In online poker, timing is everything. Whether you’re making a crucial bluff or folding a marginal hand, you don’t have all day to decide — especially on fast-paced platforms like mpl-poker.com. That’s where game timers come in.

MPL Poker uses a smart timer system to ensure fair and efficient gameplay. Understanding how it works will help you avoid penalties and play with more confidence.

How the Game Timer Works

Each player is given a fixed amount of time to act when it’s their turn at the table. This decision timer appears as a countdown clock near your avatar and starts ticking the moment the action reaches you.

Standard Action Time

• In most formats, you get 10–15 seconds to act (fold, call, raise).
• If you don’t act within that window, your hand is automatically folded.
• The timer resets every new hand.

This fast-paced structure keeps the game moving smoothly — especially in cash games and turbo tournaments.

What Is a Timebank?

MPL Poker also features a Timebank system in some formats. This is extra time you can use when facing tough decisions.

Key Features:

• Usually around 10–30 seconds, depending on the game type
• Automatically activates when your standard timer runs out
• You can only use it a limited number of times per game or tournament

Timebanks are especially useful on the turn and river, where decisions carry higher stakes.

Auto-Fold and Disconnect Protection

If your device lags, crashes, or your internet drops, MPL’s timer system kicks in:

• You’ll be given a few seconds of grace (if applicable)
• The game may automatically fold your hand to keep the table running
• If you’re disconnected for multiple hands, you may be removed from the table in tournaments

To avoid this, always play with a stable connection.

Timer Differences: Cash Games vs Tournaments

Format	Standard Time	Timebank	Special Rules
Cash Games	10–15 sec	Yes (short)	Auto-fold if inactive
Tournaments	10–20 sec	Yes (varies)	May increase on final table
Freerolls	10 sec	No or limited	Fastest-paced timer

Note: Exact times may vary slightly based on updates or tournament type.

Strategic Use of the Timer

When to Act Quickly:

• Preflop with weak hands
• Against tight opponents who don’t call often
• In low-stakes games where speed matters more than perfection

When to Take Your Time:

• Facing a large river bet
• Considering an all-in bluff
• Deciding between value-betting or checking

Mastering the timer not only avoids timeouts — it improves your focus and psychological control at the table.