Poker-Open Tables versus Closed Tables
You need to observe your opponents in order to figure out their game, style, hand and strategy. You also need to know whether the table you are playing at is open or closed.
Here is a rule that applies in poker: adopt a loose game when the table is tight and a tight game when the table is loose. This is very simple, but you need to know what all these terms mean. Usually, good players can figure out the kind of table they are playing at sometime during the first round. You can already know which player has what style in the first round.
Tight tables and the game at tight tables
Tight tables are characterized by tight players who play carefully and logically. Such players are also known as lions or mice. Their game is very tight. These players focus very hard, so these tables are very silent. They do not bluff or make raises too frequently. It is not at all easy to win money at a tight table and there is no jackpot like some casinos online is offering. You can only win step by step. You can only be a tight player if you have a high power of concentration and if you are very patient. The players at a tight table know the game and are always very prudent. Therefore, they only make a move when they are confident in their hand.
Bluffs are not recommended at tight tables. Everybody knows that. However, you can try this strategy if you are in late position or in middle position. There are not many mistakes around this table because the players are always on guard.
Loose tables and the game at loose tables
Loose tables are characterized by loose players. These tables are quite dynamic. The players do not base their game on logic and bet all the time. Their game is based on gut. Most players pay to see the flop. There can also be jackpots (which grow very quickly) at loose tables. The players encountered at these tables are also known as elephants or jackals. Elephants follow a lot while jackals are characterized by a loose game and a high level of aggressiveness. A tight game is recommended at a loose table. You should place small bets and be careful. You do not have to focus on the pot. The players at loose tables bluff a lot, so you have to be very careful and read them properly. However, you should know a truth: Bluffers can also be bluffed.
Pay attention to the signals sent by the players present at such a table and you should have no problems identifying their style. Give your interest in reading your opponents because that is the key to success in poker. For example, you might want to find out how well they cope with stress. Stress is a very important factors, especially around tight tables, which are characterized by frequent confrontations and great pressure.
