Poker – Online Gambling or Pastime?

Over the last few years, poker games have experienced a real boom in Germany. This is especially due to the fact that there are various TV shows where celebrities play against each other. In addition, the well-known advertising side advertises one of many online poker platforms.

This is especially appealing to young people to make poker socially acceptable and to get out of the dark side of gambling. How about online poker?

Online Poker vs. Poker

First of all: Anyone who occasionally meets friends for a poker round is far from being a gambling addict or gamer. Playing together promotes social contact and the exchange of tips and tricks. But that’s very different in online poker. The focus here is not on community or social contact, but on the game itself. The fact that more and more casinos are no longer offering poker is increasing the trend towards online poker. But why are classic casinos declining poker offerings despite their growing popularity?

Why Online Poker?

For casino operators, the answer is simple. For example, providing poker tables, staff, and space costs more than roulette and slot machines in terms of potential income. However, in the case of online casinos, poker is rewarded because you don’t have to provide staff or space. In addition, there is another attractive source of revenue for targeted advertising.

For gamers, constant availability is an important argument in favor of online gaming. However, this peculiarity is also a big danger for the player.

Potential Risks of Online Poker

Traditional casinos have limited business hours, relatively strict dress codes, and may impose a house ban in an emergency. These control instruments are not in virtual poker. No one cares when to gamble, how much to gamble, or what kind of physical and mental condition they are in. This allows vulnerable people to gamble at a higher risk than in real life at a casino. Lack of social aspects is a big problem with online poker.

Legal basis

Are you even allowed to bet and gamble online? In Germany, the legal status of game providers, including online poker providers, is clearly regulated. However, the provider will find a way and a way around these rules. For example, the ban on online gambling in Germany has been lifted by the fact that operators are promoting poker sites that play points instead of real money. These pages have links to “correct” poker sites where you can play for real money. These pages are often hosted abroad to avoid legal issues.

Positive effects of poker

Poker has a positive effect on players, except that they can play for money and all the negative effects it brings, such as gambling addiction, financial problems, and loneliness. Poker is a sociable and highly complex game with numerous tactics and a complex set of rules. In addition to your own cards, you need to learn to evaluate your opponent’s cards, control yourself, and keep up with new situations. Whether online or with friends, regular games help you focus and keep your gray matter busy.

However, you need to observe yourself for the game and be careful not to isolate yourself or limit social contact. Poker needs to continue to be a fun and healthy entertainment.

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