Blackjack is one of the many games that was established since the 1600s. This classic game of cards is the most favored activity in the casino wherein many individuals earn a lot of values. The popularity of the table game vastly grew throughout the years as many gamblers discovered more strategies that can benefit them in the game. During the time when cards were shuffled manually, no one expected that machines would take over in this era. Nowadays, people have discovered an efficient and convenient tool, which is the continuous shuffling machine. Continuous shuffling machines (CSMs) are often used in the casino in order to help speed up games. These machines contributed a great benefit to dealers and made it easier for them. However, there are situations wherein gamblers doubt the authenticity of these CSMs. Gamblers often think these machines are rigged and give the house edge a higher advantage.
The Blackjack Continuous Shuffling Machines
Continuous shuffling machine (CSM) is a gambling device where dealers can insert decks of cards at the top. The device has numerous slots inside, which serves as the card holders. Once the dealer operates the CSM, the machine shuffles the deck of cards into the slots in a random manner. After the cards were distributed by the device, the CSM will push up a deck at the top. The dealer will take the cards and deal them to the players. This machine prevents the dealer to stop and shuffle the cards, this way the game-play will be smoother.
Why Casinos Love CSM
Casinos are recently installing these CSMs to their tables mainly because of its convenience, efficiency, and many more advantages that can benefit the dealer, the players, and the game.
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Faster Layout of Games
Dealers often stop a blackjack game in order to shuffle the cards. They normally do this after 60% to 75 % of the shoe has been dealt and it can last for several minutes. The purpose of the continuous shuffling machines is to prevent these impediments. However, these stoppages also cost them money. Casinos what the advantages these CSMs provide just as much as they want faster games to capitalize this advantage. The machines give casinos to deal around 20% more hands for every hour.
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Increased Profits
Profits made on the table game depend on different factors and this includes the dealer’s speed and the number of people participating. It is an undeniable fact that gambling establishments want to deal many hands in the game. They can earn thousands of values each day when CSMs are used by the dealers.
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Destroys Card Counting Players
Card counters are one of the few individuals who are avoided by many casinos. A skilled card counter increases his advantage over the house and gains guaranteed profits. Another reason why casinos install continuous shuffling machines on their tables is to prevent gamblers from using a card counting method. In order for card counters to make profits, the method needs deck penetration. Their count is more accurate when 70% of the deck has been dealt unlike the 20%. The dealer does not need to make pauses when CSMs are involved. They can grab a pile and insert them in the machine, giving card counters an inadequate deck penetration.
Common Misconceptions about CSMs
Not all casinos have continuous shuffling machines in their facilities since many customers oppose these devices. There are certain gamblers who refuse to play at table games with CSMs and often have common misconceptions about the machines.
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Raises House Edge
An average player will often lose values at the table with a CSM. As a result, they think that these machines raise the casino’s edge. In fact, CSM lowers the house advantage by 0.014%. There is a better chance at winning a hand at machine-dealt tables. The only reason why people tend to lose in games that involve CSM is due to the game speed. Gamblers see more hands every hour and are exposed more to the casino edge.
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Rigs Games for Casinos
Gamblers often face the worst odds when CSMs are involved due to the game speed. This results in more losses for an average gambler. One more misconception about the CSM is that some gamblers believe that they are rigged. This logic relates to any casino game that deals with machines mainly because gamblers cannot see the internal operation of the devices. Legitimate casinos cannot risk having biased CSMs or rigged devices because that would easily revoke their license and they will be forced to shut down.
Playing at Tables with CSMs
Your preferences will determine whether you are willing to play a blackjack table with CSM or not. You do not need to worry about encountering a rigged game or the house edge. If you do not mind the thought of machine-based games, then playing at these tables will not worry you.
The involvement of CSM makes the atmosphere more robotic than the classic blackjack game. If you need the traditional aspect of the game then you should look for hand-shuffled games.
Again, table games with machinery can increase your losses due to the game speed. However, you can overcome this situation by studying and practicing basic blackjack strategies. This way you will have better odds in your favor.
An Alternative in Blackjack
The installation of CSMs are slowly growing in the gambling industry. However, this does not mean you should settle for these games. There are international gambling destinations that feature CSMs in every table at their casino. This would include Macau and Monte Carlo. You should definitely avoid these places if you do not want CSMs involved in your game. On the bright side, hand-shuffled tables are still offered globally in various casinos.
