The Online Poker Phenomenon

The poker we all play today is believed to have originated in Asia and was first played in the United States in the 19th century. It prospered in the gambling saloon in general, especially in the floating saloon also know as the Mississippi Steamers. From the middle of the 19th century poker experienced rapid changes and innovation as it became more widespread through the upheavals of the Civil War. In 1970 poker had become so widespread that the World Series of Poker was started and is still going strong in this day and age.

Poker is a five-card game played with standard playing cards. The players bet as to who holds the best card combination by progressively raising the stakes. The player with the strongest hand of cards or the last player who remains in the game without folding wins all of the stakes. There are many different variations of poker, the most widely known being Texas Hold'em and Stud Poker.

Nowadays a person doesn't just have to go to a casino to enjoy the thrills of poker; there are many different websites that host poker games online. This online poker playing has spread throughout the world because it allows people to quickly learn to play and bet in real time. Online poker websites have games for the beginner, intermediate, and even the person who wants to bet real money.

Unlike poker played at a real table, poker played on the Internet prompts you as to which actions you can take on your turn. There is even a program that will let you customize your own character and play 3D with other players in real time. Whether you are there just to have a good game, or you're there to bet it all, online poker is the next revolutionized game to hit the net.