Online poker has become very popular over the past several years. With the advent of smartphone apps and tablets, people can now play this traditional card game anywhere, anytime. It’s also a fun way to make a few extra bucks and hone your skills. In fact, the US market for online poker is expected to reach $4 billion by 2021.
The best way to enjoy this exciting new game is to create an account with a poker operator of your choice. This will give you access to freerolls, which are tournaments that offer a chance to win real money. Some sites will offer sign-up bonuses that require you to play in the site’s own cash games before your bonus is awarded.
Licensed online poker sites have been regulated by the financial and gaming establishments to ensure that the integrity of the game is maintained. There are two main types of sites, including those that accept credit cards, wire transfers, and third-party eWallets. Many operators have free poker games as well, which are great for casual players.
The biggest draw is winning real money. Players can deposit as little as $50 or as much as $200. Those who play frequently earn frequent player points, which can be redeemed for bonuses. Most of the top sites collect between 3 and 4.25% rake.
One of the largest markets for online poker is California. However, the state must pass regulation before it can open its doors. When it does, it’s likely that Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New Jersey will follow suit.
The other big news is that the game is now legal in Nevada, which became the first state to officially legalize online poker. As of now, the state’s players have access to two poker sites, WSOP and 888. These sites are the only ones in the US to boast a multi-state network.
The game is also accessible via tablets, laptops, and smartphones. A player needs only a stable Internet connection to access the game. Depending on the site, some may require you to download software on your device.
A few companies have been accused of violating the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act, a federal law that makes it illegal to process payments relating to online gambling. However, a few of the top companies have remained operational in spite of the law.
Despite the federal government’s efforts to block the game, the industry is catching on. Recently, online poker revenues topped $4 million per month, which is an increase of nearly 50% in the last year. Hopefully, this trend will continue as more states legalize the game.
While it’s true that a lot of money has been lost to scam artists and inexperienced gamblers, online poker has also helped spur the growth of poker in this country. The latest data indicates that poker is one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S. and could be on its way to $3 billion in annual revenue.