Poker is a game that requires attention, skill and dedication to learn the strategies. Playing in a poker tournament is just the next logical step in the poker progression. Poker tournaments are all the rage now and you can easily find them in the traditional brick and mortar casinos, online and even on TV. The number of players may range from two players, often called a “heads up tournament”, or literally ten thousand! Online casinos have given players the capability to play at any time and from any location.
To be declared the winner of a poker tournament is to be the only player left standing, or that is, with any chips left. Often times, you will pay a buy in and be given a set amount of chips. These chips no longer have any value and you may not cash them in. These chips determine your place in the tournament and if you will have a seat at the final table.
Whether you choose to play online or in the traditional casino, you will have many choices, including games, limits and structure. If you have ever watched these tournaments online, then you know that Texas Hold’em is a hot game in the tournament scene. However, it is not the only one and you may even find your poker gift lies in a multi-game format like HORSE. HORSE is an acronym for Hold’em, Omaha, Razz, Seven Card Stud and Eight or Better. There is no end to the games that are available for players when you get ready to play poker.
Limit and no limit poker are always available. If you have deep pockets, and know what you are asking for, then you can enjoy the thrill of a no limit game. In fact, tournaments favor increasing the blind each hand more than in a normal game. This ensures that the game doesn’t go on too long. Know the blind structure for your specific game and table before you even register to play.
Usually, tournaments require you to register and then be at the table a specific hour. You play until you are out of chips, and then you are “knocked out”. Other tournaments may allow you to “re-buy” as your chips evaporate. Make sure you follow your personal money management rules here or you will spend well more than you intended! The “shootout” tournament is start at one table and then the last player left is the winner. This style will only accommodate up to 10 players typically.
Tournament strategy is similar to the standard table play with a tweak. When you are playing for a long term goal, that is to be the overall winner, then you may need to adjust your betting strategy. Deciding when to bet big and when to bet small is an art form that makes mere mortals into millionaires.