When it comes to the different types of SNGs that are available based on how many players are seated at each table, there are two options. There are ten-handed games, which are what the majority of online users participate in, and there are also six-handed matches, which are typically populated by those looking for a faster session and less competition.
A common misconception though is that six-handed games are better for players new to SNGs since there aren’t as many opponents to overcome, but overall the opposite is true. Six-handed single table tournaments require a better mastery over hand selection and positional strategy, all things that should be learnt during ten-handed games.
The Profit Percentages
It’s no secret that you need to finish in the money more often than not during SNGs in order to be a profitable player, but in six-handed games the margin of error is even smaller. For ten-handed SNGs you need to end up in the money approximately 35-40% of the time to break even in the long run. However, six-handed competitors need to finish in the money in at least 50% of their tournaments if they are to break even, meaning that in order to post consistent gains six-handed players can only leave the table empty-handed around three out of ten games.
Preparing for Six-handed Games
Making the transition from ten-handed to six-handed isn’t really all that different from making any other kind of change in poker, such as moving up a buy-in level. First you need to make sure you’re dominating in your current format (ten-handed $20 SNGs, for example), and then bump down a level ($10 buy-in) when you move to six-handed play. This way the learning curve associated with making the necessary adjustments to your game won’t hit your wallet as hard as if you stuck with your standard entry fee level. If you find that it’s just not working out for you though, feel free to go back to ten-handed games so you can rebuild your bankroll before trying any more experimentation.
Chris
- Chris Laquinta is a magazine editor, content specialist and poker fanatic with 10+ years writing experience and over 1,500 published articles. Chris is a naitive of Southern California, where he spent his entire life learning gaming concepts and theories from relatives that had been former professional gamblers. He currently resides in Torrance, CA where he works as a professional content writer and part-time SNG professional.
