While the halcyon days of online poker may have passed during the noughties, the game retains a cult and dedicated following across the globe.
Because of this, there remains a large number of active poker networks and sites, each of which offers its own distinct games’ libraries, software and welcome bonuses.
Navigating this market can prove challenging, however, especially when it comes to selecting licensed and reputable sites. But how can you identify the best poker sites and networks in your jurisdiction? Let’s find out!
Game and Tournament Diversity and Buy-ins
Poker rooms tend to put their range of game and tournament variations up front and center, but many libraries look similar to one another. This can make it hard to make an informed selection over time.
However, if you’re a casual player, sites that offer a diverse range of Texas Hold ‘em and Omaha variations should be prioritized. Similarly, try to find cash games with buy-ins that suit your bankroll as you look to wager within your means and minimize loss over time.
The same principle applies to tournaments. Be sure to prioritize sites that offer a diverse range of tournament types (including Sit and Go, Satellites and progressive bounties), too, especially those that you prefer.
Buy-ins can vary wildly in tournament play, depending in part on the number of players and winners’ prize, but careful consideration is once again key here.
Consider Bonuses and Promotions
Assuming that you’re wagering at a poker room with reputable software and a verifiable license, the next step is to compare the available range of bonuses and offers.
There are two key considerations here. Firstly, the rakeback offer is the most important reward, as some licensed brands offer related bonuses of up to 33%. The rakeback refers to a rebate or refund of the total rake taken by a specific poker room, while it usually scales in line with how much you wager.
In terms of welcome bonuses, poker rooms may leverage first or multiple deposit matches as part of a lucrative offer. This will match a predetermined number of deposits up to a predetermined value, although such offers are usually subject to wagering requirements that will determine the affordability of a bonus.
On a final note, just remember that some poker room bonuses can only be accessed through a fixed deposit and unique promo codes. You can usually search for GGPoker promo codes and those from alternative brands online, and entering these accurately is incredibly important.
Appraising Traffic and Fish
Finally, it’s important to wager at poker sites with significant traffic volumes. This ensures a large number of players and potentially more sizable pots, although it stands to reason that this may also attract more competitive and skilled performers.
However, traffic may not be the most important consideration for novice or casual players, while it’s also one of several metrics that may be used to appraise the quality and appeal of a room.
If you’re a more seasoned and skilled poker player, large traffic numbers may also indicate a higher percentage of ‘fish’. Fish is a term used to describe poker players who are inexperienced and likely to lose money during games.
There’s an old saying which suggests that “if you can’t spot the fish in your first half-hour at the table, you are the fish”, and expert players will look for games and tournaments where they can target easy money. Regardless, understanding your own level of skill and limitations is key if you’re to choose the right games and minimize losses!