16 Jun 2025
As the world of blackjack continuously grows and the number of players increases, more and more of these players have turned to card counting to help make their games more exciting.
Among the card counting techniques available, the Zen Count is an interesting choice for those who would like to add excitement when playing in a modern casino.
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Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Card counting is not permitted at our casino, and any attempt to engage in such practices may result in a ban or permanent exclusion. We do not encourage or condone card counting in any form. Always play responsibly! |
Jump into this interesting card counting system by reading the following points in our article:
- What is the Zen Count?
- How Does the Zen Count Work?
- How Is the True Count Used?
What is the Zen Count?
The Zen Count by Arnold Snyder was published back in his book, Blackbelt in Blackjack. Regarded by some as one of the more advanced card counting systems, the Zen Count is a Level 2 blackjack card counting system, which makes it a great choice for intermediate to advanced counters, as well as ambitious beginners.
Unlike his previous Red Seven count, this system uses a true count to help you make betting decisions.
‼️ The house will always have an edge. Players should never try to recover losses by gambling more. The outcome of the games is always entirely based on luck and chance.
Zen Card Values
Similarly to all other card counting systems, the Zen Count assigns values to various card ranks:
|
Card Rank |
Value |
|
2, 3 |
+1 |
|
4 to 6 |
+2 |
|
7 |
+1 |
|
8, 9 |
0 |
|
10, J, Q, K, Ace |
-2 |
This is a balanced card counting system, which means that at the end of the deck, you should be back at 0.
Zen: True Count
As the cards are dealt, you should be keeping a running count of the values, which will then be converted into the true count. This is calculated by dividing your running count by the number of decks remaining, as shown through this formula:
True Count = Running Count
Number of Decks Remaining
The true count does not have to be exact in the Zen Count. A close enough estimate is good enough to be used for betting decisions.
How Is the True Count Used?
As the true count is calculated, you can make informed betting decisions based on the resulting value. Similarly to other counting systems that use a true count, you may increase your bet if the resulting number is high.
You may follow this bet spread when using the Zen Count:
|
True Count |
Wager |
|
< 0 |
1 unit |
|
+1 |
1 unit |
|
+2 |
2 units |
|
+3 |
3 units |
|
+4 |
4 units |
|
+5 |
5 units |
However, if you are determined to use card counting systems, such as the Zen Count, we recommend betting normally or changing your betting habits only slightly. Card counting is not encouraged in casinos, so if you are suspected of counting, you may be asked to leave the table.
Will You Be Getting Into the Zen?
While card counting systems will not guarantee any wins, these are great ways to add more challenge to the classic card game.
The Zen Count is a great system for beginners looking to step up their card counting game, as well as for counters that are looking for a new system to learn. Known as one of the best card counting systems, the Zen is a great way to add some spice to your blackjack games.
‼️ Remember: No system guarantees success. Blackjack is still a game of chance, and the house always has the advantage. Play responsibly and for entertainment.
