Poker is the game that is perhaps the most recognizable when it comes to casinos. While it may not achieve the same level of popularity as slots, it certainly is hugely popular, both at online and land-based casinos. The game has endured the test of centuries, and remains a staple in the gambling scene. It is played by professionals and amateurs alike, and is enjoyed across the globe.
In the early 21st century, thanks to the advancements made in computer and information technology, gamblers were introduced to online poker. Since then, many have moved away from land-based establishments, and prefer to play their favorite gambling game online. In this article, we are going to explain everything you need to know about how you too can start playing online poker from the comfort of your own home.
What a Good Place for a Beginner to Start Playing Poker
First, you will want to know where you can start playing the game. Of course, if you have a preference for face-to-face gambling, you can always visit your local casino, and try your hand at the tables or at the video poker machines. However, if you are looking for something a lot more convenient and beginner-friendly, you can start your journey at the online poker rooms that permeate the internet today.
Online poker is a great way for those who are curious about the game, but have never played it, to test their skills and start their journey. Online poker websites will often feature a tutorial game, where you can get the hang of the game. Many online casinos will also have some sort of bonus, that will help new players and make the game a lot more engaging. So, if you are looking to start playing poker, we suggest online poker rooms as the best place to start.
What Items Do You Need to Play Poker?
Many new players might come to this article with the question “How do I start?” Poker rooms online can be separated into two distinct versions. Both of these versions require different tools and items that new players must obtain in order to start playing.
Downloaded Poker Rooms
Downloaded poker rooms, as the name suggests, are online poker rooms that work by downloading. The way it works is, that the player has to download a program install the game, and then start playing. The game will then connect you to a room of other people and you can start playing.
Direct Play Online
The other variant, is that you can play the game directly on the website hosting the game. While this is the simpler choice, many still prefer downloading the game on their desktop. However, we still have not gotten into the tools you might need to start playing.
A Good Hardware
Whether you are downloading the game, or playing it online, having a good, trustworthy hardware is an absolute necessity. Often times, experienced players at online poker rooms will have a setup that can handle at least two or three widescreen monitors, all of which have a different poker room open. If you are new to the game, you will want to have at least one, competent, widescreen monitor, that can handle a poker room.
Many players also enjoy having a gaming mouse and keyboard plugged in. You don’t necessarily need a high-end, expensive mouse / keyboard. Just make sure you have a decent set of accessories that are comfortable for you and will not hold you back.
A Good Chair
This might go without saying, but a poker match or tournament can last quite a while. Meaning, you will need to get comfortable when playing the game. Before you start playing, make sure that you have gotten yourself a decent, comfortable gaming chair, where you can sit and relax while pondering your next move.
A Mobile Phone That Can Handle Apps
As mobile phones become widely available, more and more people are moving to mobile gaming. And online poker rooms are doing their best to keep up. It is for this reason that many of them have released app version of their websites. If you are someone who would prefer to play poker on their phone, rather than on the PC, make sure you get yourself a high-quality phone, that can handle the gaming power needed to keep up with the competition.
Who are the Key Players in U.S. Online Poker?
Online poker has had a presence in the United States of America since the late 1990s and early 2000s. It was in 2003 that Chris Moneymaker, one of the most popular poker players in the world today, changed the public’s perception of online gambling, when he qualified for the title of “world champion” by making a name for himself at the online poker rooms.
Today, there are only a few states where online poker is outright legal. These include Nevada, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and most recently, Michigan. These states have seen quite a bit of profit from their introduction of online poker, prompting quite a few states to introduce bills with the goal of making the practice legal.
For those of you who live in the U.S. states where poker online is legal, you will want to take a look at casinos like BetOnline, Wild Casino, and Bovada. These are some of the best and most popular online poker rooms on the American gambling market.
Final Word
Online poker is among the most popular gambling games that you can play today. While it pales in comparison to the popularity of slots, it is still hugely popular. Its various forms are played by gamblers from all over the world.
New players, who are just starting out, can start their journey by securing the aforementioned tools and items necessary to start gaming. And of course, most importantly, you must make sure that the practice is safe and legal in your area.
For more gambling news and reviews visit OUSC.