Today, many people play Poker for fun and do not even think that they can make money on this old and popular game. Regular Poker tournaments gather hundreds of professional Poker gamblers, and the winners become millionaires.

Origins and popularity of Poker as one of the most played games

There are many theories of the origin of Poker for fun. One of them claims that the game originated in the 900s in China, but at that time there were no cards in China. Researchers have discovered fragments of cards in Egypt that could have been made in the 12th or 13th century. Although there was no evidence that these cards were used for Poker, they may be related to another game.

However, the game (closely to the form we know it now) developed and reached Eastern Europe, where 20 cards were used for many games. Tarot laid the foundation for a deck of 52 cards. In Italy and Spain, they began to play improved versions of the Tarot, which, like the modern deck of cards, had four card suits. Card games were distributed throughout Europe.

There is another line of Poker development. French gamers played the so-called Poque (the 15th century). The game had bets and bluff. For the first time, the usual card suits for us were used – Hearts, Diamonds, Spades, and Clubs.

The French also have merits in popularizing this game in the colonies. It began to spread especially rapidly in the New World in the 18th century, when the French settlers settled in present New Orleans. During the Civil War, Poque became widespread in the United States, and newer versions of the game, known as Stud and Draw, appeared. Today, Poker for fun (as we know it) is played everywhere – at homes, Poker clubs and casinos.

Poker variations

Poker is a multifaceted card game, presented in dozens of variations. Some varieties have gained universal popularity, others are known less. Here are the most popular variants of Poker for fun and for money:

Texas Hold’em that is the most often chosen Poker for fun variant. Besides, thousands play it for real money;

7-Card Stud;

5-Card Draw;

Razz;

Omaha;

5-Card Omaha;

H.O.R.S.E.;

Triple Stud, etc.

Hold’em is considered to be the “classic” game variant. Those, who are eager to master this game, should start with this Poker type.

Why to play Poker free?

Poker belongs to intellectual games. Players, who master it, learn how to think logically, they also train their memory. Besides, playing Poker for fun at online casinos or simply with buddies, who also like it, one can become an experienced and skilled player. Later, he can register at a respected casino or a Poker room and play this game for money to win.