Bluffs and Online Poker

George | September 19, 2008

Reading opponents in online poker can be tricky due to the lack of physical interaction. However, you can still read your opponents and develop your own table image effectively. Let’s explore what table image means and how to capitalize on it.

Understanding Table Image

Your table image is how other players perceive you based on your actions at the table. It can influence how they play against you. There are generally three types of players: loose, maniac, and rock.

Loose, maniac, or rock?

Some reads are straightforward. For example, if a player plays every hand to the river and loses a lot, it’s clear they are a loose player. More subtle reads take time. Consider the following example:

Johnny has been playing 2/4 NL Hold’em for an hour. He notices a player named Xmode who takes forever on every call, raise, or fold. Xmode doesn’t type in the chat box and sometimes even times out, folding hands. Is Xmode a terrible player? Maybe, maybe not. He could have a slow Internet connection or be reading a starting hand value chart. Alternatively, he could be a 75-year-old solid player who only plays the nuts.

Identifying player types

To determine whether Xmode is a bad player, a rock, or a slow player, do some digging:

Connection strength: Check the player’s connection strength if the site displays it. A low connection strength might explain slow play.
Chat box interaction: Start a polite conversation in the chat box. Ask about something neutral like the weather. If he responds, his connection is probably fine.
Hand history: Review his hand history to see what hands he’s shown down. This will help you understand his play style.
Online resources: Use sites like SharkScope to check his stats. A long-term loser with a negative ROI is a prime target.

Recognizing solid players

A player who makes quick decisions but rarely plays a hand is likely a rock. Avoid them unless you have a strong hand. If a player consistently plays to the river but only shows down the best hands, they are probably solid. Steer clear if possible.

Managing your table image

To manipulate your table image, use the information above in reverse. Regardless of your connection speed, pretend to have issues and mention it in the chat. Make quick calls and raises when bluffing, or only when you have the nuts. Switch gears often and make subtle changes to your game to send different messages. By perfecting this skill, you can change your table image from table to table as you continue to play online poker.

Conclusion

Reading players’ actions in online poker requires observation and strategic thinking. By understanding table image and identifying player types, you can make more informed decisions and improve your game. Additionally, managing your own table image can help you exploit your opponents’ perceptions and increase your chances of success.