Mastering the starting hand selection is one of the foundational skills in becoming a successful poker player on MPL Poker. Not all hands are created equal, and knowing which ones to play consistently can greatly increase your win rate. Whether you’re grinding tournaments or cash games, these top 5 hands are almost always worth playing preflop.
Pocket Aces (A♠ A♥)
Known as the best starting hand in Texas Hold’em, pocket Aces dominate almost every other hand. On MPL Poker, where action can be fast and aggressive, holding Aces allows you to confidently build big pots and trap looser players.
-
Play them aggressively preflop.
-
Consider slow-playing only when heads-up against passive players.
-
Watch out for tricky boards with coordinated suits or low connectors.
Pocket Kings (K♠ K♦)
Often referred to as “cowboys,” pocket Kings are another premium hand. While they can be vulnerable to Aces, they still dominate a wide range of hands.
-
Open strongly or 3-bet preflop.
-
Evaluate post-flop action carefully, especially if an Ace appears.
-
Don’t be afraid to fold if you face extreme aggression and suspect Aces.
Ace-King Suited (A♣ K♣)
Also known as “Big Slick,” this hand is powerful due to its straight and flush potential, especially when suited. It plays well both preflop and post-flop.
-
Suitable for aggressive preflop play.
-
Be mindful of missed flops—don’t overcommit without improvement.
-
Ideal for late position or re-raising light opponents.
Pocket Queens (Q♠ Q♥)
Pocket Queens are strong, but more vulnerable than Aces or Kings. MPL Poker games often see loose calls, so you must protect your hand.
-
Play them with confidence preflop.
-
Watch for overcards like Aces or Kings post-flop.
-
Fold if you sense you’re beat, but don’t fear taking the initiative.
Jack-Ten Suited (J♦ T♦)
While not a premium pair, Jack-Ten suited offers immense versatility. It’s great for hitting straights, flushes, and disguised two-pairs.
-
Best played in position or multiway pots.
-
Avoid committing too much if you miss the flop.
-
Ideal for trapping over-aggressive players.
FAQ
1. Should I always play these top 5 hands on MPL Poker regardless of position?
While these hands are strong, position still matters. Hands like J-T suited are better in late position, whereas Aces and Kings are good from any position.
2. What if I consistently lose with strong hands like Aces or Kings?
Losing occasionally with premium hands is normal. Focus on post-flop play, board texture, and reading your opponents’ actions to adjust accordingly.
3. Are these hands also good in tournaments on MPL Poker?
Yes, these top 5 hands are excellent in both cash games and tournaments. However, stack sizes, blind levels, and table dynamics can influence how aggressively you should play them.
