Monday, December 17, 2007

The Newfound Popularity of an Old Favorite: Texas Hold 'Em

As we all know, poker has been rising in popularity over recent years, but Texas Hold 'Em is one incarnation of the game that has enjoyed particular attention. It is the most popular poker variant in American casinos. But why is that? It's an old game, but it's now played everywhere, from your neighbor's garage poker night to a televised event involving Hollywood celebrities.

One reason is that so much money can be lost or won in a single hand. It's much like how some sports aficionados theorize that soccer is not too popular in the U.S. because there isn't that much scoring. Americans get excited by big upsets and gains throughout a game.

Another reason may be that the game involves more strategy than a game like 7 Card Stud. Because you only start out with two cards and then share the rest with fellow players, you must accomplish more mathematical and psychological analysis.

It's also a game that can reward those with derring-do. Having the best hand does not necessarily win you the pot. If there is no showdown, the winner of the pot could be an excellent bluffer with a particularly bad hand. People can be bluffed into or out of their money with a single hand.

PokerChest has a wide range of Texas Hold 'Em supplies and games for lovers of this poker variant. For an especially authentic game, having a Texas Hold 'Em table or tabletop is a great enhancement. And when you're on your own, you can still improve your game by playing Texas Hold'Em video games or consulting Texas Hold 'Em instructional DVDs and booklets.

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