Poker is an immensely popular card game enjoyed by millions worldwide in casinos, online and at home. This highly strategic and competitive card game requires knowledge, skills, adaptability and the ability to adapt quickly in different environments; yet its fortune-telling elements add another element that may or may not play out on any particular hand. As it has gained more traction recently with Olympic organizers attempting to add poker alongside skateboarding, snowboarding and karate for inclusion this Summer Games; nonetheless many remain skeptical as to its legitimacy as an online form of gambling.
Gambling’s growth can be traced to accessibility and digitization; with over 6 billion smartphones now in circulation and 4.6 billion internet users having regular internet access; many people now enjoy playing poker, slots and sports betting from the convenience of their mobile phones.
Access is key to the rapid expansion of iGaming, while legalities remain murky. States’ decisions regarding regulation and legalization depend on state gambling laws; as a result, some may be less keen to legalize online poker than others.
Rhode Island is one such state with unclear gambling laws that make it hard to classify poker as gambling – therefore making its play illegal at present in Rhode Island.
However, experts argue that the law could change in the near future and there are currently a handful of online poker sites accepting players from within the US who operate legally in states where online gambling is permissible and provide safe environments for their users.
Nevada provides another legal environment in which online poker is regulated, and has seen steady growth since 1996 when its legislative foundation was laid. Mobile gaming has only further proliferated the industry’s expansion. Experts estimate the market to be worth more than $10 billion today.
Although online poker may not seem like gambling to most people, it can still be seen as a form of skill-based gambling. This is mainly because making decisions regarding card values and action that could help maximize your winnings is part of what defines this form of betting. Therefore, developing and practicing your strategy for optimal results.
Online poker can be both entertaining and gambling at once; its convenience makes it an appealing option for those interested in gambling but don’t wish to travel far or spend an excessive amount. Playing is easy-peasy with only an internet connection needed for playback; anyone from beginners to advanced gamers will quickly pick it up and join in the fun!