Poker is growing in popularity in the U.S. with 15 million people playing online poker for real money due to the many benefits of the online version of the popular card game. Unlike traditional poker, you can play at any time and in any location, as long as there’s a stable internet connection. There’s also a wide selection of poker games that players can easily switch between (or play at the same time), such as Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and online tournaments. For those familiar with the physical game and looking to start playing online poker here are some tips.
Choose a safe platform
As most online poker games involve real money the platforms you use must be legitimate and secure. There are a few ways to know if a site is safe: it has the correct licensing for your region, it supports mainstream paying options, and it verifies your identity.
Legitimate online platforms are approved by your state or region’s regulator. Their logo and information should be found at the bottom of each page. Online platforms also support major paying options like PayPal, Mastercard, and VISA. Lastly, it should verify your name, age, and social security number. As mentioned in our previous article ‘Automated Age Checks to Enhance Verification System’, this ensures that involved parties are of legal age to participate in such activities.
Create an account
Once you’ve chosen a platform, the next step is to make an account. This allows you to track your game history and it serves as a way to manage your payment methods.
Ensure that you pick a username that your happy with because this often cannot be changed. Aside from this, you’ll be asked for other personal information like your address. The next step is to deposit your money, and this is also where you can claim sign-up bonuses like free play money. Choose a payment method and deposit an amount you are comfortable with. Those new to online poker would be wise to start small, between $50-$200, and play low limit games first to get comfortable with the online version of the game.
Start with Texas Hold’em
Unlike physical casinos, online platforms have every type of poker available and it can be a little overwhelming. If you are not completely new to poker it is likely that you already know how to play Texas Hold’em as it is the best-known and most popular form of poker. For those new to any form of poker it is the easiest version to learn. Each player gets two cards while the table gets five community cards. Active players share these five cards, starting with the flop, the turn, and the river. At showdown, players get to make the best five-card hand from their hole cards and community cards. Once you have mastered Texas Hold’em you can discover other variants like Razz and Triple Draw Poker.
Take advantage of online tools
One of the biggest benefits of online poker is that you can use programs to help you out while playing. Some platforms, like 888poker, have a note-taking system that lets you make notes on your opponents. You can mark other players with a color so you can categorize them by playing style and learn how to play against them. Other tools, like PokerTracker4, allow you to record and study hands to get a better understanding of how you play. This will help those starting online poker quickly improve over time.
If you are starting online poker as a complete newbie or as a fan of the physical game we hope the above tips help.