Poker Showdown: Public Poker vs. Private Poker
When I first started playing poker, all of my games were of the private variety, which I would guess was the same for about ninety-nine percent of new players who started ‘back in the day.’ I’m sure that percentage has changed dramatically with the advent of online poker. Today, we will ignore online poker and examine the differences between playing poker in private games at someone’s home or in clubs versus playing poker in public cardrooms or casinos. There are advantages as well as disadvantages to each venue.
Home and Private Games Upsides
Let’s first look at some of the upsides of playing in-home or private games.
Social Interaction
While poker home games must recruit new players to sustain themselves constantly, the core players usually know one another well. There is a high degree of camaraderie, and the social aspect is a key part of any home game. While serious poker may well be played, there is also a definite social atmosphere, including telling jokes and the inevitable teasing and jousting. Laughs, a good time, and poker are ideal for recreational players.
Rakes and Tokes
Many home games ask for some participation in funding the cost of snacks and drinks, but most do not have a rake or expect the dealer to be toked. After all, in a game where the deal rotates around the table, everyone has his chance in the ‘box.’ Some regular home games turn their venue, and each player must host. Then the night’s cost falls on the host, but in the long run, it all evens out.
Knowing Player Tendencies
Poker home games, some of which go on for decades, have the same core players at every game. This fact can be a huge advantage to the serious, observant student of the game. Knowing your competition so well can provide you with information to make solid decisions. Over the years, I have played in many poker home games and have always been amazed at the number of regular participants who don’t seem to file this kind of information away for future use. Remember, I referenced serious, observant students of the game, not all participants.
Goals
Many players in home games are not focused, hard-core players striving to make a profit but are there for the aforementioned social aspects and enjoyment of playing cards with their friends. If they win, great, but if they lose, they consider it a small price to pay for the fun of the evening. This, of course, depends upon the stakes which are being played.
Home and Private Games Downsides
Now, let’s look at some of the downsides to these games.
Lack of Choice
Even though many poker home games are played as the dealer’s choice, you are only assured of playing your game of choice once every round. The group’s choice of playing stakes may not be yours either, but as they say … it may be the only game in town.
Legality Issues
You may reside in a location that considers playing poker for money illegal. Most home players do not worry much about this since they play in their or a friend’s home. I read with amazement some time ago that there was a police raid on a senior citizen’s home where the residents had instituted a $.05 and $.10 poker game in their clubhouse. I’m predisposed to support poker, but even if you are anti-poker, wouldn’t you think the police would have more important tasks than breaking up a nickel-and-dime poker game played by a group of octogenarians?
Safety Issues
The safety of poker home games is another issue that most players do not concern themselves with. This also can factor in how high the stakes are and how many strangers are allowed in. A word of advice … if you’re uncomfortable in a new private game for whatever reason … leave!
Cheating
Unbelievable as it may sound, cheating is more prevalent in private poker games than in public cardrooms. A plaque on my game room wall reads Trust everyone but always cut the cards. I believe that is sound advice coupled with always remaining observant, and as cited above, if you’re uncomfortable in a new private game for whatever reason… leave!
These upsides and downsides to playing in home and private poker games are not meant to be all-inclusive but to highlight the most important ones.
Public Poker
Now, let’s briefly examine the advantages of playing in a legal public venue.
Availability
While poker home game players pine all week waiting for their Friday night poker fix, public cardroom games are usually available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. The game is always there, just waiting for you to arrive!
Coming and Going
Since the game is always there and you’re not necessarily playing with friends and family, you can quit when you want. You can play a short poker session or a long one… your choice. You can also perform what could get you ostracized in a home game… the ‘hit and run. ‘ Catch lightning in a bottle for an hour, rack it up, and leave to return another day. Instead of hearing your friends grumble, all you’ll hear is, “Seat open on table six.”
Most of public poker’s remaining advantages and disadvantages are the mirror image of the subjects covered under home and private games. On a personal note, before I moved some ten years ago, my poker playing time was probably about ninety percent home games based on my area of residence. That has changed in the last decade to be one hundred percent public poker. I must say, I miss the old home games with their camaraderie and mix of unique poker games. I guess you can’t have everything!
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between playing at home or private poker games versus legal public venues ultimately depends on one’s preferences and priorities. Each option offers its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Home and private games provide a sense of camaraderie and the opportunity to enjoy unique poker variants with friends and family.
However, they may lack the convenience and availability of public cardrooms, which offer round-the-clock access and the flexibility to come and go as you please. While both options have merits, weighing these factors carefully and choosing the best setting for your poker-playing style and preferences is essential. Whether you opt for the intimate gatherings of home games or the bustling atmosphere of public poker, one thing remains certain – the love for the game transcends the setting, and poker enthusiasts will always find a way to enjoy their favorite pastime.
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