Strategy for 6 handed poker games
Sep 12th, 2008 | By seb hayyes | Category: Internet6 max games are a very interesting variant of no-limit poker. Because the field is reduced to 6 players or less, hand ranges can be much wider. Some plays that were -EV (expected value) at a full ring table can often be profitable 6 handed.
For example, some players don’t like raising small pocket pairs from early position (like Daut) full ring. But when you’re playing 6 Max you can profitably raise any PP from any position.
So what are the main differences between 6 max and full ring from a strategic standpoint?
* In 6 max you can play your pocket pairs like AK from any position. Even when your c bet doesn’t take down the pot your hand has more value than full ring.
* The relative strength of your hands increase. You can typically go all the way and commit your stack with two pair against a loose aggressive opponent.
* Many pots will end up heads-up and you generally see more hands 6 handed. This allows the best players to press their edge more often.
*You can make plenty of squeeze plays from the blinds. The fast paced and aggressive nature of 6 max cash games allow you to push your preflop equities.
Can’t make up your mind on your favorite kind of game? Here is a test for you. Count up how many times you replied yes to the following questions.
* Do you enjoy maximizing you long term win rate at the expense of variance ? By this we mean although you will win more money in the long term your swings will be much larger?
* Do you like playing a lot of pots? Do you prefer creating a loose aggressive image at the table to get paid on your strong hands?
* Are you a semi-pro looking to maximize your hourly earnings? Do you like to multi-table and increase your expected value by playing as many hands as possible ?
* Do you like incorporating player reads into your decisions? Because the game is short handed you will always have the opportunity to use reads to your advantage.
There is no one game that is superior to the other. It all comes down to personal taste and how one approaches the game.