All poker tournaments have an early, middle and late stage. However, many players simply play each level the same way. As a general rule of thumb, you should play the late stages of the tournament much more aggressively than the early stages. A big reason for this is that the blinds are lower at the start. There is no need to take big risks to win extra chips. Also, if you can create the image of a tight player, you will have more respect when you open up your game (play more hands in position) in later stages.All poker tournaments have an early, middle and late stage. However, many players simply play each level the same way. As a general rule of thumb, you should play the late stages of the tournament much more aggressively than the early stages. A big reason for this is that the blinds are lower at the start. There is no need to take big risks to win extra chips. Also, if you can create the image of a tight player, you will have more respect when you open up your game (play more hands in position) in later stages.