The popularity of poker as the card game of choice has oftentimes been attributed to online gaming. Many home gamers and poker puritans will probably disagree, but history will tell us that the unprecedented spike of the card game’s popularity throughout the 21st century is largely as a result of its introduction online.

Of course, some may argue that the invention of the hole-card camera has given poker an elite status as it has turned the game into a spectator sport. This innovation has allowed millions of poker aficionados worldwide to follow the action and drama of all of it, giving birth to a more exciting broadcast of the World Series of Poker as well as the World Poker Tour. Poker pros have become instant celebrities, as a result of cable and satellite TV.

Due to the increasing fame of poker, a growing number of people are getting into the hype, which is not going to fade within the next decade. Home games have become increasingly more popular and poker tournaments abound. As well as to add fuel to this worldwide phenomenon, poker has been made available online. Basically, virtually anyone with a computer and an Internet access can play poker to their hearts desire.

As a testament to the success of online poker, major tournaments have practically increased player base with the introduction of online satellite-qualifier games, with the winner earning a seat in to a major tourney. Chris Moneymaker and Greg Raymer, winners of the 2003 and 2004 WSOP tournaments respectively, won their seats online through satellites.

This brings us again to the good debate now brewing within the poker community: online poker vs. offline poker?

The debate need not be as contentious as it may sound, as each of the gaming arena offers something advantageous over another without really putting one down.

Online poker is played the same as offline poker. The guidelines are exactly the same for every sort of poker game like Texas Hold’em, Stud, or Draw poker. Some will claim that offline poker is more exciting, as the opponents meet eye to eye. It really is here where you are able to see another player’s “tells,” if his hands tremble when he has a big hand or if his nose twitches if he bluffs. You can stare down an opponent in offline poker, and look great doing it like just what the pros do.

They are the things you can’t do learn online poker casino. You do not see the other players. You do not get to observe their “tells.” All you can do is watch how they bet and see if you’re able to predict their betting patterns.

On the other hand, online poker has its advantages. Not everybody owns a poker table and an otherwise expensive chip set. The poker web sites will provide that for you, all you may need to do is download the platform. You should not have to waste time and effort organizing a home game, as there are players online ready to take you on practically anytime of the day. You can play with a German player or anybody who has an internet connection anywhere on the globe. You may play with real money or just have fun playing without it. What is more, most poker sites will give you free money to play with without even asking for a deposit, meaning you can actually bankroll your poker career without spending just one penny online.

As well as the odds are the same. The rules are exactly the same. As well as the players are the same. Online poker has just made it easier that you should experience the best card game in the world.