While a poker game will always contain a certain element of luck, the best poker players are the ones who are intimately familiar with the best strategies and when and how to use these strategies.
To gain an edge when you play Live Poker at Goldrush against other players, take a look at some of the best poker tactics and strategies that will help you become a more confident and profitable poker player:
Play Fewer Hands and Play Them Aggressively
It’s advisable not to play too many hands, as most professionals recommend playing only about 15% to 25% of your hands in a full-ring game. At the same time, it’s important to also raise the pot when you play, and the tactic of limping (calling the big blind) is generally discouraged, as it provides a cheap way to beat you for too many players.
If you’re a beginner or relatively inexperienced player, Tight-Aggressive (TAG) play is widely considered one of the best strategies. Focus on strong starting hands (e.g., big pairs, A-K, A-Q suited) and bet/raise rather than call. Avoid the temptation to play mediocre hands “just to see the flop”.
Don't Be the First Player To “Limp”
As the first player to enter a pot, you should avoid "Limping (where you call the big blind preflop) at all times. This is due to the fact that you can't win the pot before the flop (unlike if you raised), and you’ll give enticing pot odds to players who are behind, which means it would be likely you face multiple players and thus less likely you win the pot.
However, if at least one other player has already limped, then limping can be a good play, as you will get great pot odds to join the action so you can hit something good on the flop, hopefully.
Pay Attention to Position
Being in “late position” (e.g., on the dealer button) is a major advantage. This position gives you more information and control over pot size, and allows you to see how your opponents act before making your decision. It’s advisable to play tighter in the early position and looser in a late position.
Know When to Fold
The greatest difference between a bad player and a professional player is the player’s ability to lay down a good hand when they think they are beaten. This is easier said than done, as our natural inclination is to believe we will win when we have a good hand. It's therefore important not to fall in love with pretty hands (like Ace-Queen or pocket Jacks) when the board turns ugly. It's a mark of a strong player to fold a top pair when the betting suggests you’re beat. When folding in one of these situations, it’s also important to note the details of the hand, so you can review it and learn from it.
Study Your Opponents
Examining your opponents and the type of players they are will ultimately give you an edge in your poker play. You should be able to classify what type of strategy the other players use: tight vs. loose, passive vs. aggressive. Adjust your strategy accordingly — for example, bluff less against a “calling station” but more against a “rock.” Also, look for betting patterns, timing tells, and tendencies.
Bluff Smartly (Not Often)
While it is tempting to want to bluff in a poker match constantly, it is more advisable to only bluff in situations that are in your favour. Let the cards you have dictate your bluffing play -semi-bluffing (betting with a drawing hand like a flush draw) is more effective than pure bluffing. Remember not to bluff simply because you’re bored and to choose spots based on the board and your opponents.
Be Patient and Disciplined
It’s always best to try and take emotion out of your gameplay and to be as cool and calculated as possible. This means that you shouldn’t let emotional frustrations influence your decisions - wait for the right hands and situations, as long-term profitability depends on discipline. It’s therefore best to fold when you’re behind, even if it’s hard emotionally.
Get Your Poker Game On
Once you’ve mastered these poker strategies, Goldrush is the place to Get your Poker Game On, with the chance to test your skills and win big in live poker tournaments. Visit www.goldrush.co.za