After virtual poker games in 2020 and various outbreak restrictions in 2021, live poker has returned in a big way in 2022.
Connecticut is no stranger to gambling, and popular casinos like Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun offer an outlet for locals interested in poker. And although it’s not an option yet, it’s expected that online poker will be legalized in the future.
The poker calendar is ramping up with tons of events for 2022, so if it’s been a while since you’ve played live, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s a guide to help you make the right call and avoid some common pitfalls while playing live poker this year.
#6 Keep an eye on one other players
It is likely you don’t need to be reminded of this one, but we’ll say it anyway: see everyone at the table!
Understanding your opponents’ attitudes and tells can be very valuable. It can mean the difference between ultimately winning and losing.
Observing your opponents throughout the game can tell you:
- Who’s a regular player and who is a newcomer
- Which players are playing more conservatively and which are playing more aggressively
- The players who are focused and engaged in the game and the ones who are less attentive
- The individual behaviors of specific players at the table
Ultimately, keeping a pulse on your surroundings can help inform your decisions regarding who you want to challenge and who you want to avoid.
#5 Move in the appropriate circles
Whenever you’re a serious player and have your eye on going pro, it’s imperative to insert yourself into the right circles. Avoid spending time with players who view the game more recreationally and, instead, surround yourself with like-minded individuals.
When you’re constantly around people who share the same goals, you’ll be able to learn from each other and improve your poker skills.
#4 Find out when to always be aggressive inside your game
Being cautious certainly has its place in the game of poker. However, being too timid can cost you some significant wins.
Consider ramping up your game in 2022 and becoming a bit more aggressive. One way to start is by raising bets pre-flop. This will force opponents to fold, so you’re up against fewer hands.
You can also start raising more often post-flop. The more money that goes into the pot, the larger your bankroll will become. It’s as simple as that.
#3 Don’ t acquire live holdem poker too really
If it’s been a while since you’ve been in a live game, don’t make the mistake of taking it too seriously. Not only will this be stressful for you, but it may also alter the atmosphere of the game overall.
When you’re looking to go pro, your bread and butter lies in playing against novice players. They’re probably already timid about the game, so it’s important to make them feel comfortable so you can read them better.
You need new players at the table regularly. That’s the best way to increase your winnings in poker. That’s why you should open up, joke around, and be talkative at the table.
Don’t intimidate or scare off novice players by being too intense or focused. That’s intimidating to a beginner, and they won’t come back to give you more of their bankroll.
#2 Know your current strengths and even play with these people
Probably the most damaging mistake you could make is choosing the wrong game, especially if you’ve been out of the live game for a while. It’s important to play to your strengths and minimize your weaknesses.
It’s a good idea to observe the room for a while before joining a game. Be cautious of professional card players and avoid those games.
Choose a game where you’ll feel comfortable with the skill level of the players, the atmosphere they’re creating, and the required bankroll.
#1 Don’ t overextend your bank roll
Speaking of bankrolls, don’t make the mistake of blowing yours too soon. It’s a good idea to initially choose games with a buy-in that’s only a small portion of your budget.
That way, if you’re still a bit rusty, a poorly timed bluff or a mistaken assumption about another player won’t hit you too hard. The high-stakes games might be tempting, but hold off for a while until you’ve got your bearings.
2020 was a tough year with the widespread absence of live poker, and 2021 wasn’t much better with the restrictions. As you enter 2022, stay focused on what you need to do to play better poker and potentially earn some significant winnings while gambling in CT.
