Separate the variant from the format
Hold'em and Omaha describe how cards are dealt and hands are ranked. Cash games, single-table tournaments and multi-table tournaments describe how play is organized. The same variant can use different formats. The label “Hold'em” alone does not tell you whether it is a tournament or whether blinds remain fixed.
Cash games: follow the table conditions
Cash tables generally specify the blinds and permitted buy-in range. Joining, adding chips, leaving and settling chips must follow the platform's rules. Check rake, minimum participation requirements and any leaving restrictions separately.
One table's settings do not establish the rules for every table on the platform. Before joining, find the official fees and restrictions for that specific table.
Tournaments: follow the schedule and structure
Tournaments generally specify entry requirements, starting chips and a blind-level schedule. Blinds may increase over time, and losing all your chips is handled according to the format. Tournament chips are used for play; their displayed values should not be treated as immediately redeemable cash.
A freezeout generally does not permit re-entry after elimination. Re-entry, Rebuy and Add-on are different arrangements, available only within the times and conditions expressly stated in the rules.
How to read tournament terms
Start with eligibility and total fees. Then check the start time and registration window, followed by starting chips, blind levels, breaks and elimination rules. Finally, review prizes, cancellation, disconnection and dispute terms.
Do not fill gaps by assuming another event's rules apply. Confirm the details, register through the official platform entry and check the final confirmation status.
Rules may vary between platforms, tables and events. This guide explains common rules; available games, eligibility and dispute procedures are determined by the platform's official announcements.
Keep exploring
This guide was independently compiled in Chinese. The following sources let you verify the rules.
Official Poker TDA rules(new window)