Ring Games and Satellites are continually spawned. So as soon as 2 players have registered to play a Ring Game or 10 players are at a Satellite, the Game begins.

Tournaments are listed in the Lobby 24 hours before their start time (click on it and you will see the registration details). Most tournaments are open for registration 1 hour before their start time. But tournament registration times can vary, so be sure to check.

Once you've registered for a tournament, your spot is reserved- you're free to play in other games. As soon as the tournament begins, you are randomly assigned to and seated at a table- even if you're not online.