Satellites, rebuys and add-ons explained
A satellite is a tournament where the prize is a seat (ticket) in a bigger, more expensive event, so you can win a $100 or $1,000 entry for a few dollars. Rebuy and re-entry tournaments let you buy back in after losing your chips, and an add-on lets you buy extra chips at the end of the rebuy period.
How satellites work
Section titled “How satellites work”- The prize pool is divided into seats of equal value, for example 10 seats to a $100 tournament.
- Everyone who finishes in a seat place wins the same ticket, whether they finish first or tenth.
- Some sites run step systems: win a cheap step to move up to the next one, all the way to a big event or a live festival.
Satellite strategy in one sentence
Section titled “Satellite strategy in one sentence”Your goal is to survive, not to win all the chips. Near the end, a player with enough chips for a seat should often fold even strong hands rather than risk busting. This is the extreme case of ICM.
Rebuy and re-entry
Section titled “Rebuy and re-entry”- Rebuy: during the rebuy period you can buy more chips when your stack is at or below the starting stack.
- Re-entry: after busting you can register again with a fresh stack, usually until late registration closes.
- Both increase the prize pool, but they also make it easy to spend several buy-ins. Decide your maximum number of entries before you start.
Add-on
Section titled “Add-on”At the end of the rebuy period, many tournaments offer one add-on: a fixed number of extra chips for a set price. It is usually good value if your stack is average or short.
Freezeout
Section titled “Freezeout”A freezeout is the opposite: one entry only. When your chips are gone, you’re out. It’s the simplest and cheapest format for beginners.
- Satellites are a cheap way to play big events, including live festivals.
- Count rebuys and add-ons as part of your real buy-in when you follow bankroll rules.
- Read the tournament lobby: rebuy rules, add-on size and seat values differ between events.
What is a satellite in poker?
Section titled “What is a satellite in poker?”A tournament where the prize is a ticket to a bigger tournament instead of cash.
What is the difference between rebuy and re-entry?
Section titled “What is the difference between rebuy and re-entry?”A rebuy adds chips to your existing stack; a re-entry gives you a new seat with a fresh stack after you bust.
Should I take the add-on?
Section titled “Should I take the add-on?”Usually yes if your stack is average or short, because the extra chips are good value.
Why do players fold strong hands at the end of satellites?
Section titled “Why do players fold strong hands at the end of satellites?”Because every seat is worth the same, so a player with enough chips gains nothing by risking elimination.