In 2008, Slovenia's Elektroncek introduced a multi-player automated blackjack game that used real cards. Perhaps the use of real cards was why they named their gaming systems Organic, because I fail to see these mechanical gaming devices as a holistic, ecologically-balanced approach to gambling. Perhaps the name just gets lost in translation.
Whatever their thinking, the Interblock G4 Organic Card Blackjack game I've been investigating is a well-designed modular unit with seven individual player terminals around an electro-mechanical shuffler and dealing device. The machine at the Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, AZ uses eight actual decks of cards for each "shoe" and has another eight decks shuffling under a large plastic bubble.
The machine automatically shuffles and deals all cards, reading them from a bar code and showing the outcome on each player's terminal and a larger upright screen for all players to see. The number of decks used, rules and bet limits can all be set by the casino.
This isn't the fastest game around, although Elektroncek says it can deliver up to 30 percent more hands per hour than live dealers, I don't believe I've ever seen a live game as slow as this one. Maybe because the players, betting from $1 to a maximum of $29 are all new to the game.
For new players, this is a great way to learn the game of blackjack. Make sure you click on the rules section to see what options are allowed when splitting and doubling down.
For aspiring new card counters, the low bet limit and ability to take plenty of time to make decisions is perfect for real-money practice. Make sure you get a player's club card!
With eight decks and a bet spread of $1 to $29 you should be able to rack up plenty of points, learn your system, and turn a little profit.
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