Multi table tournaments (MTTs) on PokerStars with several players competing to win the right to compete in a bigger poker tournament are known as Super satellite tournaments. Each super satellite tournament typically allows several players to advance. As a result, one should adjust their strategy to compensate for this flat prize structure, especially when approaching the bubble.
Ideally, you will want to amass a substantial chip stack early on at PokerStars.com, and coast your way into the money. In your normal poker tournaments, you play to win, not to simply cash. In super satellites, however, the person finishing in 25th place receives the same prize as the person with the chip lead. Thus, the objective is to break through the bubble without taking on unnecessary risk
Early and Middle Round Super Satellite Strategy
Early on, you may play your typical tournament strategy – ideally extracting maximum value after the flop. When the blinds become substantial in relation to the average stack, begin turning on the pressure by raising preflop and stealing. However, keep in mind you are not playing to win, so one is wise to not steal too often, as the goal is to cash, not to come in first place. In the event you become short stacked, use the power of your short stack and move all-in preflop with your normal range of hands, as you will look to double up or go home.
Playing the Bubble in Super Satellite MTTs
As you near the bubble on UBpoker, the correct strategy in a super satellite MTT changes drastically from the optimal strategy in a normal MTT. Again, with the objective being to simply cash, you are not looking to win the entire tournament. As a result, you want to focus on staying above the average stack. In addition to remaining ahead of the average stack, you want to stay ahead of the money. If the top 25 players cash, you want to ensure that you are as close to “in the money” as possible. Avoid making marginal decisions that will drop you below average or out of the money if you lose
By focusing on cashing, as opposed to winning, you will find yourself a step ahead of the competition when playing in super satellite multi table poker tournaments.