Why play ring games?
A ring game is any poker game that is not a tournament. There are many advantages and disadvantages to playing ring games as compared to tournaments.
Disclaimer: I play both ring games and SnGs, but I worte this article to help out people who don't know which to play or are having tournament troubles.Pros::
~Flexible schedule: you can join a game at almost any time and can leave whenever you want. Good for people with hectic schedules.
~Table size options: caters to your strengths. If you're good heads-up, play at a heads-up table. If you're good shorthanded, play at a 6-max table. If you're good at a full table, play at a full table. You can stay away from your weaknesses and focus on your strengths
~Low-stakes games: if you've got a small bankroll, no problem! Play at the NL .01/.02 tables. This is much cheaper than the smallest SnG at Stars ($5 + $.50).
~Rakeback options: you can earn some of the rake the site/casino takes from you back through a few different programs.
Cons:
~Smaller return on investment: you will earn much more playing tournaments than ring games. If you make three big bets an hour playing limit hold 'em, that's considered superb play. If you win a $5 SnG, you make almost $40 in profit for a short period of play.
~May not focus on your weaknesses: you may not become proficient heads-up playing at a full table, and vice versa. This will hurt if you ever want to play a tournament.
~Not as glamorous: as MLB once said, "Chicks dig the long ball,, not the fastball.". The big tournament winners get a lot of exposure and fame. Ring players may toil in animosity. :)
In summary, ring games can be advantageous for some. You might want to give it a shot if you aren't succeeding in tournies.
*If you have any pros/cons to add or comments, please say something.
