Survive to Win
In poker online tournaments, players often take two approaches: They play to win, or they play to last. Obviously, one has to last to win, but playing just to survive does not guarantee a win. Those who play a online poker tournament with the goal to last most often are tight rocks. They only play premium cards, rarely call any bet unless they are holding hand, and can usually be made to fold by an aggressive bettor. These players hold onto their chips for dear life and are hesitant to use them as weapons. This mentality also allows the blinds to erode their chip stacks. Players who are focused on winning are more aggressive. They use their chips like bullets and often fire out many with the intention of driving other players away and to steal pots. These players are true gamblers since they recognize the risk involved and leverage that to scare away opponents. Winning at tournament online poker really requires both attitudes at different phases of the contest. One should protect a good sized chip stack and pick only they best opportunities to risk any chips while getting closer to the final table. On the other hand, always look for opportunities to steal blinds and chase away the tight rocks. In order to win, you have to multiply your chip stack several times over, and the only way to do that is to pick moments to act aggressively.
