As I mentioned I am not a hardcore poker player but I do watch the World Series of Poker on ESPN and other tournaments at times. And I realize that there is some experience and "skill" involved. I suppose strategy is also a part of the game. Which includes anticipation but also flat out guessing and risk taking. Thus the term gambling.
However the other day I was watching a 9 time Champion, who is such a blowhard clown I won't mention his name, complain because he was beaten by what he says were the worst poker players he has ever faced. I have a hard time making sense of that. Also this is not the first time I have seen a better player get beat and say "that's not poker" or "that's not how you play."
Excuse me. If lying or bluffing is involved than isn't doing the unexpected or even something so called stupid a rational move? I mean isn't that a strategy? Who would expect you to do something dumb on purpose? Isn't that what a bluff is usually? Betting on a hand that you shouldn't making the other(s) think you have something you don't?
Oh and if some one is so bad at something, what does that say about you if they beat you?
So yes I believe there are different levels of poker players but really is skill and/or "intelligence" really that much of a factor? I mean this man has won 9 World Series of Poker so that means something. But what?
I just don't think it means what he wants it to mean. For one he plays all the time so he has a feel for the odds. Also he practices his lying, I mean bluffing at nauseum. Most of the winners are professional card players so they should win more often than an amateur. But how much more?
Doesn't it come down to patience and the hand you are dealt and the turn of the cards? Seriously. As long as you are not greedy or impulsive you can do fairly well. This isn't like a sport where you control a higher percentage of the outcome.
So you professionals stop your belly aching when a new comer or "regular Joe" kicks your pompous butt. It just wasn't your lucky day!
