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Edge sorting has become a much-talked-about strategy when it comes to winning at card games. This is quite different from traditional methods, such as card counting in blackjack. This method is more dependent on the player’s attention to detail and noticing small details in the design of playing cardbacks. This was the technique that allowed poker champion Phil Ivey to win close to 20 million dollars at baccarat tables with high stakes.
However, is edge sorting a good or fair approach to the game? In this case, we will see how edge sorting works, why it was subject to high-profile legal battles, and what steps casinos are taking to avoid it.
- Edge sorting is a method of gaining an advantage by skilled players in certain card games.
- Edge sorting is not officially associated with cheating or fraud.
- Phil Ivey is a famous poker player who used edge sorting in practice, winning over 19.6 million dollars.
- Casinos actively prevent edge sorting by implementing shuffling machines and new card designs.
What Is Edge Sorting in Baccarat & How It Works?
A special technique of identifying blackjack visual features of cards in order to have an advantage is called edge sorting. The method essentially is that the player very carefully studies the back of the cards and picks up small things, like unevenness or things different in the pattern.
A few interesting details:
- The design of the cards – Cards used in baccarat have different patterns on the back, and they are supposed to be identical. However, in practice, this isn’t always the case – manufacturing defects or special markings create unevenness and differences that can be spotted through careful examination of the back of the cards;
- Applying edge sorting in baccarat – Attentive players are able to spot these defects, allowing them to distinguish cards from one another without flipping them over. To use this strategy, it takes great attention and the ability to identify any differences in the cards;
- Why do casinos overlook these card details – Defects are often not immediately obvious, so casino staff simply don’t notice them. For the player, however, this method provides a significant advantage. While edge sorting is not officially considered cheating, its use is illegal in many jurisdictions.
✅ Conditions Under which Edge Sorting Works
Edge sorting cannot be called the perfect strategy that can be applied to any card game. It will only work under certain conditions:
- Use of identical cards – All the cards in the deck must have a symmetrical design, slightly different on the back. Any imperfections in the design could give the player the chance to identify specific cards without flipping them over;
- No automatic shuffling – Tracking the position of the cards is only possible if the cards are shuffled manually between hands or not shuffled at all;
- Ability to flip cards – In some casinos, the player can ask the dealer to flip the cards in a certain way to memorize their orientation and use it to their advantage.
Edge Sorting in Action: Cases
Edge sorting has been the subject of several major legal disputes. Let’s take a closer look at the most notable cases that deserve attention.
✅ Phil Ivey’s Case Against Crockfords Casino in the UK
In August 2012, famous professional poker player Phil Ivey won £7.8 million at the British Crockfords Casino using the edge sorting method. In October 2014, a British court ruled that Ivey’s actions were fraudulent and sided with the casino. Ivey’s appeals were rejected, including a ruling by the UK Supreme Court in October 2017.
✅ Phil Ivey’s case Against Borgata Casino (USA)
Phil Ivey also used the edge sorting method at Borgata Casino in Atlantic City, USA, which allowed him to win about $9.6 million between April and October 2012. In 2014, the casino filed a lawsuit against the player, accusing him of fraud. In December 2016, the court agreed with the accusation and ordered Ivey to return $10.1 million to the casino. It was reported that in 2020 both sides reached a settlement, but its details were not disclosed.
Is Edge Sorting Legal? A Gray Area in Gambling
Edge sorting is not currently considered classic cheating, but its legality depends on the jurisdiction. Some legal cases regarding this method have deemed it a violation of fair play principles. Many casinos have the right to refuse a player’s payout if they suspect the use of edge sorting.
Casino Countermeasures: How Casinos Prevent Edge Sorting
Casinos are actively combating edge sorting and implementing measures that eliminate the possibility of using this technique:
- Automatic shufflers – These are special machines that shuffle cards without the dealer’s involvement. As a result, the player cannot manipulate the card positions;
- Symmetrical card designs – New card designs ensure the edges are completely identical, eliminating any defects that could serve as visual cues for players;
- Strict card replacement rules – Casinos also regularly replace decks used in games, which minimizes the chance of using edge sorting.
Responsible Gambling without Cheating
Edge sorting is not the most reliable strategy for earning money; rather, it’s just a loophole that casinos are gradually closing. Relying on it in the long term is simply pointless. Nowadays, casinos are increasing control over players and decks. Legal disputes confirm that casinos have the right to deny you the payout of winnings.
It’s important to follow the principles of responsible gambling. Always approach the process as a form of entertainment, not as a source of income. There are professional resources that can help you understand the principles of responsible gambling and seek help if needed:
Conclusion: Is Edge Sorting a Skill or an Exploit?
Edge sorting requires a certain level of attentiveness and knowledge of the game rules, but it’s far from being an honest gaming skill. It’s simply the exploitation of card defects and mistakes made by casino staff. The future of such a strategy is rather unclear—modern casinos are actively eliminating any loopholes, making the chances of winning absolutely equal for all players. In online casinos, this skill will be completely useless.
If you want to become a professional player, it’s better to practice other strategies, like card counting, as it doesn’t violate the principles of fair play.
FAQ
Is Edge Sorting Fraud?
Officially, it is not considered fraud, but in many countries, the method has already been recognized as a violation of fair play rules.
Can You Still Use Edge Sorting in Casinos Today?
It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to apply this method due to casinos’ more serious approach—automatic shufflers are being implemented, and symmetric cards are used, which exclude any defects.
What Is the Most Famous Case of Using Edge Sorting?
There are two of the most famous cases in history: Phil Ivey’s win of $10 million at Crockfords (UK) and $9.6 million at Borgata (USA). In both cases, the player didn’t receive the winnings obtained through fraudulent means.
Can a Casino Refuse to Pay Due to Edge Sorting?
Yes, if it is proven that you used edge sorting to gain an advantage in baccarat, your payout will be denied.
What Other Legal Ways to Gain an Advantage Exist in Casinos?
There are a few legal methods, such as card counting in blackjack, analyzing odds in poker, and proper bankroll management.
