Poker Tips

Live Sit and Gos Poker StrategyThe sit and go is a well known online poker phenomenon. Although the idea of the sit and go originally got its genesis from a live poker concept, the poker satellite, it has become primarily associated with Internet play. Now things have come full circle, and some live casinos are offering sit and gos in addition to satellites. If you find yourself playing in a live casino sit and go, you should be aware of the differences in play.

First, you should make sure you are aware whether you are playing in a cash sit and go or a satellite when you sit down to play in a live casino. A satellite is more common. In a satellite, you are playing for a seat in a larger tournament, or more often, for “tournament chips” which can only be used to play tournament entry fees (they are not used as actual chips in play in the tournament itself). In addition, these single table satellites are generally winner take all, an important distinction, since survival is irrelevant; one must get all the chips to win, although deals are sometimes made.

If you are actually playing in a live sit and go, play will be very similar to the online version. Three spots usually get paid, representing roughly a half, a third and a fifth of the prize pool respectively, minus the casino fee. Rounds usually last about 15 minutes, and the amount of starting chips vary according to the buy-in. One big difference you may notice between the live and online version is that a live sit and go doesn’t always get started so quickly. Unlike at an online poker site, most players who enter a live casino are not looking specifically to play sit and go poker. Many may not even be aware it exists. You need to consider if you have a better expectation playing a cash poker game or a larger tournament where you can sit down and start playing more quickly. If that is not a concern, you just have to be patient. You might spend the time that you are waiting by watching another sit and go already in play. Many players jump into another sit and go as soon as they bust out, so you may get some free information about one of your opponents.

You also may find that your live casino opponents play poker a little bit tighter than your online opponents. Online opponents tend to be looser and general, and those you face at a live cardroom sit and go may be working with a limited bankroll, tentative due to inexperience, or just a more thoughtful player who takes his time investment in coming to the casino seriously.

Live sit and gos can be just as much fun as the online version, and some people like them even better. You have the opportunity to physically interact with your opponents and enjoy the sights and smells of a live casino. For some players, there is no substitute for this experience.