Playing live poker for the first time in a brick and mortar venue can be very intimidating. There are many players who have only had experience in home games and on virtual tables on the many on-line poker websites. Of course the basic rules of the game are still the same, assuming you’re playing in a sensible homegame, but walking into a friend’s kitchen couldn’t be more different than walking into casino.
First time live players often have the same concerns and questions. Some of the questions are as basic as ‘do I buy chips at the table or do I have to get them at the cashier?’ but there is also advice asked on how to quickly find which games are running and how many players are at the tables, how to find a seat, the best way to re-buy when busted and what to do when it’s time to leave the table.
Any casino or card room that has a membership process usually makes it very easy for a new player. They’ll assign a member of staff to take you around on an introductory tour where most of the mechanics will be explained. You’ll be shown the Brush - the employee in charge of assisting players with seating, waiting lists and buying chips - probably the most important to know, but it’s good to know your way around the place, including where the toilets are.
In many larger casinos, once you find the poker room and desk there often some sort of TV displays of games running and open seats. The employee manning the desk then will tell you how to get chips and whether you need to wait for staff to show you to an open seat. Just don’t be afraid to say you’re new and ask your questions. Remember that poker venues want you there - new players are the lifeblood of the place. But more importantly - remember to enjoy the game.
Carl “The Dean” Sampson plays poker at www.pokerstars.co.uk
