Tournaments are one of the most common types of poker competitions among professional poker players and amateurs in search of thrills. Knowing how to manage them requires expertise and some wisdom, as they differ greatly in some aspects from other poker competitions and it’s a good idea to know what to look out for if you sign up for one.
Here is a brief overview of some of the key aspects to always keep in mind when playing in a poker tournament.
Types of poker tournaments
Among all the types of poker tournaments that we can find, there are two main ones. On the one hand, we have the spin tournaments, and on the other hand, the multi-table tournaments. Their styles could not be more different: while the spins advocate a faster pace (especially in its spin & go mode), the multi-table tournaments are based on the conventional poker games, but allowing players to play several hands at the same time on different tables, diversifying strategies and opting for a higher reward.
A multi-table tournament has a registration period in which the player must register. If he/she exceeds the deadline, he/she will not be able to enter the competition. Punctuality in these tournaments is important because they have a pre-set schedule in advance, which allows organizing the times of the games to offer players the possibility of playing the events they want.
In an MTT tournament, victory depends mainly on the phase of the game. In the first phase the game is very tight; in the second phase the blinds go up and the stacks are no longer balanced, while in the third phase the players opt for a more aggressive game.
A spin tournament is fast, vertiginous, ideal for those looking for constant action. It does not allow you to diversify strategies, you go all in at all times and you cannot have a plan B, but it is pure adrenaline and is the best option for the most daring players.
The blinds go up at a changing pace. In the Turbo spins they go up every 5 minutes, not every 10, which gives a plus of dynamism to the games. A multi-table tournament does not offer all this, but in exchange it has other advantages.
Tips for playing poker tournaments
The first thing you should be clear about is that poker is a mental sport, and as such, it needs dedication and perseverance. We are not only talking about spending many hours playing, but doing it in a sustainable, gradual and progressive way, always respecting schedules, not compromising your own and others’ wellbeing, controlling your stack, not using money that is needed for basic activities.
Tournaments put so many players in contact with each other that many players who end up being part of a club meet in tournaments. It’s a great way to meet new players, bond with other fans and create the basis for a relationship that can be mutually beneficial.
In tournaments, more than in any other kind of competition, it is paramount to keep your guard up and not lose sight of bad beats. Falling into a tilt is the worst thing that can happen to a player, especially a tournament participant, as the bad streak, that loop of negativity and poor fortune will be extrapolated to all the events of the tournament. The potential winnings are greater, but if you do not have a clear mind, it will be impossible to opt for anything. It is not just about knowing how to play poker tournaments: it is about making poker tournaments profitable, playing the games you want to play and enjoying one of the most appreciated mind sports by amateurs and professionals all over the world.
Among the amateurs of cash games, it is common to have some qualms when playing tournaments. In a duel between poker tournaments vs. cash games it would be necessary to see in which kind of games the player performs better, since the game changes. Tournaments are played with points, and cash games are played with money. Things change a lot when you are betting real money.
Tips when choosing poker tournaments
It is advisable to take a look at the tournament schedule before taking the plunge, as each one has a particular structure, rhythm and dynamics depending on the organizer and the player’s target.
Take a look at the buy-ins, the type of events and especially the satellite tournaments, a good entry point for those who have been eliminated at the first time and want a second chance.
A poker tournament is the best way to test yourself in a big way with players of all levels, so don’t hesitate and take part in one. The experience is unique and worth a try.
Otherwise, be patient, don’t want to win from the start and don’t be afraid not to play too many hands at the beginning. Acclimatize, think about your game and have fun. That’s the best recipe.