Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

I got tired of getting my head beat in playing limit poker to clear the latest Party bonus and decided to take a break and try the single table NL step tournament thing. After 3 tries at step 1, I got into step 2 and bounced up and down the different steps for a while; 2-> 3-> 2-> 3-> 3-> 4-> 5.

I'm thrilled, of course, but never played a SnG larger than $50, so the $1000 level all of a sudden looks a bit scary (somehow I put it out of my mind at the $200 and $500 level).

Anyone have some experience with these and some helpful thoughts? How likely am I to see some of the same folks if I data mine the step 4 & 5 tables for a while before taking the plunge?

thanks,

Shauna

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

Shauana, I have been there - here is my advice.

Watch the players for 3-4 hours if you can to pick up on their play style. You WILL with a bare minimum of 2-3 regulars at that level.

Also, remember there are others at the table in the same spot as you, they will be major TAG's - make sure you keep an eye out for them and play them appropriately.

You will have some PURE MANIACS, they will be easy to spot and go out early, pick on 'em while you can.

Other than that, looking back Step #2 was tougher competition than that level, I just made a couple stupid moves that cost me a bubble. Keep your A Game and you will be O.K. - I would love to root you on, make a post when you are about to play [img]/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

Oh yeah, put simply think more level 3 than level 4 as far as the overall game goes... Witha mix of level 1 as there is actual PLAY involved here, be ready for manipulatiion and some people who know how to mix it up well....

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

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Oh yeah, put simply think more level 3 than level 4 as far as the overall game goes... Witha mix of level 1

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what the f*ck does that mean?

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Other than that, looking back Step #2 was tougher competition than that level

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You obviously have no idea what you are talking about

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

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Oh yeah, put simply think more level 3 than level 4 as far as the overall game goes... Witha mix of level 1

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what the f*ck does that mean?

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Do you really need to be a bitch? Could you ask without coming across the way you did? You asked for advice and I gave it - I would of explained further if you had been a little more reasonable in your reply, such as "Damn I have no idea what you mean, LOL"

You're a big girl with plenty of talent - figure it out for yourself.


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Other than that, looking back Step #2 was tougher competition than that level

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You obviously have no idea what you are talking about

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This one I will explain so you know I am not a total idiot and WAS trying to help ...

Step #2 is FULL of tight players who have dropped from the Step #3 or Step #4 (and yes ALOT of those folks mainly Step 3 buyin direct) level amongst those who DEARLY value their $50 buyin or they are SO HAPPY they made it past step #1. This leads to a VERY tight game and out of allt he step tourneys, step #2 averages 10 minutes longer per game I have played past ANY of the length of the other levels (yes 4 included).

I didn't include Step #5 as i have only made it that far two times, WAY to small of a sample size. Lighten up Shauna, I never knew you to have a "Holier than thou" attitude and didn't expect it out of you......

I'll make sure i don't respond to "ANY" of your posts in the future though as not to misconstrue the fact I may be just posting useless information you miscomprehended.

Edited portion : So you understand, step #2 you have to be in top 20% to advance and not make the tourney a waste of your time, step #5 - Top 40% ... I hope this clarifies at least someof the pointes I "WAS" trying to get across.

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

My advice is to take your freeroll and play a limit step 5. The game is softer. Good luck, see you there.

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

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I got tired of getting my head beat in playing limit poker to clear the latest Party bonus and decided to take a break and try the single table NL step tournament thing. After 3 tries at step 1, I got into step 2 and bounced up and down the different steps for a while; 2-> 3-> 2-> 3-> 3-> 4-> 5.

I'm thrilled, of course, but never played a SnG larger than $50, so the $1000 level all of a sudden looks a bit scary (somehow I put it out of my mind at the $200 and $500 level).

Anyone have some experience with these and some helpful thoughts? How likely am I to see some of the same folks if I data mine the step 4 & 5 tables for a while before taking the plunge?

thanks,

Shauna

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Shuana, my aplogies!! I am a stupid ass who didn't look at the name of the poster.. Saw bouncing breasts and thought female, LOL ...

If you have any questions please feel free to PM Me and I will elaborate further on my experiences if you think it may help. As you could see by my post, I didn't think that was the type of post I would see from you - thank god it was some clueless idiot [img]/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

I responded to your post with such disdain because the suggestion that competition in Step 2 is tougher than the comptetion in Step 4 or 5 is ridiculous. Since you admitted that your sample size of step 5 tournaments is small, then why did you even make the comment? After 500 posts you should know that the suggestion that a higher buyin tournament is easier than a lower buyin tournament on the same site is ludicrous.

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

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I responded to your post with such disdain because the suggestion that competition in Step 2 is tougher than the comptetion in Step 4 or 5 is ridiculous. Since you admitted that your sample size of step 5 tournaments is small, then why did you even make the comment? After 500 posts you should know that the suggestion that a higher buyin tournament is easier than a lower buyin tournament on the same site is ludicrous.

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Re-Read everything I posted with an unbiased view and post when you have spent more time in forumns besides the OT forumn where the majority of your posts appear to be.

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

I played four Step 5's today, two seconds and two OTM's. These things are filled with real players that buyin to this level for the $1000 AND multitable them. I've been DM them for about 10 days this time. I'm up good money at this level, but I know this level, even with good game selection, is -EV for me. I just use it to cash in my earn from the lower two levels.

The two lower levels have many less full-time pros AND the few fish that have some how, against all odds, have swan up stream from the lower levels.

Best advice, watch some $500 and when a couple of live ones win watch for them to sit down in the few minutes after it's over.

Best of luck.

MS Sunshine

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

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Re-Read everything I posted with an unbiased view and post when you have spent more time in forumns besides the OT forumn where the majority of your posts appear to be.

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What you wrote was so well written I don't see why I should have to read it again. Like this gem:

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Step #2 is FULL of tight players who have dropped from the Step #3 or Step #4 (and yes ALOT of those folks mainly Step 3 buyin direct) level amongst those who DEARLY value their $50 buyin or they are SO HAPPY they made it past step #1. This leads to a VERY tight game and out of allt he step tourneys, step #2 averages 10 minutes longer per game I have played past ANY of the length of the other levels (yes 4 included).


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Your first sentence, if it can even be called a sentence, is incoherent. The fact that Step 2 tournaments last 10 minutes longer than other tournaments, if this is even true, means nothing. The level of difficulty of the Steps is 5>4>3>2>1.

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

to be honest with the structure of step 4's an arguement can be made it's not the second toughest.

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

MS, I know it is beneath you but please do me a favor ? For the sake of argument and general knowledge, although why should I share? Maybe I should be quiet?

Anyways - you are a respected poster here... I would be interested in seeing you play 5 tourneys at each level and getting your take to see if I am on target on my readings.

Not that it matters what slick thinks, it is for the forumn. The fact that he said

"The level of difficulty of the Steps is 5>4>3>2>1. "

Shows me enough about this guy. He thinks EVERY 15/30 game will be weaker than the 30/60, 40/80, 50/100, and 100/200 live. Which plain and simple - IS NOT TRUE. Anyone who plays B&M at ALL or ever has knows this. Some of the easier money is at the higher levels. Draws gamblers... This is besides the point, we are speaking on-line here.

I would like any other posters here to chime in. In the meantime I am off to bed up a grand (weekends kick ASS)

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

honestly, I don't believe that the order would be 5-4-3-2-1 simply because of the number of players who make it to the next level. Anyone who tells you that level 4 is harder than level 1 or 2 or 3 will have a tough case to make IMO. Sure it is a higher level, but you have to think that over 80% of those people in level 4 have bought in at a lower level, so the quality of players will be similar. Anytime you can advance to the next level by beating just over half the field, your odds are greater. Level 5 is definately the hardest, followed by levels 2 and 1 respectively. Then Level 3 and finally the easiest step, level 4.

Let's face it, these step tourneys are 70% luck on the road to level 5, then it is all about avoiding the one killer bad beat. I have watched many level 5 tourneys and I can assure you that there are not too many maniacs. Everyone there has a good understanding of the game and ultimately the person who can avoid the KK vs AK loss (generally speaking) will have an optimum chance at cashing.

As for advice for the original poster. You are playing in a step 5 tourney for the first time (and most likely one of your last). This is comparable to putting your whole bankroll on the line at 10/20 hoping you can avoid the bad beat. Nobody can walk into step 5 for the first time with assurance that they will cash, because playing 1 tournament is all about short term luck. Players like Gigabet and PurpleLungs are players who can make step 5 +EV for a simple reason... they are able to compete in many many tournaments.

My advice, just go to step 5 with an open mind and try your best to get lucky, because that's about all you can hope for.

cheers

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

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honestly, I don't believe that the order would be 5-4-3-2-1 simply because of the number of players who make it to the next level. Anyone who tells you that level 4 is harder than level 1 or 2 or 3 will have a tough case to make IMO. Sure it is a higher level, but you have to think that over 80% of those people in level 4 have bought in at a lower level, so the quality of players will be similar. Anytime you can advance to the next level by beating just over half the field, your odds are greater. Level 5 is definately the hardest, followed by levels 2 and 1 respectively. Then Level 3 and finally the easiest step, level 4.

Let's face it, these step tourneys are 70% luck on the road to level 5, then it is all about avoiding the one killer bad beat. I have watched many level 5 tourneys and I can assure you that there are not too many maniacs. Everyone there has a good understanding of the game and ultimately the person who can avoid the KK vs AK loss (generally speaking) will have an optimum chance at cashing.

As for advice for the original poster. You are playing in a step 5 tourney for the first time (and most likely one of your last). This is comparable to putting your whole bankroll on the line at 10/20 hoping you can avoid the bad beat. Nobody can walk into step 5 for the first time with assurance that they will cash, because playing 1 tournament is all about short term luck. Players like Gigabet and PurpleLungs are players who can make step 5 +EV for a simple reason... they are able to compete in many many tournaments.

My advice, just go to step 5 with an open mind and try your best to get lucky, because that's about all you can hope for.

cheers

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Wackity, a wild guess it will nto be AAmaz0n's last time at this step [img]/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img] Limit would be a great idea for her though as I never even thought about it. I haven't seen a step 5 limit game myself yet but I am sure they go down. And as posted, I am sure they are much weaker.

It would sem to me the majority of the people playing that particular table 'sepped' their way up and see the regulats at the NL Tables and are intimidated so they decided to try the limit version - and you would feel much more in place.

My guess is that you have to wait quite a while for that game to form but it would be MUCH MORE +EV For you as you play LHE for the most part and would pry tear such a game up a hell of alot easier than the NLHE counterpart.

I'd also guess you took a stab at the NL Table and didn't have much lck if you haven't re'd yet. No reason to feel you haven't made a accomplishment. Seriously working your way up the steps is tougher than playing the final game IMHO.

Next Time I have a step 5 entry I will hold off for one day even if I feel like I should hop in a game at the last minute 'because it feels right' and make sure I have a couple hours of playing under my belt and hit it up the next day totally refreshed.

Edited : My 'spellun' still sucks lol !! When is this board going to add a spell checker [img]/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img]

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

Some people get terrified around the bubble. If you see that take advantage! They just want the $2,400 4th prize (2 table is the one I played.

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

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Shows me enough about this guy. He thinks EVERY 15/30 game will be weaker than the 30/60, 40/80, 50/100, and 100/200 live. Which plain and simple - IS NOT TRUE.

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When did I say that? Never. I agree that between different establishments (BM vs online, Vegas vs. AC, casino vs. casino, etc) there can be higher levels of play at lower limits because different places attract different clientele. However, I do maintain that on an online site the higher limits will be harder than the lower limits on average.

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

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Shows me enough about this guy. He thinks EVERY 15/30 game will be weaker than the 30/60, 40/80, 50/100, and 100/200 live. Which plain and simple - IS NOT TRUE.

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When did I say that? Never. I agree that between different establishments (BM vs online, Vegas vs. AC, casino vs. casino, etc) there can be higher levels of play at lower limits because different places attract different clientele. However, I do maintain that on an online site the higher limits will be harder than the lower limits on average.

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I played 20/40 Limit O8 and bouht in with $500 just to see what the field was like last night as I saw weak play viewing the tables. I ran up to $1800 before losing 700 back short to a maniac who played like hell but got lucky.

The 20.40 Limit O8 game was MUCH MUCH MUCH worse than the PLO8 $100 even - SO I DISAGREE. Regrdless it doesn't matter and is all about the opinion of individuals and airing your opinion on this board is what it's all about.

Sorry if I came across harsh last night, hit a X-Mas party and had like 6 Long Island Ice Teas and Ihaven't drank since New YEar's Eve - needless to sya I had a helluva buzz going and I'm hella hung over today [img]/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

Let's just let the bad blood go, and get back to business. I shouldn't of been posting drunk regardless of whehther I am close to be right, totally right, or way off base regardless.

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

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Sorry if I came across harsh last night, hit a X-Mas party and had like 6 Long Island Ice Teas and Ihaven't drank since New YEar's Eve - needless to sya I had a helluva buzz going and I'm hella hung over today

Let's just let the bad blood go, and get back to business. I shouldn't of been posting drunk regardless of whehther I am close to be right, totally right, or way off base regardless.



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With the way this section came out, you must still be drunk. [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

X-Mas party?!?!?! Has it been going on for over a month now?

Take a few aspirin and drink lots of H2O, maybe catch some shut eye....I heard it's good for the English Comp. (I know you mentioned spell checker in an earlier post) [img]/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img]

Husker

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

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Sorry if I came across harsh last night, hit a X-Mas party and had like 6 Long Island Ice Teas and Ihaven't drank since New YEar's Eve - needless to sya I had a helluva buzz going and I'm hella hung over today

Let's just let the bad blood go, and get back to business. I shouldn't of been posting drunk regardless of whehther I am close to be right, totally right, or way off base regardless.



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With the way this section came out, you must still be drunk. [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

X-Mas party?!?!?! Has it been going on for over a month now?

Take a few aspirin and drink lots of H2O, maybe catch some shut eye....I heard it's good for the English Comp. (I know you mentioned spell checker in an earlier post) [img]/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img]

Husker

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LOL Husker, I actually took a vicodin in the morning cause I have a few for my Carpel Tunnel and toothache (have to get a root canal done). On top of that I took 5 Ibuprofen, pain starting to go away but I do still feel slightly drunk actually LOL - just not coordinated yet [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

It was a X-Mas party with 'friends' not family or anything.. We are all so busy around the holidays and it got delayed twice cause one person couldn't make it either of the other times we had it set grrrr... LOL

HAd no plans on drinking but than I was offered a Long Island Ice Tea and I haven't had one in literally 2 years - had to drink it [img]/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img] Boy did it go down smooth - the TGIF premix actually tasted good whereas it tasted like hell a couple years ago..

Needless to say I picked up a bottle for $6.50 on the way home from the party [img]/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img] NO MORE DRINKING FOR ME for a while again, I now remember what hangovers feel like!!

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

Hang in there bro....I've had a few broken teeth. Believe me I know and feel your pain. Pre op pain can be a beatch. [img]/images/graemlins/frown.gif[/img]

I'm currently in the same boat....been swallowing 800 mg. Ibuprofen like they're tic tacs.

Maybe I need to go the L.I.T. route too. [img]/images/graemlins/smirk.gif[/img]

Husker

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

I haven't played the $10, but I have half dozen freerolls for this level(isn't that a PITA), but I can give you my take on the other levels. As a general rule as the buyin increase so does the level of play to be expected from your opponents. Sorry.

The only possible exception MIGHT be level four. The main reason is there is so little real play to this level it is difficult for the semi-fish to play it real poorly. There is no end game blind stealing for the big stacks. Just double plus a little and don't play much from there. Most of the regulars know this.

MS Sunshine

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

Thanks to everyone for their advice, I appreciate your help.

I looked at the limit games a bit, but I really don't play limit SnG, so I decided to stick with what I'm comfortable with. I don't feel as in control in limit; more like I'm at the mercy of the cards.

This is certainly not going to be the last of these that I play. I put in $36 and about 6 hours to get to Step 5, and I'll get back again. It's a shot at a very large ROI.

Sadly, this one didn't work out. I played very few hands and was card dead most of the time. The small stacks kept making bad calls but sucking out and it took longer than usual to bust folks out, and became very much a crap shoot when we were down to 6; most folks had stacks of about 3x blinds at that point.

The only plays I really made were a few limps when the blinds were small with pairs that I laid down when raised. I finally caught KK in the SB and reraised; the original raiser called with A8 (???) and caught an A on the flop but luckily a K came as well. The case K on the turn made me feel a lot safer and I was 2nd in chips for a while.

In the middle stages, I raised with AQ and laid down to an all in reraise that covered me, and then had nothing to play after that. I couldn't even steal because folks always seemed to be raising in front of me when I was on the button and the cutoff.

I eventually had to decide if I should go all in in the BB with J7o from an MP raise, and instead waited to catch 72o in the SB [img]/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img] I finally got blinded off with 42o and went out 5th; the bubble really sucks. [img]/images/graemlins/frown.gif[/img]

thanks again, I'll keep working.

Shauna

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

I have played a lot of these at all levels and my results have been much better at step 3/4 than 1/2, thus I now start at step 3. Starting at step 3, I'm averaging about $500 per step 5 entry.

Re: Got to Step 5, any words of wisdom?
 

IMO the 2 table difficulty is something like Step 5>3>2>4>1. The 1 tables are much more of a crapshoot which makes their difficulty more linear; the 2's allow much more play and are very very soft.

In both cases, datamining and analyzing the play of every regular will make your life a hell of a lot easier.