ONLINE POKER

BLUFFING WITH MOUSE IN HAND

In recent years, online poker has exploded in popularity. It is estimated that between 2002 and 2003, participation increased by a whopping 900 percent. In fact, Chris moneymaker, a recent winner of the World Series of Poker, honed his skills at online tables.

There are literally dozens if not hundreds of Web sites where you can play poker (Holdem and seven card stud are the most popular varieties). In the past few years, the improved security of Web sites has made online gambling much safer. (However, as with anything on the Web, if something looks fishy, do not provide any crucial information.)
To start playing, you usually need to provide a credit card number to open an account, which you can cash out at any time and create a login name (this will be the name you use at the table). Most sits should provide some information about themselves, which you should investigate before submitting a credit card number.

Once you enter a site you will see a lobby listing various games at different betting levels. After choosing a game, you will be taken to a simulated poker table, complete with cards, chips, and other players. Most sites have a dealer that will prompt you to bet.
If you are new to online poker, most sites have tables where you can play for free. It’s a good idea to play a few practice hands at the free tables to get a sense of the pace and where to click to fold, raise, bet, etc.
Once you are ready to start playing for money, check out what games are available. Many sites offer a wealth of statistics about the various tables, including average pot size, hands, players per hour, and the average wait to get on a table.
Obviously, the biggest difference about playing online against other people is you can’t see them no need to worry about keeping a poker face. However, you should still apply all your normal poker skills to online playing. You should also observe the same rules of poker etiquette in particular, make your bets promptly.
There are also countless Web sites devoted to all things poker. For players of all skills levels, the Internet is an invaluable resource for finding about everything from rules and strategy to tournaments and casinos. Many of these sites have articles from professional poker players. For the beginning player, whether at home or online, the following sites might be useful: