Frequently Asked Questions: Game Theory Optimal

game optimal theory

Game Theory Optimal, also known as GTO, is what many players strive towards. But is it a reality or a fantasy?

We're going to delve into that with our GTO FAQs.

Game Optimal Theory FAQs

What is Game Optimal Theory?

This is the ultimate strategy when it comes to no-limit hold'em. In short, it's when every decision you make gives you the best long-term profits.

Is GTO when you just follow the statistics?

In many cases, yes it's about the math, but a perfect Game Optimal Theory will see people mixing it up in certain situations. You can see that most clearly in heads-up games, where just working on statistics doesn't always make you the victor.

What's the main benefit of GTO?

This approach to poker lessens your exposure to losses. It gives you a clear path to see what makes the most logical sense in any given scenario. In short, it gives you a map.

Does the randomness of playing against humans mess up GTO?

The real enemy of Game Optimal Theory is human opponents. It's due to the fact that even when you change your strategy to account for theirs, they'll change their strategy right back.

It's a vicious cycle and you can't really overcome, especially when you're playing against more than one other person.

Has anyone figured out the perfect way to play No Limit Hold'em with GTO?

In a word, no. The sad truth is there is no perfect poker strategy. Well maybe there is. But the logistics of trying to memorize every single possible move based on every single possible move of your opponent are pretty well damn impossible to actually learn.

So why should we pay attention to Game Optimal Theory?

In short, it's a great way to learn the basic principles of poker. It also helps you figure out what certain moves in certain situations are a good idea.

It's a great basis for a strategy, especially against tough players. Which is why we think it's important to pay attention to it.

Is there an alternative to GTO?

Yes there is. It's called exploitative poker. Basically, it encourages you to sometimes make a play that might not be backed up by statistics, therefore exposes you to potential losses. However, it lets you take advantage of your opponents weaknesses.

This comes into play when you're playing against someone who keeps on bluffing badly or even just tends to play mediocre cards. It's worth your while loosening your range as a result, even if the GTO would instruct you not to do it.

Want some more strategy content?

If you're hungry for more strategy content, we've got a few ideas to point you in the right direction. For example, there are some absolutely excellent poker strategy podcasts. And, of course it might seem a bit old school, but you've got to get the classic strategy books onto your reading list too. We've also got quite a few useful poker vids that can give you some really great easy to understand tips as well.

And here's where we think you should try out your new skills

Sometimes when you're trying a new strategy or approach to poker, it can be a little intimidating to do it face to face. In a big bricks and mortar poker room or even at a home poker night, it can be tricky to keep your head in the game with all those eyes on you.

That's why we really like to play online, especially when were just developing our skills in a certain area. One of our favorite venues for online poker at the moment is bet365. They've got a rake of great promotions, tonnes of excellent tables, a variety of buy-ins, tournaments and cash games. Plus there's this juicy bet365 bonus code for new players who sign up today.

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Craig Klinski -

Senior Editor

Craig is a writer and editor with over 20 years of experience with online content and marketing in the online gambling space, notably online poker. Craig specializes in analysis of online gaming sites as well as the online gaming industry

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