Poker

Online Poker Room Basics

If you've played live cash poker before, then you know there's a lot more to playing the game than just taking a seat. While online poker simplifies the process through automation features, there's still a lot to be learned. In this article we'll walk you through the online poker room basics, so by the time you're dealt your first hand the only thing you'll have to worry about is your cards.

Navigating a Poker Room Lobby

Once you've downloaded a poker room's software package, you'll have full access to that site's lobby. Many new players are overwhelmed by the lobby layout, but once you understand what every section means you'll appreciate how they help you to find your ideal game.

At the top of every lobby page you'll find a series of tabs. These tabs can be used to help you choose specific games (like Texas Hold'em or Omaha) or to choose table types (like ring games or tournaments). Once you've selected your game and table type, the lobby will load a list of all available tables. This list is usually compiled with the highest stakes at the top and the lowest stakes at the bottom, though you can click on any heading to organize the table by stakes level, available seats, average pot, or – in the case of tournaments – start time.

Most poker rooms these days also have a filtering option. You can reduce the lobby to a list of only the most relevant tables by choosing your preferences in the filter menu.

Navigating an Online Poker Table

Once you've selected a table, a separate game screen will load. The majority of this screen will be comprised of a virtual poker table. Though you will be placed in the first available seat, you can choose to view your cards from any position at the table. Basic information like screen name, pot size, and player icon will be displayed at each player's seat.

Your basic betting options – check, call, raise or fold – will be displayed as buttons. You may also place a different bet manually by entering it into the betting box. If you are playing multiple tables at once, you can click a box that will automatically make your desired move once the bet reaches your seat.

Customizing Your Poker Game

If you don't like the look of your table, chances are you can change it. Most poker rooms allow you to customize the look of a poker table, the cards, game sounds and your own icon. You can also hide or move the chat screen and resize your game screens as necessary for multi-tabling or just multitasking. If you find other players' icons and avatars distracting, you can disable them by right-clicking on each player's name. Many sites allow you to take notes on your competitors; this feature can also be accessed by right-clicking on a player's name or icon.

Poker Promotions: How to Get Them, How to Use Them

Many online poker newbies assume that the poker bonuses promoted on each site are automatic. While some are, the majority are not. If you're looking to optimize your bankroll, be sure to check your preferred poker room's promotions page for new promotions. The right deposit bonuses could double or even triple your playing cash.