Maniac

Also known as: Maniacs

A hyper-aggressive, reckless player who bets and raises almost anything, with no real plan.

A maniac is a hyper-aggressive player who bets, raises and re-raises with almost any holding — far beyond what the cards justify. The aggression isn't strategic; there's no balance and no real plan, just constant action.

A maniac is not a skilled LAG. The LAG's aggression is deliberate and built on fold equity; the maniac just sprays chips and will eventually go broke against anyone who adapts.

How to adjust:

• Call lighter. Your calling and value-betting thresholds drop — let the maniac bluff into you and pay off your strong hands.
• Trap, don't bluff. Bluffing a maniac is pointless; he won't fold. Make hands and let him barrel.
• Stay patient. Variance spikes, so don't tilt when he sucks out — the EV is hugely in your favour over time.

A maniac is the over-aggressive cousin of the calling station and the fish: different leak, same gift to the table.