In the online multi-table tournament, it’s Darwin’s survival of the fittest
theory that takes center stage.
Multi-Table Tournaments, or MTTs,
require a different way of thinking than the typical ring game, where digging
into your pocket or bank account for more money is an option. These online
tournaments can take up a good chunk of time, but have become the
standard-bearer of the game, as poker has become a cultural force through
coverage of the World Series of Poker on ESPN and the Travel Channel’s World
Poker Tour. In fact, the MTT game has become even more intriguing since the 2003
WSOP winner Chris Moneymaker qualified for the world’s biggest tournament
through a multi-table satellite tournament for a paltry $40 buy-in.
The
basics of an MTT begin with the buy-in fee. The range can be from $1 to $200,
depending on the site and size of the tournament. Each player starts with the
same amount of chips, the blinds increase periodically, and the winnings are
given out according to how a player finishes the tournament. So, when you take
the leap into an MTT, you should have one major goal: finish in the money.
Strategy for tournament games revolves around chip stack. Your survival depends
on it. Just making it past the early rounds, where you should practice playing
tight, means several things. It means when you do bet, the chances of being
called are much lower. It means that when you are called, you should expect to
be facing a better hand than normal. And finally, it means you will be mucking
some good hands you never imagined you would be laying down
For
any MTT rookie, the sound strategy is to not overstep your bounds early in the
tournament. Coming out too aggressive when the blinds are relatively cheap is a
big mistake. Patience is the key and only the best hands should be played as you
watch the other overly aggressive players go toe-to-toe, trying to knock each
other out. If, however, you do have the hand, like a big pair, it’s wise to play
aggressively in order to make a statement and protect yourself from the bad
beat.
As you build your stack, your approach to the game has to change.
Players who make it to the final table in the MTT have to turn on the aggression
or they’ll end up with less prize money. At this point of the game, players
can’t just sit back and let the bigger blinds eat away at their chip stacks.
Naturally,
the strategy at the final table depends on, what else, the chip stack. If you’re
low on chips, you’ll have to be the gambler at the table, trapping the big
stacks, going all-in and trying to double up. Consequently, if you’re the big
stack, be patient and don’t fall into that trap by trying to make a foolish
stand. At the final table of an MTT, always think a step ahead. Before betting,
you must know what your response will be to a raise or all-in raise. Otherwise,
the uncertainty and indecision will be a cross you will have to bear.
