BLOG 4:

You Should Always Play GTO

Game Theory Optimal (GTO) strategies are often hailed as the gold standard in poker. However, many players mistakenly believe that they should always play a GTO strategy. While GTO provides a solid foundation and helps prevent exploitation, it can be overly complex and not always the best approach against weaker opponents. In many cases, exploiting the mistakes of your opponents can yield greater rewards than sticking rigidly to GTO principles. If you’re playing against less experienced players, adjusting your strategy to capitalize on their tendencies can be more effective. For instance, if an opponent is overly cautious, you might want to bluff more often, while if they are too aggressive, you could focus on value betting with strong hands. Flexibility in strategy is key; knowing when to apply GTO concepts and when to deviate based on your opponents’ behaviors can significantly enhance your overall performance. Therefore, while GTO is an important aspect of poker strategy, it should not be viewed as the only way to play.