Luck vs. Skill in Poker

The importance of luck as opposed to skill in poker has long been a matter of debate. Sometimes players win inexplicably, and this is often put down to a run of good luck. You will find many superstitious players who never sit in on a game without their ‘lucky’ medal or ‘magic’ scarf.

Most good poker players, however, feel that luck is just one of many factors involved in a game of poker, and it is skilful, thoughtful play that makes the difference between a winner and a loser. Well played poker, they believe, involves a lot more than worshipping at Fortune’s shrine. It involves knowing how to assess your cards, and being able to study the way your opponents play, and to be able to predict their game. An experienced player can estimate odds, and knows when to follow through on his or her cards, and when to fold. A good poker player is a master of bluff and strategy.

To conclude, it is fair to say that poker is certainly a game of skill. Chance, however, does have a part to play, even if we have no control over it. So good luck and happy poker!