Why Play Poker?

 It seems like a simple question, but the answer is both complex and personal. There are many different reasons to play or not play poker. Often, the reasons a person chooses to play poker will shed a light on what type of player that person is and what limits/games he or she should play.

Reasons to Play Poker:
Social Rewards. This is a major reason behind the traditional 'home game.' Many friends like to hang out and play cards, and many people become friends over the card table. If this is one of the major reasons you wish to play, stick with the lower stakes, where the games are more fun and friendly.

Entertainment. Poker is a competitive game. To win, one needs the skills and the bit of luck the game necessitates. Many find this enjoyable and compare poker to playing a sport. Make sure you do not get swept up in the 'entertainment' nature of poker though because it is possible to lose a lot of money at the game.

Education. The skills necessary to become a good poker player apply well to other aspects of life. Poker will help you to improve your judgment skills (reading people) and sharpen your logic/strategic skills (how to play your hand).

To Make Money. Most people play poker for fun, but some make considerable money at it. Of course, these people are few and far between. Not everyone can make a lot of money from poker. Nevertheless, the desire to win more is definitely a reason to improve your poker skills.

Poker is one of the few forms of wagering where you can actually win. Casino-style betting is rigged against you (it is impossible to win in the long-run at craps/roulette/etc. no matter what anyone says. The only exception is blackjack if you count cards, which is extremely, extremely difficult). Sports betting is also near impossible to beat without insider information. Thus, poker is one of the few forms of gambling where one can actually win money in the long run simply by being good at the game.

Reasons NOT to Play Poker:
You Have A Gambling Problem. When anyone plays poker, he or she risks losing money. One should never play poker with money that he or she cannot afford to lose. Poker winnings should not be viewed as a method to 'strike it rich,' and losses should not be viewed as money that needs to be 'won back.' If you are prone to a gambling problem, do not play poker.

Disclaimer: Most jurisdictions view poker as gambling; in some jurisdictions, playing poker for money is illegal. The information contained here should not be construed as legal advice. Many people have become addicted to poker and lost considerable sums of money.