Poker term
Overlay
The gap between a tournament's guaranteed prize pool and what the entries actually generated. The organiser pays the difference, so a big overlay is the best value a tournament player can find.
Frequently asked questions
What is an overlay in poker?
The amount an organiser must add when entries fall short of a guaranteed prize pool. If a €50,000 guarantee draws €42,000 in entries, the €8,000 difference is overlay.
Is an overlay good for players?
Yes. It is extra money in the prize pool that nobody paid for, so every entrant's expected value rises. Hunting overlays is a genuine edge, though organisers notice and adjust guarantees.