I don't have any advice for your troubles with no-limit tournies, but I do have some about what games to get for your PS2
GTA: San Andreas - If you haven't had the pleasure of playing the new-age GTA games pick up this instant classic. It is not as addictive as the origonal, but just as entertaining.
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2005 - In my opinion this is the best golf game made to date. You don't have to like golf to like this game...the graphics are in ridiculous and this game should keep you off tilt better than any other
.
Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater - Just play this game for five minutes and you'll be hooked.
Need For Speed Underground 2 - This is basically just to hold us over for Gran Turismo 4...still a good game though.
Madden 2005 - Name says it all
Games to pass on: High Rollers Casino, World Championship Poker, Ace Combat 5
There you have it, the best games on PS2 right now in my opinion...and you don't feel like a nerd as much.