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Edge sorting is a contentious technique used in advantage gambling, where a player determines the value of face-down playing cards. This method exploits subtle, unintentional differences in the patterns on the backs of cards dealt at casino table games. While edge sorting is not inherently cheating, it walks a fine line between fair play and exploiting a casino’s oversight.
The practice of edge sorting hinges on the fact that many playing card manufacturers produce decks with slight irregularities on the card backs. These differences are often imperceptible to the untrained eye but can provide an astute gambler with valuable information. For instance, the pattern on the back of a card may not be perfectly symmetrical, allowing a player to identify the orientation of a card as either high or low value.
The technique gained notoriety through the actions of professional poker player Phil Ivey. He won substantial sums by edge sorting during high-stakes games of Baccarat, only to face legal challenges from casinos accusing him of cheating. The courts have had varying interpretations, with some rulings stating that manipulating the dealer to rotate certain cards constitutes cheating under civil law.
How does edge sorting work in practice? A player first needs to notice the minute differences in the card backs. Then, during gameplay, they might ask the dealer to rotate high-value cards under the guise of superstition. If the dealer obliges, the player can then track these cards throughout the game. This knowledge provides a statistical advantage, potentially outweighing the house edge.
The legality of edge sorting has been a subject of debate. In the case of Phil Ivey, a Federal Judge ruled that while he did not commit fraud, he breached his contract with the casino, leading to a multimillion-dollar lawsuit. This ruling implies that edge sorting crosses the boundaries of acceptable strategies in gambling.
Edge sorting requires a combination of sharp observation skills, the ability to convince the dealer to unknowingly assist in the process, and the use of automatic shufflers that do not alter the orientation of the cards. It’s a method that demands precision and discretion, as any misstep can render the effort useless.