Online Poker for Fun and Enjoyment

Online poker is a growing industry thanks to how many people love playing poker. The popularity of this game has exploded worldwide, and there are many online poker rooms for players. There are real money tables and play money tables. Some players love the thrill of building a bankroll, while other players find the game itself relaxing. But these aren't exclusive of each other- players can play online for fun and for profit.

Pick a Site You Enjoy

When your goal is to play online poker not just for profit, but for fun, the most important thing is to find a site you enjoy. There are plenty of reputable online poker rooms to choose from. Don't settle for one that isn't the most comfortable for you. The best option for players who place a high value on poker as a a fun past time is likely a poker room that offers free or play money tables. This is sometimes referred to as 'practice mode'. This allows players to be able to relax and enjoy, especially if their bankroll is on the small side. A poker site that offers a wide selection of micro stake tables and freerolls are also great options, low budget ways to have fun while still being able to build up your bankroll.

Be Honest About Your Skill Level

The tilt is dangerous to your bankroll. Be honest with yourself about your skill level. It is perfectly acceptable to be a new player and know that your skills and strategies are not as developed as more advanced players. This honesty can help you learn what to practice, what strategy guides to read, and more importantly, when to walk away from a table. Even the most laid back player who is only at the tables for a good time will get frustrated with constant losses. Getting in over your head isn't fun, so choose your tables and tournaments with care.

Don't Have Huge Expectations

Television, Movies, and even the televised poker tournaments like the World Poker Tour can make playing poker easy. The relaxed banter, the easy aggression, the nonchalant calls of thousands of dollars seem simple when done by the professionals. There are many reviews and guides that will tell you how easy and simple it is to win big money. There are some very big pots out there to win, and tournaments with million dollar pay tables are very tempting. But don't fall for the “easy way out” traps. You'll find scams promising big wins quickly. There are also downloadable programs that promise to make playing even easier. There is no easy way to get better at poker. And if something seems too good to be true, it's probably a scam.

Build Your Skills and Strategies

Reading books and websites about good poker strategy is a good start. But when it comes to bettering your skills the only way to do that is to play. This is where finding a poker site that offers practice mode or play money tables is your best bet. Play is generally looser are these tables, but it's a good way to learn the basics. On top of this you can keep an eye out for other player's tells. The more time you spend at a table paying attention the better you're going to get. Freerolls, especially the ones exclusive to new players are a great place to get started playing with real money. The reason the play money tables are looser is that many people tighten up when they're playing with their hard earned money. It is a difficult habit to break and can cost you more money than you save if other players know you will fold when pressed.

Take Breaks

Playing poker for a profit can be stressful. A few bad beats, maybe there are some very aggressive or loudmouthed players at your table. Perhaps a tournament isn't progressing as well as you like, or you got kicked out early. Take a break, walk away. Go get a cup of coffee, or even just call it a day. If you're playing poker for profit the first thing that most guides will tell you is to be patient. Don't let yourself get on tilt, as you will make bad calls that will cost you money. They will insist that you stay focused and emotionless. But if you're playing for fun, too, the frustration doesn't make the game enjoyable. Walk away, and don't chase your losses. You may be frustrated at the loss of money, but throwing more money in will only make you more annoyed the next day when the original annoyance has worn off and you realize your poor money management calls.

By: Peter Smith