There is no other game of chance like poker. According to its fans, the classic card game is the ultimate.
It offers drama, tension and unpredictability with every hand. You’re not playing against a faceless casino – poker games are the best at pitching the individual players against each other.
It’s a game to sort beginners from the pros.
Who is the most experienced? Who has the coolest temperament? Who can keep their nerve?
Little wonder that poker has transferred into the online casino world with such success. The traditional game of dimly-lit backrooms and smoky bars has received a whole new lease of life.
It’s no exaggeration to say that thanks to the online casinos, poker has become a global internet phenomenon.
Today many players take their poker very seriously indeed. Unlike any other game of chance, like roulette or slots, a poker game can stay in your mind long after the cards and chips have been cleared away.
That’s why more and more poker fans and players are interested in collecting accessories to do with their favourite pastime.
Yes it’s fun but it’s also a way of showing that poker is a little bit more than just another simple game of cards.
We talked to poker insiders to find what accessories and extras are available. Here’s the experts’ pick of the best poker buys:
Poker chips
of course, some betting markers are essential for the game to be played. You might use anything from matchsticks to real money. Many get their own distinctive chips instead. They are available to buy in many different materials, including clay, wood, ceramics and plastic – and in different weights, colours and sizes too.
The ultimate accessory however is having your own customised poker chips featuring your name or logo. That’s an extremely cool way of announcing how seriously you take the game.
Poker playing cards
that’s one ingredient any real-life game is definitely going to need. Look for sets that are strong, smooth and durable. But how about pulling out a stylish pack of your own cards – featuring your own design or logo?
A dealer button
It’s helpful to remember who is the dealer in any physical poker session. That’s why a dealer button comes in very handy. Why not get your own and keep it handy for the next serious poker session?
A quality poker table
this is a great way of showing your attitude to the world’s best game. Getting hold of a real poker table would make you a very popular poker pal.
It could be completely dedicated to playing the game and help to create the right atmosphere for poker. Of course there are different shapes and sizes available. And what surface suits you best – classic soft green baize or a slick shiny wood top?
A card shuffler
Nothing says ‘professional player’ like a special card shuffler. That’s what you’ll see at many bricks-and-mortar casinos – so why not have one ready for your own games? Whether you choose a manual or automatic shuffling machine, there won’t be any more arguments about who shuffled the deck – and what a lousy job they did!
A card protector
Have you seen these in action? They are often seen at the big poker tournaments.
A card protector is a small weighty disk that sits on top of your cards to prevent them being accidentally exposed or scattered. They can feature all sorts of cool symbols. Browse what’s available for sale online – or design your own.
Poker tutor or handbook
The best poker books can make you a better player. It’s a way of tapping into the experience of some of the world’s top players.
Learning from the professionals is a great way of improving the way you play.
Poker timer
Want to keep track of how long each hand or round is taking? Or want to raise your sessions to the tournament level?
Pro sessions may use a timer to limit the decision time and make hands move more smoothly.
Poker hoodie
This could never be called an essential but it could keep you warm during a late night session. Extra good factors are that you can have it customised with any design, logo or slogan you want.
And could there be an advantage in pulling up your hood and keeping your expression partly hidden?
Poker software
One of the best ways to improve your poker playing is to use poker software. Find one of the programs that allows you to study and analyse your game.
Don’t forget that whatever accessories you consider the decisions you make during the game will still be yours alone. That’s the beauty of poker – but it’s also the brutal truth. Fancy table and monogrammed cards may look very stylish – but they won’t necessarily make you luckier!