Online Poker 2023
Online poker is a form of poker played over the internet, where players from all over the world can play against each other in real time. The game is played in much the same way as traditional poker, but with some key differences due to the online medium.
Online poker is a digital version of the popular card game that is played over the internet. The game is played with a standard 52-card deck and can be played by anywhere from two to ten players. The aim of the game is to win as many chips as possible by forming the best five-card hand, using a combination of community cards and cards held in each player’s hand.
Gameplay typically begins with each player receiving two cards, which are known as “hole cards” or “pocket cards”. These are dealt face down, and players can use them to form a hand in combination with the five community cards that are dealt in the middle of the table.
The game is played over a series of betting rounds, with players taking turns to act. The first round of betting takes place after the hole cards are dealt, and subsequent rounds of betting take place after each of the community cards are dealt. In each betting round, players can choose to bet, raise, call, or fold. The goal is to make the best five-card hand possible, based on the cards in the community and in each player’s hand.
Online poker has some unique features that set it apart from traditional, in-person poker. For example, online poker allows players to play multiple tables at once, increasing the speed and intensity of gameplay. In addition, online poker sites often offer a wide range of games, formats, and stakes to suit all types of players, from beginners to experienced professionals.
Another key feature of online poker is the use of software that ensures fair play and prevents cheating. Online poker sites use sophisticated algorithms to shuffle and deal cards, and to ensure that the odds of winning are the same for all players. In addition, many sites use encryption and other security measures to protect player data and ensure that gameplay is safe and secure.
Online poker has become an increasingly popular form of entertainment in recent years, thanks to its convenience, accessibility, and range of games and formats. With the growth of mobile technology, players can now access online poker games from their smartphones and tablets, allowing them to play on the go.
What should a good online poker room offer?
- First and foremost, there should be a big enough pool of players online, and (hopefully) at multiple limits, and across the different variants. You will want to have a wide selection, so you can pick and choose according to what you’d like to play; it’s important to avoid having to wait for a free seat or a table to open.
- Next, we want to help you find a site that has a lot of poor players (fish) at the tables. We want to ensure your poker experience isn’t ruined by constantly sitting down with only the most serious – even professional – players.
- You want to feel totally comfortable as a player on a poker site, the aim being to simply get on with the game in the knowledge that the highest levels of security are being maintained. The priority is that players are provided with the best possible gaming experience and, for this reason, we work with only the largest and most reputable, well-known providers. All the poker rooms we recommend have a valid gaming license and a proven track record in the industry that goes back years.
- A nice bonus program, interesting promotions and generous rakeback deals are, of course, great news. But who doesn’t want a bit of extra money if it’s there for the taking? We can offer players who join via YPD exactly that in the form of juicy exclusives!
The top online poker sites for 2023 for players from the US
We partner with a number of online poker rooms, and below you can find the ten which we most recommend. Sign up with one of these via YPD and we are confident you will have a fantastic online poker experience.
YPD Recommendation: Our partner sites BetOnline and Sportsbetting AG from the Chico Network. Both poker rooms have been among the leading providers of online poker for many years and accept players from the USA and almost every country in the world. A balanced field of players between professional and occasional players, great promotions and highly modern software for the PC or mobile phone are waiting for you. You won’t regret it!
Our partners BlackChipPoker and Americas Cardroom are of course also a very good choice and, with over 20 years of experience, offer many advantages for poker players from all over the world.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
The History of Online Poker
The history of online poker dates back to the 1990s when the first online poker site, Planet Poker, was launched. The site offered a range of games, including Texas Hold’em, and attracted a small but dedicated player base. However, due to the limited technology available at the time, the site’s software was basic, and gameplay was slow and clunky.
It wasn’t until the early 2000s that online poker really took off, with the launch of more sophisticated online poker sites such as Paradise Poker and PartyPoker. These sites offered improved software, faster gameplay, and a wider range of games, and attracted a much larger player base. At the same time, online poker started to gain mainstream media attention, with coverage of major online tournaments and the success of professional players such as Chris Moneymaker, who won the 2003 World Series of Poker Main Event after qualifying through an online satellite tournament.
The growth of online poker continued throughout the mid-2000s, with more and more players joining the virtual tables. However, the industry faced some significant challenges during this period. In 2006, the US government passed the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), which made it illegal for financial institutions to process payments related to online gambling. This led to the closure of several online poker sites and a significant drop in player numbers.
Despite these challenges, online poker continued to evolve and adapt. New sites emerged, offering improved software and a wider range of games. In addition, the rise of mobile technology allowed players to access online poker games on their smartphones and tablets, making it even more accessible and convenient.
Today, online poker is a thriving industry, with millions of players from all over the world. The game is played across a range of platforms, including desktop and mobile devices, and offers a wide range of games and formats, from traditional Texas Hold’em to less well-known variants such as Omaha and Stud.
In conclusion, online poker has come a long way since its early days in the 1990s. Despite facing some significant challenges, it has evolved and adapted to become a thriving and popular form of entertainment enjoyed by players all over the world. With ongoing improvements in technology and software, online poker is likely to continue to evolve and attract new players in the years to come.
Online Poker is a game for everybody
Online poker just keeps growing and growing, and has become firmly established in the gaming world. A few countries have tried to block and outlaw it, but even here this tends to be in order to clear the way for their own government-regulated and taxed sites to profit. The game is definitely here to stay.
The notion of playing at home yet competing against players from all over the world attracts thousands of people every day to the virtual tables. Whether you’re playing for a few pennies or you decide to take a shot at big money, there’s always something for everyone, with an abundance of games and formats to suit every bankroll. There are many online poker operators out there, but we can help you navigate your choices to find the most suitable site for you – this is because only the best poker rooms can be found here on YourPokerDream.
Online poker is a game for young and old – it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with people of all ages, from all walks of life and from around the globe. Everyone is equal at the virtual poker tables.
YourPokerDream is the perfect place for online poker players. Here you can find numerous promotions, bonuses and rakeback deals with the most famous and well respected online poker rooms. We’re also here to help you learn and improve your game, with plenty of articles on a variety of topics, including rules, strategies and the increasingly important psychological side to poker, as well as general information about the game and even the latest news items about what’s going on in the poker world from day to day.
We also strive to give all our YPD members the best service at any time. The mission here at YourPokerDream is to help provide poker fans with a fun, safe and secure feeling when they log on. Join our community today and you’ll immediately start to reap the benefits. It takes less than a minute to sign up, and is 100% free.
Benefits of Playing Poker Online
Here is a detailed overview of the benefits of playing online poker, including some key advantages that you might not have considered before.
- Convenience: One of the main benefits of online poker is its convenience. With online poker, you can play from the comfort of your own home, at any time that suits you. This eliminates the need to travel to a physical casino or poker room, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
- Accessibility: Online poker is also more accessible than traditional poker. With a computer or mobile device and an internet connection, you can play from anywhere in the world. This makes it easier for people who live in areas without access to a physical casino or poker room to enjoy the game.
- Variety: Online poker offers a wide range of games, formats, and stakes to suit all types of players. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, you can find a game that suits your skill level and bankroll. In addition, online poker sites often offer a range of special tournaments and promotions, giving players even more opportunities to win big.
- Speed: Online poker is typically faster than traditional poker. Because the game is played digitally, there is no need for the dealer to shuffle and deal cards, and players can make their moves more quickly. This means you can play more hands in a shorter amount of time, making online poker a great option for players who want to fit in a quick game or tournament.
- Learning opportunities: Online poker also offers a range of learning opportunities for players. Many online poker sites offer free games or low-stakes tables, allowing players to practice and improve their skills without risking too much money. In addition, online poker sites often provide a range of educational resources, such as articles, videos, and forums, where players can learn more about the game and exchange tips and strategies with other players.
- Social interaction: While online poker is played digitally, it still offers opportunities for social interaction. Many online poker sites have chat features that allow players to communicate with each other during gameplay, and some even offer virtual avatars or characters that can be customized to express personality or style.
- Bonuses and rewards: Finally, online poker offers a range of bonuses and rewards that are not available in traditional poker. Many online poker sites offer welcome bonuses, referral bonuses, and other promotions to attract and retain players. In addition, players can earn rewards through loyalty programs, such as frequent player points, which can be redeemed for cash, prizes, or other perks.
In conclusion, online poker offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice for players all over the world. From convenience and accessibility to variety, speed, learning opportunities, social interaction, and bonuses and rewards, there are many reasons to try your hand at online poker.
Drawbacks of Online Poker
There are, of course, drawbacks to online poker.
- Poker purists, for example, would suggest that a key reason to play ‘live’ is exactly that – to enjoy the experience.
- Not being physically in the company of your opponents means being unable to read them for tells via facial expressions and body language. This can be a very useful skill, and some players might miss it more than others.
- With the above in mind, bluffing can be a different animal. Online players are essentially in the dark compared with ‘live’ game players when faced with a possible bluff.
The difference between Real money and Play money
Real Money Poker vs Play Money Poker
The difference between playing with real money and play money is a key distinction when it comes to online poker. Here’s a breakdown of the main differences between real money and play money poker games:
- Real Money: As the name suggests, real money poker games involve actual money being wagered and won or lost. This means that players must deposit money into their online poker account in order to play real money games, and their winnings or losses are reflected in their account balance. Real money poker games usually have higher stakes and offer the chance to win significant amounts of money.
- Play Money: Play money poker games, on the other hand, are played with fake chips or virtual currency, which have no monetary value. Players do not need to deposit any money to play these games and can play as much as they want without any risk of losing real money. Play money games are often used for practice or to try out new strategies without risking any actual money.
Here are some of the key differences between real money and play money poker games:
- Risk: Real money poker games involve the risk of losing actual money, while play money games do not. This means that players may approach the game differently depending on whether they are playing with real or play money. Real money games tend to be more serious and competitive, while play money games are more relaxed and casual.
- Competition: Real money games often attract more serious and experienced players, who are playing to win real money. Play money games, on the other hand, are often played by beginners or players who are just looking to have fun.
- Stakes: Real money games usually have higher stakes than play money games, meaning that players can win or lose larger amounts of money. Play money games, on the other hand, typically have lower stakes, with players winning or losing virtual currency that has no actual value.
- Game Selection: Not all games are available for play money, and some may only be available for real money. For example, high stakes tournaments are typically only available in real money format.
- Bonuses and Rewards: Online poker sites may offer bonuses or rewards for playing with real money, but not for play money. These bonuses and rewards can include deposit bonuses, free tournament entries, or other perks that can add value to playing with real money.
In conclusion, the main difference between playing with real money and play money in online poker is the risk of losing or winning actual money. Real money games are more serious, attract more experienced players, and offer the chance to win real money. Play money games are more relaxed, attract beginners or casual players, and allow for practice and trying out new strategies without risking any actual money.
Choosing the Best Online Poker Sites
As we pointed out earlier, not all poker sites offer the best services to players. With this in mind, it can be helpful to consider certain aspects when looking for online poker rooms that are the most suitable for you. What might not be important for one player could be a deal-breaker for another. Below we will set out a few factors that are worth including in the selection process.
Licensing is Key
Licensing should be the first thing on your list of important considerations when finding a good online poker site. The most respectable and established operators have a valid license from an appropriate and respected regulatory authority. This authority specifies the rules and regulations that the online provider must adhere to, which in turn tends to maximize the quality of the services these poker sites ultimately deliver. You should always avoid playing at any poker site that is not licensed as they don’t have to operate according to key stringent rules and could also potentially be scam sites.
Available Poker Variants
What kind of poker variants an operator makes available – and how much the choice on offer extends – is a good indicator of the quality of an online poker room. This is an important factor because the wider the variety of games on offer, the more poker fans will be likely to join, which in turn makes for larger player pools and busier traffic generally.
Bonuses and Promotions
We all like something extra, so it’s a good idea to search out what kind of bonuses and promotions are offered. Not all are the same, with some being more generous or player-friendly than others. In fact, you might be surprised how much of a difference the right kind of bonus can make, with the best deals affording players more chances to add to their bankroll and opportunities to win big. Top online poker sites offer players generous Welcome Bonuses, daily promotions, loyalty rewards and so on. BlackChipPoker, for instance, offers a Welcome Bonus of 100% up to 2.000$
Customer Support
Customer Support might not seem too big a consideration, but the kind of support an online poker room provides its customers determines how easy it will be for players to receive assistance when they need it. The best poker sites offer support 24/7 via different channels, such as Live Chat, email and telephone. Most also have a comprehensive FAQ section with answers to commonly asked questions. When you play at any of the sites we’ve recommended so far you can rest assured that your inquiries (and any complaints) will be handled quickly.
Security and User Experience
Given that you will be asked to provide your personal and financial details when registering with a poker site, you’d be right to expect that the security put in place is of top quality. The best online poker rooms secure their platform using SSL encryption – all communications on these sites are encrypted with this technology, so your information won’t fall into the wrong hands. You should also check the overall user experience of the poker site. Make sure it is easy to navigate and is responsive on both desktop and mobile devices.
Conclusion
We hope that, in discussing the pros and cons of online poker, this article has served to highlight how to choose the best poker sites. Remember that your gaming experience is going to be based on how good the site is at which you’re playing, so when finding somewhere to play this fascinating game it’s well worth investing a bit of time making the right choice before investing your hard-earned cash.
Online Poker FAQ
To help you along your poker journey, here are a few of our most Frequently Asked Questions. If you have more of your own, then please feel free to contact our Support Team for help and advice.
We are always happy to assist you. The fastest way to get in touch is via live chat by Skype/Telegram or Discord, while we can also be contacted by email.
Email: [email protected]
Skype: vip-yourpokerdream
Telegram Messenger: https://t.me/Yourpokerdream
Discord Channel YourPokerDream Community: https://discord.gg/G2A5B3a76q
What types of poker games are available online?
If you’re looking to try your hand at Cash Games you can find No Limit Texas Hold’em on all online poker sites, with many also offering Limit and Pot Limit Texas Hold’em. Fans of the action-packed Pot Limit Omaha format will have no problem finding a table on most poker sites. Recently, Short Deck Hold’em has become increasingly popular – this is no doubt due to the increased action generated by stripping the deck of all cards 5 or lower.
Meanwhile, there’s a smorgasbord of tournaments to add to the overall feast of online poker. And there’s a great deal of fun to be had! There are always many options available, from huge 1000+ plus player Multi-Table Tournaments (MTT) to quicker games such as Sit & Go or Spin & Go tourneys.
Is it possible to play online poker on a mobile device?
Nearly every poker site has a mobile version or app to use – both for iOS and Android platforms. No matter what kind of smartphone or tablet you might have, poker is available to you on the go. However, note that most poker apps are available only directly from the poker site itself rather than the Google Play or App Store.
Download the poker app from the poker room you like and you can play whenever you want, and from any place. All you need is access to the internet and you’re good to go and ready to compete with players from all four corners of the world.
Which currency can I use?
Usually, all poker sites offer players GBP, USD and Euro currency options, while most tend to use USD as the standard table currency. Note that currency conversions are automatically carried out at the same exchange rate when you sit down or leave, so there’s no need to worry about currency exchange fees when switching seats.
Can I play poker at multiple tables at the same time?
The facility to play more than one hand of poker at a time is one of the main reasons why so many prefer online to live poker. It’s one of the indisputable positive differences between the two formats. Not only does multi-tabling considerably reduce the waiting time between hands but, crucially, it also offers players exponential earning power from our Rakeback deals. And here is a very important reason why the team at YourPokerDream works tirelessly to offer the best Rakeback deals available.
With this in mind, if you find the middle stages of a tournament are running rather slowly, why not fire up a NL Texas Hold’em Cash game on the side? Alternatively, what about the fun challenge of playing two Heads-up Pot Limit Omaha games at the same time? Whatever you’re looking for, multi-tabling can provide plenty of action and liven up a poker session in a way that is possible only via an online provider.
What is the minimum age requirement to play online poker?
You have to be at least 18 years old to play online poker, and this limit can be higher depending on your country of residence. As part of the process of opening an account, or prior to cashing out, it is standard practice for poker sites to request a copy of your identification to verify your age and identity. These regulations are put in place by the relevant gaming authorities in order to ensure responsible gaming, and mirror those you would encounter in a regular bricks and mortar casino.
If you are younger than 18, then you are not allowed to play online poker for real money, and will also not be permitted to register at any poker room or casino.
Where can I find the most players?
All the poker sites we recommend and review have large enough player bases to ensure there are always games running for you. No matter which site you choose, you’ll find plenty of tables running 24/7, with the popular variants such as Texas Hold’em Cash Games and Pot Limit Omaha featuring heavily, plus a very wide range of Multi-table tournaments with very attractive guaranteed prize pools.
Are online poker rooms safe?
YourPokerDream recommends – and only works with – the world’s largest, most reputable online poker providers. Each has a valid gaming license, thus ensuring that you can play legally.
In addition, all listed poker sites are checked and certified by independent auditing organizations, so we can guarantee that the cards are being dealt 100% fairly.