Doyle Brunson’s Super System 2
- Book Title:Doyle Brunson’s Super System 2
- Author:Doyle Brunson
- Publication Date:2005
- Publisher:Cardoza Publishing
- Language:English
- Number of pages:688 pages
- Dimensions:7.5 x 9.2 inches
- Weight:2.5 pounds
Pokercine rating:
4.5 stars
Doyle Brunson’s Super System 2 is like the holy scripture for poker enthusiasts diving into the compelling world of high-stakes poker. Packed with wisdom that only a two-time World Series of Poker Main Event champion could impart, this tome is not merely an instructional book but a window into the mind of one of poker’s greatest players. Whether you’re a newbie trying to understand the basics or a seasoned player aiming to refine your game, Super System 2 has nuggets of wisdom for everyone. Its comprehensive approach to different styles of poker, straight from the experts in each game, makes it an invaluable resource. In today’s fast-evolving poker scene, some might argue about its relevance, but the timeless strategies and Brunson’s narrative charm keep it compelling and hugely educational. For the modern player looking to up their game, blending Super System 2’s insights with contemporary strategies could well be the recipe for poker success.
Summary of the content:
Doyle Brunson’s “Super System 2” is more than just a sequel; it’s an updated bible for poker players. The original Super System, published in 1979, revolutionized poker by introducing strategies that were once guarded by professional players. Super System 2 takes this legacy forward, incorporating modern advancements in poker and introducing strategies for newer variations of poker that have risen in popularity. This book covers a broad spectrum of poker formats, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Stud, and Triple Draw, among other games, catering to a wide audience.
One of the book’s core strengths is its assembly of expertise, with chapters written by specialists in their respective games, such as Daniel Negreanu on Triple Draw and Lyle Berman on Pot-Limit Omaha, offering readers in-depth insights into various strategies. Besides strategy, the book delves into the psychological aspects of poker, emphasizing reading opponents, the significance of betting patterns, and the art of the bluff. Brunson also shares his philosophy on ‘power poker’, advocating for an aggressive style of play that leverages psychological pressure on opponents.
Another major theme is bankroll management, a crucial aspect for anyone looking to play poker seriously or professionally. The book addresses selecting the right games, managing swings in fortune, and strategies for optimizing winnings over the long term. Super System 2 doesn’t just stop at individual game strategies; it also provides guidance on how to adapt to evolving game dynamics, recognizing and exploiting opponents’ weaknesses, and adjustments necessary for tournament play versus cash games.
To complement the rich strategic guidance, Super System 2 is infused with anecdotes from Brunson’s illustrious career, offering readers both entertainment and practical advice. These stories not only make the complex strategies more relatable but also provide a glimpse into the high-stakes world of professional poker.
“Poker is a war. People pretend it is a game.” – Doyle Brunson
Doyle Brunson
Critical analysis:
Doyle Brunson’s Super System 2, while monumental, is not without its areas of contention. A significant strength lies in its comprehensive coverage and the caliber of its contributors, each an expert in their field, offering a wealth of knowledge unparalleled in other poker guides. The book’s wide-ranging advice caters to a broad spectrum of poker players, from novices to seasoned pros, providing them strategies that span various forms of poker.
However, some of the book’s advice, particularly in sections focused on strategies that were more relevant to poker’s landscape at the time of writing, may not translate as well in today’s digital-heavy poker environment. The evolving nature of the game, especially with online platforms becoming the primary playground, could make some tactics seem outdated. Moreover, the level of complexity and depth in certain sections might overwhelm newcomers to the game.
Another point of critique is the book’s heavy reliance on anecdotal evidence and personal philosophy. While this adds charm and readability, it might not satisfy readers looking for a more analytical or data-driven approach to poker strategy. Nonetheless, the lessons on psychology, bankroll management, and power play are timeless, and the narrative style in which Brunson and co-authors present these concepts makes the complex world of poker accessible and deeply fascinating.
What you will learn:
Super System 2 serves as a comprehensive guide into the multifaceted world of poker, offering readers invaluable insights into not just playing the game, but mastering it. Readers will learn the foundational strategies of various poker games, including but not limited to Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Seven-Card Stud. The book delves into the finer nuances of each game, from the basic rules to advanced strategies tailored for each variant, providing a rounded education on the subject.
Moreover, the book imparts wisdom on the psychological aspects of poker, teaching players how to read opponents and use this knowledge to their advantage. This includes understanding tells, exploiting betting patterns, and mastering the art of the bluff, a critical skill in poker’s psychological warfare. Power poker, a concept heavily advocated by Brunson, is another significant theme, emphasizing an aggressive playing style that capitalizes on psychological pressure.
Bankroll management is another critical area covered in Super System 2, guiding players on how to sustain their poker career financially. It offers strategies for minimizing losses and maximizing wins, selecting the right games, and managing the inevitable variance that comes with poker. In addition, readers will learn the importance of adjusting strategies between cash games and tournaments, each requiring a different approach to be successful.
Why you should read it:
For anyone serious about elevating their poker game, Doyle Brunson’s Super System 2 is indispensable. It’s not just a book; it’s a mentorship from some of the greatest minds in poker. Whether you’re a novice looking to understand the basics or a seasoned pro aiming to refine your strategy, Super System 2 offers a treasure trove of wisdom. The book equips players with the tools and knowledge to navigate the complexity of various poker games while also instilling a deeper understanding of the psychological warfare intrinsic to poker. Reading Super System 2 is an investment in your poker education, providing you with the insights and strategies necessary to take your game to the next level.
Conclusion:
Doyle Brunson’s Super System 2 is a monumental contribution to poker literature, offering a depth of knowledge and insight that is rare to find in a single volume. Its comprehensive coverage of various forms of poker, combined with the expert insights from some of the game’s best players, makes it an invaluable resource. While some strategies may seem less relevant in today’s fast-evolving poker scene, the foundational concepts, psychological insights, and strategic wisdom it imparts remain timeless. For players at any level looking to deepen their understanding of poker, Super System 2 is a must-read, a classic that continues to hold its value in the ever-changing world of poker.
