What Does Hitchhiker Mean in Poker?
A hitchhiker in poker refers to a player who joins an ongoing game, often bringing additional chips to the table, potentially altering the dynamics of the game. For those playing online poker, this term might also represent new players entering digital tables.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Hitchhiker
You might hear this term used when discussing how a new player entering a game can influence the current table dynamics or when strategizing about how to adapt to new players with fresh stacks.
In-Game Example
Imagine you’re in a cash game where the table has been playing for several hours. A new player, the hitchhiker, joins and buys in for the maximum stack. Their presence might change the game pace, as existing players now adjust their strategy to accommodate the new stack size and possible playing style.
Strategy / Tips
Best Practice: Stay observant and adapt your strategy to the hitchhiker’s play style, leveraging any tendencies they exhibit early on.
Common Mistake: Ignoring the impact of a hitchhiker’s new chips and failing to adjust your play, potentially missing out on exploiting their unfamiliarity with the table dynamics.
Pro Tips: Use the hitchhiker’s arrival as an opportunity to reset your image at the table and consider their potential impact on your range and aggression.
Differences playing over the table vs online: In live games, hitchhikers might bring physical tells or table talk that can be advantageous. Online, focus on statistical data and playing patterns, as physical presence is absent.
Alternative names
While ‘hitchhiker’ is not commonly replaced by other terms, it may be colloquially referred to as a ‘newcomer’ or simply a ‘new player’.
FAQs
Q: How should I adjust my strategy when a hitchhiker joins the game?
A: Assess their playing style quickly. If they are loose, you may benefit from tightening your range. If they are tight, consider exploiting this by bluffing more.
