See my answer here:
https://forumserver.twoplustwo.com/s...82&postcount=2
The concept that you should only 3-bet or fold from these other positions is a simplification - a myth. If you give the solver the option to call these spots - it will usually develop a calling range.
That doesn't mean that you
need to have cold-calls here. 3-bet/fold from most positions is a perfectly playable strategy that loses very little EV. But it's not the
only strategy.
If you prefer to practice a strategy that employs the 3b/fold simplification, then I'd recommend switching over to the Simple Solutions:
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Quote:
Why does GTOW recommend flatting opens from positions outside of the BTN and BB?
Reverse your question.
Why wouldn't you have a cold-calling range? After all, you have a calling range in most other spots in poker.
Check out the MTT solutions. You'll note that there is a significant cold-calling range everywhere. For example, check out how wide HJ calls this LJ open:
You can infer from this that removing the rake and adding an ante has incentivized you to start cold-calling from every position.
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Let's try another example. Here I'm showing the chipEV (rakeless) 6max cash solutions. There are NO antes in this one. LJ opens, action on HJ: Again, you'll see that HJ has plenty of cold-calls. Same with every other seat.
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The main takeaway here is that cold-calling is a natural part of the GTO strategy.
Having cold calls allows you to play a wider range of hands profitably, polarize your 3-betting range, and the opener's uncapped range shields you from the threat of being squeezed too often.
Obviously, it's unnecessary in most low-stake cash games, as solvers have shown that simplifying to 3-bet or fold is a fine simplification, but that's all it is - a simplification.