Since the game was invented in North America early in the 19th century, poker slowly became one of the most popular card games in the US. And while in the past, people loved traveling to designated gambling rooms to enjoy the game, the appearance of the internet changed the poker world completely.
In the past couple of decades, more and more people exchanged their trips to brick-and-mortar poker venues with online gambling platforms. Playing poker online with a friend has never been more accessible and fun, but the question is: should you play against your friends on an online platform? And if so, what is the best way to do so? Find out everything there is to know about playing poker with friends and set out on a wild journey!
Playing Online Poker with Friends: Some Background
According to Statista, about 15-18% of American adults in the US played online poker in the early 2000s. And while there is no official information to indicate how many people play poker online nowadays, there is no doubt the numbers have grown exponentially in recent years.
Approximately one out of five adults enjoy playing online poker for different reasons: the game is exciting and challenging, providing players with plenty of stimulation to keep them entertained for hours on end. Moreover, poker is generally a social game, which means that playing the game is accompanied by friendly (or not friendly, depending on your opponents) interactions, allowing you to expand your social circle in a way.
Pros and Cons of Playing Poker with Friends
Since the social aspect of poker is an important part of the experience, many players want to make their poker session even more enjoyable by playing with friends. But is it a smart idea or not?
There are many pros to involving your friends in your poker experience:
- You are already familiar with their behavioral patterns, and it will be easier to figure out their tells (even while playing online).
- As we get older and our schedules get busier and busier, catching up with friends becomes harder. But when you don't even have to leave your house, nothing can stop you from having a quick reunion over a few rounds of poker.
- When you play poker with friends, you can decide whether you want to place real money bets or enjoy the game for free. Therefore, the element of pressure can be eliminated from the equation, allowing you to enjoy a nice and friendly poker game without much risk.
However, some might say that there are also certain cons to playing poker against your friends.
- You might put a strain on your relationship if you get too competitive while playing.
- You might feel uncomfortable with taking your friends' money if you choose to play for real money.
- The friendly banter in the group chat can distract you from the game itself, thus potentially costing you money.
But at the end of the day, many people believe that the pros of playing with friends outweigh the cons. And if you pay careful attention to the possible disadvantages, nothing can detract from your experience.
How to Play Poker with Friends
Whether you want to place real money bets or play poker with friends online for free, you can choose one of three ways to have a memorable session:
- Join the same gambling platform – Dozens of online poker platforms (wink wink...Everygame Poker) allow you to play either for real money or for free. You can take a seat at existing tables and play with your friends alongside unfamiliar opponents, or you can find a venue that allows you to set up a private table for you and your pals to enjoy separately.
- Use a mobile app - If you are really short on time, you can always join the same poker mobile app. Once you do, you might be able to gamble on the go and have some fun with your friends even amidst a busy day.
- Sign up for the same poker tournaments – Those of you who thrive on challenges might find online poker tournaments the most enjoyable. Convince your friends to join the same events and see who can burst the bubble!
Don't Forget: Poker is Fun!
Sometimes, players take poker too seriously. Yes, the game can be somewhat stressful – especially if you are trying to go pro. But don't forget that it is supposed to be fun as well! If you need a reminder of how entertaining poker can be, play a bit with your friends and family!