As someone new to online poker, getting into it can be a bit daunting, given that your own money is at stake and there are experienced players out there. Remember that even the best online poker players had to start somewhere, learning to play well takes dedication and a certain amount of patience.
This helpful guide will give you an overview of everything they need to know about getting started:
Playing on regulated poker websites
In the United Kingdom, online poker is very well regulated and all sites operating in the country must hold a valid licence from the UK Gambling Commission. If playing on a UK poker site, you can feel assured that steps have been taken to ensure games a fair and the website is safe.
What you need to start playing
It sounds obvious, but to start playing online you are going to need access to a device with a reliable internet connection. You can play poker from a smartphone or tablet either in the browser or on an app.
You can also play on the computer in the browser or by downloading software. Most of the top poker sites are designed to be used across different screen sizes.
You might wish to update your device with its latest software updates to ensure it is operating at peak performance and won’t disrupt your gameplay. Either play on your wifi at home or if out-and-about a 4G or 5G mobile data connection is recommended.
Welcome bonuses and promotions
When looking at online poker sites that have used search engine optimization to gain their high ranking to be made visible for potential consumers, you will notice that most, if not all, offer some kind of welcome bonuses or other promotion for new players. These are aimed at getting new players to sign up and deposit money into their account.
Some sites even offer no-deposit welcome bonuses, these are great if you want to try out games without committing any of your own cash. However, you should be aware that all promotions will usually have wagering requirements you must meet to withdraw winnings.
So remember to read the terms and conditions so you know what you are signing up for.
Types of poker you can play online
There are a range of poker variants that you can play online, so it is worth learning the differences between them. The most popular game is Texas Hold’em, you will find this on every poker site.
There is also Omaha, where you will receive four hole cards instead of the usual two. You can use two hands from your hand and three community cards and everyone plays until the end of the game.
Five-card draw is another type of poker, in this game the goal is to make the best hand with five cards. You can exchange up to three cards after placing your bet.
Event 36: $1,500 Seven Card Stud Hi/Lo 8 or Better plays to a winner today from 1pm in the Bally’s Event Center with Chris Papastratis leading @JeffMadsenobv @hohnjolley and Ali Eslami among the 15 returning. https://t.co/Xa5A0XLTVa
(Thank you to those pointing out the error)
— WSOP – World Series of Poker (@WSOP) June 18, 2022
Seven-card stud was the most popular game before Texas Hold’em took its place. This game requires a little more skills and can be played with up to eight players.
There are no community cards or flop in seven card stud. You must choose the best five card combination from the seven cards you have in hand.
Cash games or tournaments?
Cash games are popular with new and developing online poker players. They require smaller bankrolls than tournaments and are less intimidating to those still learning the game.
However, cash games do not tend to have the same level of paydays and the rake is often higher.
In tournaments, when you win you often win big and you can participate in high stakes games. On the flip side, tournaments can be very time consuming and you are usually required to have a very large bank roll.
Many poker players will try out both cash games and tournaments and find which fits their interests and circumstances best.
Poker hand rankings
Knowing poker hand rankings is key to understanding and succeeding in the game. You may wish to download a hand rankings pdf online or even have one printed out next to you as you get to grips with the game.
Poker online tutorials and coaching programs
Lastly, following online tutorials from major media sites such as YouTube or Twitch can help you to familiarise yourself with the rules and good poker strategy. Some successful players have following special poker coaching programs to get ahead and learn the game inside out.
Online poker is a fun, thrilling game and with the right strategy you can increase your chances of winning more regularly.