Now, I know we could’ve started with this, but hey, who likes to be told how to play at the outset? After all this is a big part of the game – learning how to do it and getting better with every other bet. But let’s put the beauty and romanticism of chance and trial-error and be honest – you do need some basics.

So we’ve put this short little guide with very basic advice that will be beneficial to everyone – new players and the ones amongst you who know it all, but can certainly do with some reminders. Sit yourself comfortably in front of your screen and let’s roll.

1. Watch your fellow players – yes, that’s right. You can even take notes. You can never do too much in that direction, regardless of where and how you are playing. And this doesn’t have to be necessarily related to physical appearance – a manner of playing is just as (if not more) important (especially online).
2. Play when you have rested – yes, it sounds a bit like the sort of thing your mother would say but it’s true. Try it and you will see you will make much better choices and therefore – enjoy much better results.
3. Play for pleasure – I know you will say you do anyway, but think again. If you have a money issue, if you’re in any sort of distress or let’s just say it – you’re plain greedy – that’s no good. Nothing will ever be enough and you will always end up not satisfied. Play for fun, when you feel in a good mood and with what you can afford to lose. And enjoy it – that’s what the game is for.
4. Don’t make your opponents personal enemies – be it a RNG or a real player – losing is part of life, so unless you can handle it like an adult, gambling is not for you. Sort your issues outside and come back when you’re ready.
5. Discipline, discipline, discipline – I know, I know I am starting to sound like your granny but it’s true! Learn to let go (oh that sounds so existential…right…). The truth is, you are going to win and you are going to lose. Simple as that. The trick is to lose a little when you do and to win a lot. So learn to let go of bad hands, even if you think the player against you is bluffing. Curiosity is a fine thing but it did kill the cat, didn’t it?

And to sum it all up – as with everything, nothing can fully apply to everything and everyone – we are all different so we play different. Try to learn yourself – without risking too much to begin with, test the water, see how you, yourself react to different situations, see what works and what doesn’t work for you and take notes. Improve on that the next time. Yes, it is about luck, but you know the old saying “The harder I work, the luckier I get”. It’s true, in poker as well. If you have the time to dig in, you can learn from some top players too, just to top your own experience – it helps and as an extra, most of their stories are quite fascinating.

That’s it from me for now folks, stay well, stay lucky and come see me again soon!