What is a call in poker?

In the world of poker, the term ‘call call’ is used to describe the action of a player who makes two bets in one move: calling the first bet and then calling the other player’s raise. This means that the player first shows interest in the current bet, then, seeing a raise from the opponent, also decides to go for the raise and make a call with a new, higher bet.

Typically, a call-call occurs in the following situation: a player is in a position where he can initially make a call (most often because his value is relatively low), and then, when another player raises, this player also decides to follow this raise and pay a large amount of money to see the next street or card. There are several reasons for this action. Some players choose this move to see the next card on the flop, even if the stakes are higher, hoping to catch the right card to improve their hand. Others may play poker with a call as part of their bluffing strategy to confuse their opponents.

It is important to remember that such an expensive decision in poker requires a double investment, and the player must be sure that this decision is justified in the current situation and corresponds to his game strategy. Beginner poker players should start by playing with small bets. Having studied the rating of online casinos, you can choose a suitable platform for beginners.

Read also: What is a Button in Poker.

What factors to consider before making a cold call

Before deciding to make a call, it is important to consider the following factors:

• “Cold calling is most effective when you are in Late Position, i.e. sitting later at the table and seeing the actions of other players. This gives you more information and control over the course of the hand.
• The state of the opponents. You need to assess how strong your opponents are. If they often bet and bluff, such a move can be an effective way to win the pot, especially in Late Position.
• Not all hands are suitable for a call. Usually, these are strong hands or hands with the potential to improve on the following streets. For example, pairs, connectors (cards of the same suit), or high cards.
• When playing in an online casino with live dealers, it is important to consider the betting structure and the size of the blinds. Sometimes such a move can be expensive, so you should be prepared for it.
• Set goals. It is necessary to understand what goals you are trying to achieve by using such a move. Do you want to win the pot, get an extra raise, or just use the position to control the hand?

It’s also important to remember that a call can be ineffective if made thoughtlessly. Keep an eye on the developments on the table, analyse your hands and strategy, and use this poker move when it really makes sense and fits your plans for the hand.

Pros and cons of cold calling in poker

Cold call is an interesting and tactically important action that can have its positive and negative sides. The positive aspects of this move include the following.

• The ability to hide the strength of your hand is one of the main advantages of a cold call. Opponents may be confused about the correct assessment of your hand, which can give you an advantage.
• A cold call can be a relatively inexpensive way to see the flop, especially if you have medium-high cards that can improve on the board.
• If no one else is calling your call, you’ll be in a good position to play postflop. This gives you more control over the hand and more opportunities to bet or check-raise.
• You can also use this move to bluff, confusing inexperienced opponents who make a move after you. This can lead them to make mistakes and get into the sweat with relatively weak hands.

It may seem that a call is a complete benefit, but this is not the case, as it has quite significant disadvantages.

• Possibility of multi-way betting. When the majority of players are calling, it can reduce your chances of winning, especially if you have an average hand.
• A call-call does not allow you to take the pot preflop, you will have to raise something postflop or bluff successfully to win the hand.
• The players behind you may decide to call your hand with high equity (the chance of winning), which they would have probably folded if you had 3-bet. This can mean that you are facing stronger hands than you expected.

We can say that cold calling is a powerful tool that can be used depending on the hand, position, and playing style. It can bring benefits, but it can also entail certain risks, so it is important to know when and how to use it.

Read also: What is a blank in poker.

Favourable conditions for cold calling

It’s not enough to know what a call is for a successful game. You need to understand when to use cold calling. Here are the optimal circumstances when you should use this technique.

• On a set-value bet if you are sure that your opponent has a set. Experienced poker players recommend not to call after a 3-bet, as it can lead to a squeeze. However, a three-bet (BB) raise may be a more reasonable decision.
• To provoke your opponent to bluff. This works especially well at an aggressive table, where you can call with strong hands, such as pairs of kings (K-K) or aces (A-A), and then 4-bet (raise).
• If you have notes (information) about your opponent that indicates that they often call on the flop (betting after the three face cards are revealed) and check-pass on the turn (the fourth face card), you may want to raise. It also depends on the structure of the board (the cards on the table).
• Against aggressive players who often barrel (bet) in bluffs, you can call with hands like Broadway (cards with different suits like J-10) in order to get paired and beat their bluffs.

Taking these factors into account, you can determine when to use a cold call and when it is better to refrain from the tactic. It is important to remember that the choice of tactics should depend on the assessment of the situation, the opponent’s playing style and your own cards. In conclusion, if you were looking for an online casino with a minimum deposit of ten USD, please follow this link. Read more information about the gambling industry in our blog.

FAQ: What is a call call in poker?