Real Time Assistance

What is Real Time Assistance?

Real Time Assistance (RTA) refers to the use of external aids—such as solver software, heads-up displays (HUDs), or live coaching—while a poker hand is in progress. Unlike studying away from the table, RTA provides real-time decision support, giving users an edge over opponents who rely solely on their own knowledge and instinct. Most major online poker platforms, live tournaments, and home games forbid RTA, as it violates the spirit of fair competition.

Forms of RTA

• Solver Software: Tools like PioSolver or GTO+ that compute optimal play. Players run scenarios in real time to find the correct action.
• Heads-Up Displays (HUDs): Overlays that display opponent statistics (e.g., VPIP, PFR) directly on the table, updated as hands occur.
• Live Coaching: A stronger player watches the game via screen share and whispers advice.
• Range Visualizers: Apps that show which hands are in a player’s range based on board texture, often used during a hand.

Why RTA Is Controversial

RTA undermines the skill element of poker. It allows a weaker player to make near-perfect decisions without the underlying understanding. This creates an unfair playing field and damages the game’s integrity. In online poker, RTA is often difficult to detect, leading to a cat-and-mouse game between platforms and cheating networks. Even casual use of a HUD during a live stream or home game may be considered unethical if other players do not agree.

Detection and Consequences

Platforms employ various methods to catch RTA users:

• Pattern Analysis: Unnatural consistency in decision-making, especially in complex spots.
• Client Monitoring: Detecting third-party software running alongside the poker client.
• Manual Review: Staff reviewing hand histories of suspected players.

Penalties range from hand reversal (refunding bets) to permanent account bans and public blacklisting. In live tournaments, RTA can lead to disqualification and forfeiture of prize money.

Ethical Considerations

Poker is a game of incomplete information and human judgment. RTA erases that challenge. Even if not explicitly banned in a casual game, using RTA without disclosure is deceptive. Most players and governing bodies regard it as a serious violation. For fair play, all participants should agree on allowed aids beforehand.