In the ever-evolving world of online poker, technology has brought both innovation and controversy. One of the most debated advancements in recent years is the use of Real-Time Assistance (RTA). But what exactly is RTA, how does it work, and why is it such a hot topic in the poker community?
What Is Real-Time Assistance (RTA)?
Real-Time Assistance refers to the use of software or tools that provide a poker player with strategic advice while they are actively playing hands. Unlike traditional tools that are used for study and review (such as solvers or tracking software), RTA tools are used in real time, giving players the optimal moves to make during a live online poker session.
This means that players can rely on advanced software to suggest whether to fold, call, raise, or bet — all based on game theory optimal (GTO) principles or pre-loaded strategy charts.
How Does RTA Work?
RTA tools work by analyzing the current game state — including your position, stack size, the board cards, and your hand — and then comparing it to a massive database of pre-solved scenarios. These scenarios are usually generated using powerful solvers like PioSolver or GTO+.
Here’s a breakdown of how it typically works:
- Input Detection: The software either reads the game state automatically from the poker client (via screen reading or memory reading) or requires manual input.
- Data Matching: Once the software knows the current hand situation, it searches its database for the closest matching scenario.
- Recommendation: The tool then displays the optimal action based on GTO strategy — often in a color-coded chart or direct instruction (e.g., “raise 50% of the pot”).
- Real-Time Updates: As the hand progresses (e.g., flop to turn), the tool continues to update recommendations accordingly.
Some RTA programs are built into custom poker overlays, while others function as separate windows or browser-based tools. Advanced RTA setups may even use AI to interpret more complex scenarios.
Why Is RTA Controversial?
RTA is considered cheating by most major poker sites and is strictly prohibited. Here’s why:
- Unfair Advantage: RTA removes the need for in-the-moment decision-making, which is a core part of poker skill. Players using RTA are essentially playing like machines with near-perfect strategy.
- Unnatural Win Rates: Users of RTA often show abnormal profitability over large samples, making it difficult for recreational players and even skilled pros to compete.
- Game Integrity Threat: If RTA use became widespread, it could ruin the integrity and appeal of online poker. No one wants to play a game that feels rigged or dominated by bots and software.
Detection and Prevention
Poker sites are investing heavily in anti-RTA detection systems. These include:
- Monitoring unusual playing patterns
- Detecting screen-reading behavior or running unauthorized processes
- Spotting impossible decision speeds or ultra-low error rates
Players caught using RTA tools may face permanent bans, confiscation of funds, and reputational damage.
Is All Software Banned?
Not all poker tools are illegal. There’s a big difference between study tools (used outside of real-time play) and RTA. For example:
✅ Allowed:
- HUDs (in some poker rooms)
- Equity calculators
- Solvers for post-game analysis
❌ Not allowed:
- Tools that provide decisions during hands
- Solvers running in real time
- Any software that mimics or replaces human decision-making live
Conclusion
Real-Time Assistance is a powerful — yet dangerous — tool in the world of online poker. While it represents a leap in technology, its real-time use during gameplay crosses an ethical and regulatory line. Understanding what RTA is and how it works can help you stay informed, play fair, and protect the integrity of the game we all love.
