Online poker is a popular card game played over the internet for real money. It is a game that rewards actual skill unlike slots or the lottery, and it can be thrilling and rewarding to win. Many players choose to play online because it is less intimidating than a live poker game, and they can play as much or as little as they want from the comfort of their own homes. Online poker is also convenient and fast, with hands being dealt much quicker than in a live casino or cardroom.
The best online poker sites have a host of helpful learning and educational resources that help newcomers master the game. These include everything from detailed rulebooks to full A-Z lists of poker terminology. The top poker sites also offer a range of bonuses and promotions. These can be as simple as a free play money bonus to match your first deposit or as complex as a series of tournament tickets. Bonuses are usually triggered by earning frequent player points so you should try to earn as many as possible during your first few weeks on the site.
Once you have a grasp of the fundamentals of the game, it is time to move on to more advanced learning materials. A good place to start is with the WSOP Academy courses. These are comprehensive and free and will get you up to speed on the basics of the game. They will also introduce you to some of the more advanced concepts that can make your poker game better, such as balance and frequency.
Aside from the free WSOP Academy courses, there are many other great poker books and blogs that will give you the tools to improve your game. One of my favorites is Matt Janda’s ‘PokerSnowie’, which takes a GTO approach to poker and helps players to understand things like EV estimation and frequency. Another great book is Mark Seidman’s ‘Easy Game’, which lays out a comprehensive framework for thinking about poker from a 10,000-foot perspective.
There are currently a number of states where regulated online poker is available. These include New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Nevada. Michigan recently legalized online poker and launched in November 2021, while West Virginia passed a bill that will allow the game in 2023. New York is in the process of reviewing its iGaming laws and may legalize poker in the future.
Whether you prefer to play in a casino, cardroom, or on an online poker room, the rules of the game are the same. In fact, most people find playing online poker to be easier than playing at a live game because you don’t have to worry about other players’ expressions or body language. In addition, online poker is accessible at any time of day and in many different languages. Despite these advantages, some players prefer to play in person because it can be more challenging and exciting. It is a personal choice that depends on your preference and skill level.