So, you’re ready to ditch land-based casinos and play poker online instead? Great. This guide has all the information you could need.
Playing poker online is a popular hobby throughout the US. Some people even play online poker as a full-time career, which sounds crazy, but this is the case.
There’s a lot to like about playing poker online, even if you’re someone with little poker or gambling experience.
As a friendly helping hand, here are 5 things you need to know before playing poker online.
A Real Money Poker Site is Key
Before you get started, you need to use an online poker real money website. Without one, you won’t be able to play poker online – it’s that simple.
Joining a poker site is usually a simple process. You’ll need to provide:
- Your real name
- Your address
- Your preferred banking method
In addition to this, there will be a few other minor details to fill out.
After completing all of this, you’ll be ready to start playing some poker.
Gameplay is More Fast-Paced
Compared to real-life poker, online poker is a lot more fast-paced. This is because of the computer AI, which can deal virtual cards much faster than a human dealer ever could.
Although the fast-paced gameplay might feel a little alien at first, you will soon adapt to it. After this happens, most people decide that they prefer the fast-paced gameplay, as it allows more efficiency.
To keep up with the fast gameplay, it’s recommended you use a larger screen, such as one on a gaming tablet.
There Are Different Variations of Online Poker
Online poker comes in various shapes and forms. The good news is that you have total freedom to play any variation of poker that you like (providing that you use a website or app that offers it).
One of the most popular types of online poker is the Texas Hold’Em variation of the game.
In addition to this, there’s the classic Video Poker, which is essentially the ‘slot machine version’ of poker.
Make sure to try the different variations out so that you can get a genuine feel for which you like the best.
You Might Be Able to Get a Welcome Bonus
After joining an online casino or poker website, you might be able to get your hands on a welcome bonus.
An example of this would be “Deposit $10 and get your $40 free welcome bonus”.
After doing this, you can then use your welcome bonus as wager money for your first game of online poker.
You Must Be Above the Legal Gambling Age
Finally, make sure you’re above the legal gambling age in your state before playing poker online.
In the US, you typically must be aged 21 or over to gamble online. However, some states, such as California, allow you to gamble online at 18.
Also, make sure to gamble responsibly and only wager money that you’re financially comfortable with. If you’re a beginner, play low-stakes poker games, so that you can settle in and gradually find your groove.
