Poker is an icon of the casino. Everyone has heard of this game. That’s why so many myths are born around it. Most of them are entirely unfounded. But they can take away your desire to try yourself in poker or make you worry in a game when there is no reason.
In this article, I’ll demystify five of the most popular myths about online poker, explaining what they are and how to avoid falling into these traps.
How to Play Poker Online
Let’s start from the beginning. Is there a difference between traditional poker and its online format? Yes and no. The rules are the same. However, the mechanics of the online game vary depending on whether you play against the system or with other real players.
The live format is very appreciated by many precisely because it delivers the feeling of the traditional poker experience. There is more talking. It makes live poker even more attractive. If you play online using a mobile app, the gameplay will be much more dynamic and faster.
The 5 Most Common Online Poker Myths
Myth #1: It is Impossible to Beat the House
Software providers designing online poker games strictly control the security process. One of the features these games include in their system on a mandatory basis is random number generators or RNG in short. These RNGs, in turn, go through independent audits so that providers and casinos can continue to use them. It is impossible to rig them.
In each game, the casino always takes a certain percentage. The slot’s RTP best explains this. If a slot has a 96% RTP, it means that out of every $100, you can expect a return of $96. The same works for poker. In Mister Green, for example, you can find poker titles with an RTP of 95% and above.
However, RTP is an approximate percentage — the figures can change to more or less because they are probabilities. The percentage left is the margin the casino keeps for doing its job and giving you a place to have fun. This way, you can win, and the casino will win its share. It’s fair, and everyone is happy. Make sure you play games issued by reputable providers only and don’t forget casinos you visit should be licensed as well — always read Fine Print Behind Online Slot Pay or poker, or whatever game you are playing.
Myth #2: Traditional Poker is Better than Online Poker
It’s a matter of taste. However, there is no question that online poker has its advantages. Your opponents are less likely to bluff or use some other psychological trick to beat you. This is a significant advantage.
You can play online poker from anywhere and at any time. It’s undoubtedly easier to self-monitor how much time you spend. One way to find out what you like best is to try it. Try both traditional and online versions of poker. Compare and decide what you like best.
You can also try the live game mode offered by many casinos. It’s ideal, as you can play in a traditional environment from the comfort of your home.
Myth #3: It Is Just a Matter of Luck
Poker is one of those casino games that also requires skill. Yes, like any game of chance, it has its percentage of luck. That’s why we like it. Yes, sometimes there are winning streaks and losing streaks. Some have their luck rituals for this reason. But skills do matter.
Practice and improve the speed of decision-making, the level of risk you can withstand, the management of emotions, the deep knowledge of combinations, the application of strategies, and much more.
Myth #4: You Have to Be an Expert to Win
Though your success at poker sessions can depend on skills, luck still is of great importance as well. You can be lucky even if it is your first game. Moreover, I have personally seen it work that way many times. It seems like the magic of a novice. More than once, even without knowing the combinations, players have come to get high-winning combinations literally in their first game.
Set a time and money limit to avoid risking too much, especially if you are just starting. If you are sure you can spend a certain amount of money and time, you will be able to enjoy yourself. Luck usually comes when you are not afraid and you are relaxed.
Myth #5: It Is Better to Start with a Demo Version
It may make sense to learn the combinations and train your speed. If you want to familiarize yourself with the environment and get to know the platform, that’s a good idea.
But in reality, the moment of truth arrives when the game starts. You need to learn the combinations and rules better if you are a beginner. You must have an example of how to play. The reality of the demo versions of poker is that the other players need to follow the rules and make decisions with logic, and they are distracting.
If you are just starting and don’t want to gamble with real money, start by studying poker materials. You can find some training applications without other players. When you memorize the rules and understand how they work through the videos, start betting even with small amounts.
Final Thoughts
Poker can be a fascinating pastime. Yes, it is surrounded by myths, some of which have a certain logic. But as you can see, they are avoidable with some tips and good strategies. When you play, enjoy and don’t worry. If you do worry, go back and read the tips, practice again, and then get back into the game. Good luck!
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