Add-On
Add-On
A tournament option allowing players to purchase additional chips at a fixed time, typically at the end of the rebuy period or during a break, often at a discounted rate compared to the initial buy-in.
What is Add-On?
An Add-On is a tournament feature that allows players to buy extra chips at a predetermined point, usually after the rebuy period ends (e.g., at the first break). Unlike a rebuy, which may be taken when a player is below a certain stack size, an add-on is typically available to all players regardless of their stack. It is a one-time purchase and often provides better value than the initial buy-in, such as receiving more chips for the same price.
Purpose and Strategy
Add-ons are designed to increase the prize pool and give players a chance to bolster their stacks as the tournament progresses. For players with small stacks, an add-on can be crucial to survive longer and remain competitive. For large stacks, it can further consolidate their lead. However, since the add-on is optional, players must weigh the cost against their bankroll and tournament equity. Some tournaments include the add-on fee in the initial buy-in, meaning all players automatically get the added chips, while in others it is optional.
Differences from Rebuy
A rebuy allows a player to purchase a new stack (typically equal to the starting stack) when their chips fall below a certain threshold, often within a designated rebuy period. An add-on occurs at a fixed time, is available to everyone, and usually offers a better chip-to-cost ratio. Many tournaments have both: a rebuy period during the first few levels, followed by an add-on opportunity at the end of that period.
Example Scenario
In a $50 tournament with a $50 add-on for 10,000 extra chips (starting stack is 10,000 chips for $50), a player who takes the add-on doubles their stack for the same price as the initial buy-in. This discounted rate incentivizes participation.
Typical Usage
- Online and live tournaments commonly offer add-ons, especially in low-stakes or rebuy events.
- Some tournaments are billed as "add-on only" (no rebuys), while others have both.
- In certain formats, the add-on is mandatory (included in the entry fee), making all players start the second phase with equal stacks.