There are several factors to consider before starting to play online poker. If you’re new to the game, the biggest mistake many players make is jumping into the higher limits before they’re ready, and lose a lot of money in the process. However, poker is a lifetime game, and learning to play the game is a vital part of mastering it. Online poker is one of the most profitable ways to learn this skill. The following are some tips to keep in mind:
While online poker has been around for decades in the US, the UIGEA is relatively recent. The first sites began operating in the late 1990s, and after Chris Moneymaker won the World Series of Poker in 2003, the online poker market flourished. In 2006, however, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) forced many sites out of the U.S. market, though sites like PokerStars continued to accept U.S. players.
Once you have chosen the site that best suits your needs, it’s time to download poker software. This software requires little memory and shouldn’t take long to download even on an archaic connection. You can also choose a no download version of the poker software, but these will not offer you as many features as the full-download version. You may want to consider a no-download version of the software before you begin playing. Just make sure to play as many hands as possible in the first couple of weeks to get the maximum benefit.
Regulated states for online poker are starting to enter the market. Nevada, Delaware, New Jersey, and Michigan are among the states that have legislated online poker. Other states are considering legislation as well. But it’s important to remember that the US Supreme Court’s decision in 2013 gave states the authority to regulate online poker. While some states have made it legal, others aren’t far behind. The result is that online poker will become more widespread in the US.
The US is among the first to legalize online poker. Dover Downs, Harrington Raceway, and Delaware Park are among the places where you can play this game. All three are powered by the 888poker software. In 2019, West Virginia made online poker legal. The process of issuing gaming licenses to online poker operators has begun, and the first WV poker site should be launched in the coming weeks. However, there are some important aspects to consider before you decide to sign up.
When comparing stakes, consider the speed of play. Many online poker rooms play much faster than live games. In a $1/$2 NL cash game, you’ll likely find yourself playing against much more difficult opponents than you would in a live $1/$2 NL game. Furthermore, if you’re looking for a lower stakes game, you’ll be able to find it in an online poker room for pennies!