The meta-game in poker refers to the strategic dimension beyond immediate EV decisions in each individual hand. It includes managing table image, establishing false patterns, exploiting information gathered across sessions, and manipulating opponents’ perceptions of your playing style. An advanced meta-game player may make a play that loses money short-term to earn much more in subsequent hands by altering how opponents perceive them. Meta-game is especially relevant in long tournaments and regular cash games where you repeatedly face the same opponents.