Poker, the game of skill and strategy. When it comes to tournament play, there are several concepts and rules that players should remember to stay ahead of the game. In this article, we will explore some of the key aspects of tournament poker, including blind levels, tournament clock, buy-ins, re-entry tournaments, and bounty tournaments.

Blind Levels

In tournament poker, blind levels are raised throughout the tournament, with each level lasting a certain amount of time. This ensures that players can't just sit back and wait for premium hands. Players will have to loosen up a bit and adapt to the changing dynamics of the game.

Tournament Clock

The tournament clock is usually visible to all players and shows the time remaining in a certain blind level. This helps players plan their strategy and make decisions about whether to continue playing or fold.

Buy-ins

A buy-in is the amount that a player must pay to enter a tournament. Many casinos take a certain percentage of this as the "house fee" to pay dealers and run the tournament. In online poker, buy-ins are usually paid in virtual chips or currency.

Re-entry Tournaments

In re-entry tournaments, players can enter again if they get eliminated. There is usually a cutoff point where players can't re-enter. Re-entry events are popular because they help build a prize pool and allow players at least another shot at playing the event.

Bounty Tournaments

In bounty tournaments, a portion of each player's bounty is awarded to the player who knocks him out. These can be fun events and allow players to accumulate winnings throughout the tournament.

Poker Strategy

While it may seem like there are many rules to remember in poker, most players can get a general grasp of the game in a short time. However, working on strategy and opportune betting may come over time. As former WPT commentator Mike Sexton said: "The name of the game is No Limit Texas Hold'em, the game that takes a minute to learn but a lifetime to master."

Practicing Poker

One of the best ways to learn and understand the game is to actually play and practice. Zynga Poker offers the chance to make that happen right on your mobile phone. There's never been a better time to get in the game.

Missing Chips?

It is rare for chips to simply go "missing." Bad beats and losing hands are often the most common causes of chip disappearances. If you do experience missing chips, it may be due to an active poker feature that consumes a small portion of winnings from the communal pot.

Common Poker Features That Can Result in Misconceptions of Missing Chips

• Table rake: Similar to comparative online poker games, Zynga Poker institutes a small percentage table rake on cash games and tournaments. This helps keep the game economy balanced and competitive.
• Hand Strength Meter (HSM): When activated, the HSM will help gauge the strength of your poker hand. NOTE: For the time being, HSM fee is free!
• Tournament Buy-in Fee: Similar to the table rake, the tournament buy-in fee is a percentage of the pot total and helps keep the tournament environment balanced and competitive.

Who Wins? Free Chips

If you have any concerns about missing chips or would like a member of the support team to further investigate a claim, please submit a support incident.