Poker is one of the most popular card games in the world, and it has been around for centuries. It has evolved from a casual game to one involving high-stakes wins and losses. This may make it seem like an intimidating game for someone who is just starting out. While most people learn to play poker on poker tables, the pandemic has made it challenging to do so safely. This has given way to the rapid acceleration of online poker. The online gaming market, which includes games like poker, has grown to be worth $72 billion in 2021 with a compound annual growth rate of 12%. This has also allowed more playing platforms to shoot to popularity. With so many opportunities to play online poker, now is the perfect time to get started. Here’s why you should and how to do it:

The Benefits of Online Poker

The most obvious advantage of playing poker online is the convenience it gives players. There’s no need to head to an actual poker room when you’ve got one as close as your nearest device. Online poker can also be played on multiple gadgets, whether you’re using a desktop, laptop, or mobile phone. Players don’t have to wait in line or for the specific game they want; online poker has these readily available at all times. All you need is an internet connection. COVID-19 was also a significant factor in the resurgence of online poker. With people staying home for longer periods and spending money on fewer things, there wasn’t much else to do but turn to online entertainment. There are even free games for beginners who may just want to test the waters.

There are also some technical advantages that come with an online setting for poker. One benefit players have is hiding their poker tells. These are unconscious behaviors such as talking, hand movements, and even shifting in your seat that can reveal clues about how you are betting. Online poker has also made multi-table possible, which was impossible to do in live poker. By playing online, you can join more than one poker table at once. This is a huge advantage because you can win in some games even if you lose in others.

How You Can Get Started in Online Poker

Getting started with online poker is relatively easy. All you need are the right tools and a basic understanding of the game.

Secure a device

These days, nearly everybody has a device they can use to connect to the internet. Choose the most appropriate for you, whether you want to play poker on your phone or your computer. It may be worth looking into which online poker platforms can be played across all your devices as well.

Research available sites

Things to look for when choosing an online poker site include welcome bonuses, verified authentic payment methods, and the right features. It’s important to choose a site where you feel most comfortable. It’s also essential that the platform you choose is compatible with the device you’re using.

Brush up on your poker basics

Before going into any poker rooms, it’s best to familiarize yourself with poker basics. This is especially important if you’re going into more advanced games with experienced players. Make sure that you have a good knowledge of the most common poker terms such as the “big blind,” “call,” “raise,” “check,” and “fold.” Understanding what each of these terms means is essential when it comes to strategy, and they are applicable in all games of poker, whether they’re high-stakes tournaments or friendly games with little to no amount of money being put on the line.

Learn game strategies

Part of what will make a game of poker enjoyable for you is how well you know the game. Poker has changed over the years, and players have gotten a lot better. It should be normal for you to study poker strategy instead of just diving in and hoping for the best. Note that online poker is faster than traditional poker because there are no hold-ups like shuffling and dealing cards, so make sure to get your practice in. Online poker may even need a special skill set, such as reading moves instead of body language. New players should especially take that time to study basics through videos and articles to understand the game better.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced live poker player, trying the game online can be a fun and exciting experience.