Odds, equity and theory
GTO (Game Theory Optimal) in poker
Definition
A balanced strategy that cannot be exploited by any opponent strategy, derived from game theory.
A GTO strategy mixes value bets and bluffs in the right proportions so that the opponent is indifferent between calling and folding. It does not try to read the opponent; it simply cannot lose in the long run against any counter-strategy.
Pure GTO is a baseline: in practice players use solvers to learn it and then deviate to exploit opponents' mistakes.
Related terms
- Exploitative playDeviating from the balanced strategy to take advantage of a specific opponent's mistakes.
- RangeThe full set of hands a player could have in a given situation, instead of one specific hand.
- Minimum defence frequency (MDF)The share of your range you must continue with against a bet so that the bettor's bluffs cannot profit automatically.
- BluffA bet or raise made with a weak hand to make better hands fold.