PokerArena Launches: GTO Wizard Introduces a HUSNG App Focused on Heads-Up Training

In July 2025, GTO Wizard officially launched PokerArena, a new app designed around heads-up Sit & Go (HUSNG) games. The platform targets a niche within the online poker ecosystem: players interested in quick, accessible matches that provide feedback based on game-theory optimal (GTO) principles.

While it offers an engaging environment and useful insights for hobby players, the game’s shallow stack structure and fast blind increases limit its strategic depth, making it better suited for recreational use than advanced study.

PokerArena matches consist of fast HUSNG duels, where each hand is recorded and evaluated using GTO Wizard’s solver technology. Player performance is assessed not only by results but also by how closely their decisions align with optimal play.

Progress through the seasonal leaderboard is based on this performance evaluation, not just on win rates. While the rating system adds a layer of competitiveness, it serves more as a motivational tool than a rigorous measurement of technical ability.

The platform operates on a monthly season structure. At the start of each new season, rankings reset, and new avatars and cosmetic rewards are introduced. Players who participated during the pre-season were awarded exclusive visual items.

A core feature of PokerArena is its direct integration with GTO Wizard’s analysis environment. After a match, players can immediately review hands and decision points within GTO Wizard — no export or third-party tools needed. This creates a seamless feedback loop between play and learning.

PokerArena offers three main ways to play:

• Competitive Mode: Ranked, GTO-scored HUSNG matches with seasonal leaderboards
• Casual Mode: Unranked games for relaxed play or low-pressure practice
• Play with Friends: Custom tables for up to 9 players, accessible via shared links with no registration required

All modes are completely free to play, with cross-platform functionality between browser and iOS devices. Progress syncs automatically across devices.

PokerArena is best suited for recreational players or those looking to engage with GTO concepts in a lighter, more dynamic setting. While the post-game analysis provides helpful learning opportunities, the format’s limited stack depth and accelerated blind structure mean that it is not ideal for deep strategic training. As such, PokerArena works well as a supplemental tool for practice and fun, rather than as a primary study environment for high-level heads-up players.

All core features — gameplay, scoring, and basic analysis — are available for free. Players who wish to access more advanced breakdowns and full solver functionality can upgrade to GTO Wizard’s Premium or Elite tiers, though this is entirely optional.