Solvers Revolutionize Poker: 7 Key Strategies That Changed the Game

The YT channel of Doug Polk's School has been releasing a podcast called Level Up, focusing on poker lessons for experienced players. In one of the episodes, Mike Brady asked players about the most important concepts and mechanics introduced by solvers.

The concept of initiative in a hand is considered a myth. Players now understand that it's about equity advantage. For example, if the button opens and you defend the BB with a flop of K82, you check not because the button has the initiative, but because your range is much weaker. Leading the flop can be a valid play in many situations. Several years ago, leading the flop was often seen as a sign of a weak player, but solvers have shown that it can be a strong move.

Solvers have popularized the use of small bets that can be even smaller and large bets that can be even larger. The efficiency of overbets has also been revealed by solvers. Now, bets of 150% or 200% of the pot on the turn and river are not uncommon. The advantage in equity and nuts determines the frequency of bets and sizings. Solvers have changed the strategy for out-of-position raisers, who now often check instead of automatically betting. Solvers have shown that blockers can have non-intuitive effects, such as reducing the effectiveness of bluffs.