Poker has grown to become one of the most popular casino games in the world. The combination of strategy and skill attracts players who are looking for more than just a game of chance. It is therefore no surprise that the card game has taken the world of online gambling by storm.
However, online poker is not all about placing high stakes and raking in huge wins. In fact, you don’t need to play for cash at all. Would you rather play for fun without putting your hard-earned cash on the line? Let us take you through everything you need to know about playing free online poker games.
Why play free poker online?
While it’s safe to say the chance to land huge wins is the key motive for most online poker players, there are a number of reasons for which players play no risk, no reward games online. These games are perfect for those who want to practice, improve their bankroll management or simply play for fun.
Some players simply aren’t willing to put money on the line but love the game of poker. While there’s zero chance of landing a real money reward on a free game, it’s still a great way to have fun.
It’s also an excellent option for new players looking to learn the ropes too. If you’re a complete novice, it’s important to get familiar with the rules of the game as well its controls. Doing so while wagering real money stakes doesn’t bode well for your chances of landing a winner. Playing for free can really help to develop your game and can even teach you how to manage your bankroll. While there are no real money stakes involved, you’ll have virtual money to wager during a free game. Whether you’re using a well-known strategy or developing your own, this is a great way to practice before you step up to the real money poker rooms.
How to play free online poker games
- Compare and choose an online poker site
We’ve put together a list of our favourite online poker sites that feature free demo games in their libraries. These sites also feature great bonuses, rewarding promotions and of course, a number of the best real money poker rooms too. All you need to do is compare and pick out your favourite. - Sign up
Once you’ve picked out your perfect place to play poker, simply follow our link to register and become eligible for your exclusive bonus. You’ll need to provide a few personal contact details to create your account- it doesn’t take long! - Claim your bonus
Unless you’ve claimed a no deposit bonus, most other bonuses will require you to make your first deposit to claim your new customer bonus. This will come in handy if you decide to switch to the real money tables. - Play free poker
You’ll be able to choose from your online poker site’s selection of free poker games. So what will it be, Texas Hold’em or Seven Card Stud? Good luck!
What else do I need to know?
Texas Hold’em
There are many different types of poker but they all follow a similar pattern of betting or bluffing on the hand that you have been dealt. Most online poker games are based on the popular Texas Hold’em format. In this game, each player is dealt two cards, which are not revealed to the other players. As five community cards are revealed, each player must try to combine them into a winning hand and place bets or fold according to the strength of their hand. Alternatively, they can bluff their opponents into thinking they have a strong hand by continuing to bet or raising the stakes.
Poker Hands
The outcome of a round of poker is always determined by the strength of your hand. Before you try your hand at your favourite poker game online, you need to understand the rankings of different poker hands.
Here’s a comprehensive list of poker hand rankings, in order from highest to lowest value:
- Royal Flush: The five top value cards in sequence and of the same suit.
- Straight Flush: Five cards in sequence of the same suit.
- Four of a Kind: Four cards of the same number and any other card.
- Full House: Three cards of the same number and two cards of another number.
- Flush: All cards of the same suit.
- Straight: All cards in sequence but of different suits.
- Three of a kind: Three cards of the same value plus two cards of different values.
- Two Pair: Two pairs of different value plus any other card.
- Pair: A pair of the same value plus cards all of different value.
- High card: When no other combinations are formed, the highest card counts.
Compare and play free poker
Want to play poker without breaking the bank? Check out our list of top online poker sites with free games – it’s packed with the biggest and best brands as well as a few newcomers too. All you need to is compare, sign up and play!
