Good versus great versus world class players
Hi all,
So, what differentiates these three player types? Is it mainly winrate? Beating tough games? Stakes? Understanding of poker theory? All of the above? Some ideas:
Good -
Solid winner at low and midstakes live, or smaller online games, but struggles in bigger, tougher games. Understands basics of ranges and pot odds, has decent hand reading abilities.
Great -
see good player, but also beats bigger games 25/50 and similar live and 100NL online. Excellent hand reading abilities and plays their and their opponent's range, not their hand.
World class -
see great player, but also beats games 200/400+ live and similar and bigger online games.
What techniques do these players employ on a regular basis that others, like mediocre pros or recreations players, may not?
For example, they probably know when to bluff and when not to, use position to their advantage, have good starting hand selection and deviate from optimal exploitatively when possible against the right opponents.
(Disclaimer: my experience online is limited as I play almost exclusively live.)
I welcome more discussion!
Thanks,
DT
2 Replies
It would go something like this.
Good:
Suspecting your opponent is bluffing the river but folding to find a better spot.
Great:
Suspecting your opponent is bluffing the river and calling him down.
World class:
Knowing your opponent is bluffing the river and raising him.
Good: Mike Matusow
Great: Phil Hellmuth
World-class: Doug Lee
Serious answer:
Good players understand ranges as well as important concepts such as polarization and denying equity. They are capable of adapting their strategy based on their opponent. They rarely or never tilt.
Great players have a thorough understanding of all important concepts in poker and know how to apply them. They study a lot. They are very good at hand reading. Great players never tilt or play worse than their B- game.
World-class players are the best great players, I guess.
