Wielding the Big Stack
It’s a big leap in a poker player’s life when he learns that his chip stack is more than just a way to keep score, it’s also a strategic advantage. If you’re the big stack in online poker, you’re in control-you tell people what the blinds are, you determine the pace of the game. Remember, as the big stack, you’re the celebrity of the table; all eyes are on you, so the image that you cultivate is important.
If you exude confidence, you’ll breed insecurity in your opponents, and insecure opponents bleed chips. Raise exorbitant amounts before the flop, and watch you opponents fold. Even if you don’t buy everyone out, another big raise after the flop is likely to scare out any competitors-few players are willing to risk half their stack for a middle pair.
When you’re playing poker online, vary your play a bit. Limp into the hand to confuse your opponents, then call them all in if the flop hits (even if it doesn’t), and dare them to call you. Since you can afford to take risks, your opponents won’t know when you’ve got cards and when your bluffing, and it’s just a matter of time before they make the wrong call and they’re out of the game.
