Sign-up for our Poker Newsletter and receive tips, specials from the top poker rooms, bonuses and more.
|
|
|
Online Poker vs Live Poker
24 May 06
|
 |
Texas Hold 'em is basically the same game, whether you play online or live. However in a live game, there are more rules that a new player needs to be aware of. For example, players need to protect their cards with a chip or a card protector. If someone accidentally throws away their mucked hands at your unprotected cards, your cards will be declared dead. Playing against live competition also means many players will try to gain information from you by observing your body language. A player's reaction at the table in various situations can provide insight into their strengths or weaknesses.
One advantage of online poker is that there is no trace of body language when you play. This can be an advantage for the new players as the seasoned players cannot rely on your reaction, or tells, to make decisions. Another advantage of online poker is that it allows players to try the game without risking any money, or very little money. Free play and micro-limits are available to the novice players. Live poker usually starts out at 2/4 limit or 1/2 no limit, while online poker starts as low as 1c/2c. Anonymity works well with inexperienced online players too. New players feel more comfortable without having to worry about making a mistake and getting scolded by other players.
Online poker is a great way to get familiar with the game, and there are no problems about finding practice opponents. In fact, most online poker sites allow players to play at multiple tables. Once a new player becomes competitive, they can take advantage of this multi-table feature and start earning higher hourly rates.
Online players constantly move in and out of games so establishing a table image or changing playing style is less important online. Playing straight forward is a good strategy for online poker and also good practice. On the other side, players in live games usually stay at the same table for hours. Playing the same way for hours will lead to predictability and seasoned players will take advantage.
Online poker is a good choice for new players. However, live poker is not without its own benefits. The average skill level of live players is usually lower than online poker at the same blind level. You will see many players making fundamental mistakes, that means they will likely hand you money most of the time. Nothing beats the feeling of winning a big pile of chips than winning a big pile of chips.
Whether you play a lot of Texas Hold 'em online or at a casino, you're bound to improve. After all practice makes perfect.
|
|
|
|