in Elimination Blackjack lie in using tournament strategy to make optimum bet sizes and then playing ones hand correctly. The focus of tournament strategy is on bet size management. You cannot control the cards you get from the dealer or the outcomes they produce. However, knowing how much to bet and your options during the play of the hand allows you to exert the maximum control over your tournament results. The tournament player should have a specific goal for each bet they make. Depending on the circumstances, one must defend or attack on every hand. Your bet size is your weapon.
Game Strategy.....basic strategy is best
Of secondary importance is knowledge of the game of blackjack itself known as game strategy. The best game strategy to use are the rules for hitting, standing, and doubling down known as basic strategy. If you are not familiar with basic strategy, take the time to memorize the simple basics until it becomes second nature to you. This will free your mind to think about the appropriate tournament strategy to use during a round. Basic strategy rules will apply for the vast majority of EBJ play except for the occasions where tournament strategy calls for deviations from basic strategy.
Special Circumstances
Tournament blackjack can present special circumstances that require deviations from basic strategy. Being able to recognize these special tournament strategy situations is an important skill. Knowing how to exploit these situations is an advantage. There will be times when a player must act contrary to basic strategy due to circumstances unique to tournament strategy. In tournaments your objective is to survive the round, not maximize your long term profits. We'll take a look at some examples of special circumstances in later posts.
Card Counting
Card counting is not a significant factor in EBJ. Correct tournament strategy will dominate your decisions rather that beating the dealer. Remember that you're competing against the other players not the dealer. Even an expert card counter using a Hi-Lo system will find unfavorable counts over 75% of the time against a 6 deck shoe. Given the limited amount of hands dealt during a round it would be unusual to have enough shoe penetration to generate a meaningful positive count.
Tournament Strategy.....your bet size selection is the key
The keys to success in Elimination Blackjack lie in using tournament strategy to make optimum bet sizes and then playing ones hand correctly. The focus of tournament strategy is on bet size management. You cannot control the cards you get from the dealer or the outcomes they produce. However, knowing how much to bet and your options during the play of the hand allows you to exert the maximum control over your tournament results. The tournament player should have a specific goal for each bet they make. Depending on the circumstances, one must defend or attack on every hand. Your bet size is your weapon.
Game Strategy.....basic strategy is best
Of secondary importance is knowledge of the game of blackjack itself known as game strategy. The best game strategy to use are the rules for hitting, standing, and doubling down known as basic strategy. If you are not familiar with basic strategy, take the time to memorize the simple basics until it becomes second nature to you. This will free your mind to think about the appropriate tournament strategy to use during a round. Basic strategy rules will apply for the vast majority of EBJ play except for the occasions where tournament strategy calls for deviations from basic strategy.
Special Circumstances
Tournament blackjack can present special circumstances that require deviations from basic strategy. Being able to recognize these special tournament strategy situations is an important skill. Knowing how to exploit these situations is an advantage. There will be times when a player must act contrary to basic strategy due to circumstances unique to tournament strategy. In tournaments your objective is to survive the round, not maximize your long term profits. We'll take a look at some examples of special circumstances in later posts.
Card Counting
Card counting is not a significant factor in EBJ. Correct tournament strategy will dominate your decisions rather that beating the dealer. Remember that you're competing against the other players not the dealer. Even an expert card counter using a Hi-Lo system will find unfavorable counts over 75% of the time against a 6 deck shoe. Given the limited amount of hands dealt during a round it would be unusual to have enough shoe penetration to generate a meaningful positive count.
November 19, 2008
2) Basic Game Rules and Procedures
If you're already familiar with the basic rules and procedures of the game feel free to skip ahead to future posts. The rules for this new tournament format are continuing to evolve. The basics we'll cover here are fairly standard. Always obtain a copy of the specific rules governing any tournament you enter. Rules are always available in printed form for live tourneys and are posted on the website for internet play.
Here is a summary of the key elements of an EBJ tournament;
Tournament Rounds
EBJ tournaments consist of one or more rounds. The number of rounds in a tournament depends on the number of entrants. One round consists of a maximum of 30 blackjack hands. There are usually 6 or 7 players at each table for a round.
Players start with 25,000 chips and must bet between 500 chips minimum and 25,000 chips maximum on each hand. The player or players with the most chips at the end of the round advance to the next round. Most rounds advance 2 or 3 players to the next round. Always be sure to know how many players will advance in the round you're playing.
Surviving players are then assigned to new tables for the next round where all players again start with 25,000 chips. This will continue until the final 6 or 7 players remain. The tournament then culminates with a final table. Players at the final table start with 100,000 chips and must bet between 1,000 chips minimum and 100,000 chips maximum on each hand.
Elimination Hands
During a round, hands number 8, 16, 25, and 30 are designated as Elimination Hands (EH). After each of these EH the player with the least amount of chips is eliminated from the tournament. Players that lose all their chips between EH are also eliminated. In actual practice a round may or may not last the full 30 hands before the required number of player eliminations have occurred.
The Button
At the start of a round the button is assigned to one of the players. That player must bet first and act first on the first hand. The button rotates clockwise from player to player after each hand. The button is numbered with the hand currently being played. We'll see later that who bets first and therefore who bets last is of critical importance to our game strategy. We'll consider the adjustments a player should make for position.
The Secret Bet and Secret Action
During a round all starting cards are dealt face up. Bets are made in the open in clockwise succession starting with the button. New elements to EBJ are the secret bet and secret action. During each new round players are given one secret bet chip. The secret bet can be used at any time to make a wager of hidden value. In addition, during live play, one secret action can be used with or without the secret bet. The secret action enables a player to stand, surrender, or double down without the opposing players knowing the selection. The value a bet or action can be from 0 chips to the maximum allowed during the round. In live play, a player may use the secret action without the secret bet but in doing so loses the future right to use the secret bet. Again, the rules vary for this aspect of play so always confirm your options with the tournament director. Hitting or splitting a hand are not secret action options, these actions take place in view of all players.
In live play secret bet and secret action cards are provided for players to write the appropriate information on. The player will step away from the table and write the desired information on the card. The card is then placed on the wager spot and covered with the secret bet chip. Upon completion of all hands the dealer will reveal the secret card(s) and follow through on any indicated actions. When a player uses a secret action the dealer will place one card face down on the hand. This card will come into play only of the player has selected double down as the secret action, otherwise it is place into the discards pile.
Both of these secret options are of critical strategic and tactical importance. How and when you use them can dictate your results in a round. The secret options can be compared to bluffing in poker. They are best used to deceive and confuse your opponents. Use them to your best advantage by making a bet or action they might not expect. We'll look at both of these options in depth later and suggest some strategies for their use.
Here is a summary of the key elements of an EBJ tournament;
Tournament Rounds
EBJ tournaments consist of one or more rounds. The number of rounds in a tournament depends on the number of entrants. One round consists of a maximum of 30 blackjack hands. There are usually 6 or 7 players at each table for a round.
Players start with 25,000 chips and must bet between 500 chips minimum and 25,000 chips maximum on each hand. The player or players with the most chips at the end of the round advance to the next round. Most rounds advance 2 or 3 players to the next round. Always be sure to know how many players will advance in the round you're playing.
Surviving players are then assigned to new tables for the next round where all players again start with 25,000 chips. This will continue until the final 6 or 7 players remain. The tournament then culminates with a final table. Players at the final table start with 100,000 chips and must bet between 1,000 chips minimum and 100,000 chips maximum on each hand.
Elimination Hands
During a round, hands number 8, 16, 25, and 30 are designated as Elimination Hands (EH). After each of these EH the player with the least amount of chips is eliminated from the tournament. Players that lose all their chips between EH are also eliminated. In actual practice a round may or may not last the full 30 hands before the required number of player eliminations have occurred.
The Button
At the start of a round the button is assigned to one of the players. That player must bet first and act first on the first hand. The button rotates clockwise from player to player after each hand. The button is numbered with the hand currently being played. We'll see later that who bets first and therefore who bets last is of critical importance to our game strategy. We'll consider the adjustments a player should make for position.
The Secret Bet and Secret Action
During a round all starting cards are dealt face up. Bets are made in the open in clockwise succession starting with the button. New elements to EBJ are the secret bet and secret action. During each new round players are given one secret bet chip. The secret bet can be used at any time to make a wager of hidden value. In addition, during live play, one secret action can be used with or without the secret bet. The secret action enables a player to stand, surrender, or double down without the opposing players knowing the selection. The value a bet or action can be from 0 chips to the maximum allowed during the round. In live play, a player may use the secret action without the secret bet but in doing so loses the future right to use the secret bet. Again, the rules vary for this aspect of play so always confirm your options with the tournament director. Hitting or splitting a hand are not secret action options, these actions take place in view of all players.
In live play secret bet and secret action cards are provided for players to write the appropriate information on. The player will step away from the table and write the desired information on the card. The card is then placed on the wager spot and covered with the secret bet chip. Upon completion of all hands the dealer will reveal the secret card(s) and follow through on any indicated actions. When a player uses a secret action the dealer will place one card face down on the hand. This card will come into play only of the player has selected double down as the secret action, otherwise it is place into the discards pile.
Both of these secret options are of critical strategic and tactical importance. How and when you use them can dictate your results in a round. The secret options can be compared to bluffing in poker. They are best used to deceive and confuse your opponents. Use them to your best advantage by making a bet or action they might not expect. We'll look at both of these options in depth later and suggest some strategies for their use.
November 18, 2008
1) Introduction
Welcome to my Blog dedicated to teaching you how to play the game of Elimination Blackjack (EBJ). EBJ is an exciting way to play the popular game of blackjack in a tournament format. This Blog contains tips on some strategies and tactics you'll need to be competitive in this form of tournament blackjack. Consider this material as a map for your path to EBJ success. It represents my opinions of how to approach the game. There are many ways to play the game successfully. Consider my thoughts on the game and then develop your individual style of play.
You can play Elimination Blackjack live on the internet. Play for free or win cash and other prizes at Club UBT. Click on the Club UBT banner advertisement to join the fun for free! You can play for real money on the Ultimate Bet web site. Click on the Ultimate Bet banner advertisement to open your new account. Both sites also offer you the option to play poker.
This is a new gaming frontier with growing popularity among players. Since everyone knows how to play blackjack, imagine the possibilities and growth potential for Elimination Blackjack! The information contained on my posts will give you a solid foundation for success in this game. You'll be up to speed and competitive in just a short time.
To make this information as useful as possible I'll be giving specific examples of how to play the game. Many of the examples will be simplified to illustrate a specific topic or strategy. Some of the more advanced concepts will require the reader to think about the examples and then apply them to similar tournament scenarios. In many instances there is not a single "correct" way to play the hand. Your individual judgement and intuition will be key ingredients for success. Above all, create you own style of play and have fun!
You can play Elimination Blackjack live on the internet. Play for free or win cash and other prizes at Club UBT. Click on the Club UBT banner advertisement to join the fun for free! You can play for real money on the Ultimate Bet web site. Click on the Ultimate Bet banner advertisement to open your new account. Both sites also offer you the option to play poker.
This is a new gaming frontier with growing popularity among players. Since everyone knows how to play blackjack, imagine the possibilities and growth potential for Elimination Blackjack! The information contained on my posts will give you a solid foundation for success in this game. You'll be up to speed and competitive in just a short time.
To make this information as useful as possible I'll be giving specific examples of how to play the game. Many of the examples will be simplified to illustrate a specific topic or strategy. Some of the more advanced concepts will require the reader to think about the examples and then apply them to similar tournament scenarios. In many instances there is not a single "correct" way to play the hand. Your individual judgement and intuition will be key ingredients for success. Above all, create you own style of play and have fun!
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