Discourse from Frank Floor: Evaluation of the Publication - Masterminds at Play
In the captivating world of gambling, a new book titled "Advantage Players" by Michael Kaplan sheds light on the lives of some of the most skilled and daring gamblers who have managed to gain an edge, known as advantage players, through techniques such as card counting and other strategic approaches [1].
Published by Huntington Press in 2025, this comprehensive work delves into the lives of these gamblers, exploring not only classic advantage play but also the ethical gray areas in gambling, including inventive scams and illicit methods some players use to win [2][3]. Kaplan, an experienced gaming writer with five other books under his belt, has spent years chasing down and interviewing these bold winners across various gambling disciplines [3].
The book offers a deep dive into the mentality and tactics of advantage players. It is considered a culmination of Kaplanβs experience immersing in the gambling world. The content spans more than just blackjack or sportsbook advantage play, noting that some of the most impressive advantage players might not even realize they fit that category [3][4].
The book is praised for its authoritative and comprehensive account, valuable to both gambling industry insiders and enthusiasts. A review by Buddy Frank in CDC Gaming Reports notes that it is a significant and detailed work, encompassing 329 pages, reflecting both the promise and challenges within the gaming industry related to player advantage strategies [5].
The book features profiles of various advantage players, including Ernie Moody and "Vegas Matt" Morrow, who used their expertise and talents in the casino industry to become millionaires, although they do not fit the traditional definition of advantage players [1]. It also highlights stories about Phil Ivey and Kelly Sun, who became famous for their huge baccarat wins and subsequent lawsuits [1].
Moreover, the book emphasizes the importance of studying, practicing, and scrutinizing games and slots for advantage players. It suggests that some casino operators read and watch everything they can about advantage players to develop better policies and procedures [1]. The book also recommends attending annual gatherings like the "World Game Protection Conference" to keep up on the latest threats [1].
In addition to traditional advantage play, the book also discusses the use of computers by advantage players to formulate, test, and refine their strategies [1]. It is even speculated that the book's chapters could potentially be developed into a Netflix streaming series [1].
The author believes that casinos with weak policies and poorly trained team members are an open invitation for advantage players to exploit [1]. The book also includes a profile and an exclusive in-depth podcast/interview with the author, which can be found on the reference sites "Faces of Gaming by Tom Osiecki" and "Anthony Curtis and Andrew Hunt of the 'Las Vegas Advisor'" [1].
It is important to note that the vast majority of advantage players' activities are legal and within the rules [1]. The book highlights the importance of maintaining integrity and ethical conduct in the world of gambling.
In conclusion, "Advantage Players" is a compelling exploration of the world of advantage players, providing insights into their mentality, tactics, and the ethical complexities of their strategies. It serves as a valuable resource for both gambling enthusiasts and industry insiders.
- Sports-betting is not exempt from the strategies used by advantage players, as the book discusses the use of computers by some players to create, test, and perfect their strategies, potentially making casino-gambling and sports-betting parallel spheres for skilled gamblers [1].
- In the realm of casino-culture, some personalities have manipulated their expertise to amass fortunes, like Ernie Moody and "Vegas Matt" Morrow, who became millionaires despite not necessarily fitting the conventional definition of advantage players [1].
- "Advantage Players" also brings attention to the intersection of casino-and-gambling and sports, with the book mentioning the lawsuits that surrounded Phil Ivey and Kelly Sun's huge baccarat wins [1].
