Tournament Tips for Playing for Survival vs. Chip Accumulation in Satellites David Parker URL has been copied successfully! The key to balancing survival and accumulation is recognizing when chip preservation outweighs chip gain In satellite tournaments, every decision should be shaped by the unique payout structure. Unlike standard events, where accumulating chips is the primary goal, satellites reward survival above all else. Knowing when to shift between these two mindsets is crucial, especially as the bubble approaches and chip values change dramatically. Early in a satellite, chip accumulation matters more. With deep stacks and low pressure, you can take calculated risks to grow your stack while the field is still large. This does not mean playing recklessly, but it does mean seeking +EV spots rather than avoiding confrontation. Building a workable stack early gives you room to tighten up later when survival becomes the priority. As the middle stages arrive, your strategy should begin adjusting. Pay attention to stack sizes at your table and in the broader field. Medium stacks should avoid marginal confrontations against big stacks who can eliminate them. Meanwhile, short stacks must stay alert for good shove spots but avoid desperation punts when other players are likely to bust before them. Near the bubble, survival becomes the primary objective for most players. If you have a healthy stack, your job is to avoid significant risk. Big stacks can pressure medium stacks with well-timed raises, taking advantage of their fear of elimination. Medium stacks should resist unnecessary battles and fold hands that would be standard plays in normal tournaments. For short stacks, bubble strategy requires discipline. Sometimes the correct move is to wait if other players are about to bust; other times, you must take your fate into your own hands based on blinds and stack dynamics. Understanding these thresholds prevents costly errors.