Poker Online takes the game that was once only played in smoky bars and casinos to the internet where anyone with a computer can play from the comfort of their own home. You can play at any level from free to the highest stakes imaginable. You can play for real money or just for fun and you can even win satellite entries into some of the worlds best live tournaments.
Online poker sites offer players the chance to play against sophisticated “virtual” opponents in cash games (full ring, six-max and heads up) and multi-table tournaments. They also offer a variety of special formats such as Sit & Go’s which are single table tournaments and Spin & Go’s which have players spinning a wheel before they get started and can pay out large prizes.
While the basic rules of poker remain the same online poker requires a different set of skills since you can’t read physical tells and your opponents aren’t in front of you. Many of the same tactics used to gain an edge in live poker can be employed on the virtual tables such as sizing up your opponents betting tendencies and trying to determine whether they are bluffing.
Another way to improve your online poker game is to sign up for an account with an online poker site and participate in their strategy forum where members post hand histories and discuss concepts and theories. Several top online poker sites offer forums that can be joined for free and some even include some basic coaching classes and hand quizzes. For example the Mechanics of Poker website offers a free membership plan that includes 20 hand quizzes and 10 advanced coaching classes.
Signing up for an online poker site is usually quick and simple. You’ll be asked to enter your personal details and choose a username and password. Once you have an account you’ll be able to deposit funds and start playing. Most sites offer a variety of banking methods including credit cards, eWallets and bank transfers. Some even accept Bitcoin.
Most of the top online poker sites have multiple tables where you can play a variety of different games. While Texas Hold’em is still the most popular game you can also find Omaha, Seven Card Stud and Crazy Pineapple tables. Most sites allow players to open up to two tables at a time and play both for cash and for tournament entries.
Rakeback
Online poker rooms make their money by taking a percentage of every pot which is called the rake. In order to attract new players some sites return some of this rake back to their players which is known as rakeback. This can add up to a significant amount of extra money for players who play often and for long periods of time.
Online poker is becoming more and more popular as people become familiar with the concept of playing from home. As more states jump through the regulatory hoops to make online poker legal in their jurisdictions there will be even more opportunities to enjoy this unique card game.