In blackjack card counting there is a level 2 count called the Zen Count created or credited to Arnold Snyder. I always like to say "credit to" because who knows how many players came up with and used that same count or technique before the person that published it and gets credit for it. (no offense to Arnold Snyder for this example)Originally Posted by DGenBen
So when Zenking first appeared back on Norm's blackjack forum, I always thought his name was in reference to the Zen count, assuming that he played that count at the time. But I really have no idea.
The one good thing about Zenking's periodic rants and venting about losing periods, is that it highlights the rather significant variance and swings associated with blackjack card counting. There are so many players, both somewhat experienced and especially newer players that just fail to grasp the concept of the variance and swings involved. Part of my sharing my journey is such detail over the years has been to bring this variance of blackjack card counting to the forefront.
Back before computer simulations were so common, there was a loose rule that to be properly bankrolled a player needed 100 times his largest wager or Max Bet. Players underfunded and taking on more risk, might go with 50 times largest wager. With computer simulations we now know the real number to be properly bankrolled is more than 100 times. But just think about that. This kind of bankroll is needed because these kinds of swings and variance are rather commonplace in card counting.
Again, I think this is one of the least understood areas among card counters, especially the newer players. You Have to understand the math and that means the variance involved with card counting if you intend to play seriously.
I would be willing to bet that just regular, normal variance has ended more card counters play than anything, either by wiping out their small under funded BR all together or just a negative run that they are ill prepared to handle mentally, and they quit saying something about how card counting doesn't work.
Anyway, that is why despite all his issue and his name-calling of people, even players that tried to help him at times, I still feel like Zenking's periodic posts are useful to some players....whatever card counters may be left.
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