People play poker to have fun, prove their skills, or make money. Whatever your reason for trying your hand at one of the world’s most exciting and complex card games, it’s perfectly valid. However, be extra careful if you’re in it for the money.

Here are a few things to consider before taking your game from the virtual realm to that of tangible stakes:

It’s more challenging than it seems.

Even if you have the skill and confidence to play poker games for money, remember that there is a lot more risk involved than simply playing for fun. Know the ins and outs of the game, understand the odds, and be familiar with your opponents.

You need to know how to play the game in a way where you have the advantage. That takes time and effort, but it’s essential if you want a fighting chance in poker.

You also need money to make money in poker. It’s not a video game where someone gives you money at the start of your journey. Instead, you’ll be the one to fund your first foray into the game. It can be a considerable risk, as you might lose more money than you started with.

Finally, even if you have all the skills and financial resources to play poker, it’s important to remember that there is no guarantee of success. You could do everything right and still not win in the long run. That doesn’t mean you should give up, but it does mean that you need to be mindful of the risks and proceed with caution.

Poker has many variations.

As a game with a rich history, it should be no surprise that poker has had many interpretations through the years. Different card rooms and casinos will offer diverse game renditions with slightly changed rules. You need to understand every version you plan to play so you can adjust your strategy accordingly.

Among the many poker variations, the most frequently played ones include Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and 7-Card Stud. If you wish to make money by playing poker, you need to focus on these variations, as they are the most commonly played for cash.

You also need to learn at least two variations, so you can have a better idea of how to adjust your strategy when the game changes. Plus, knowing more than one variation means you can play more games, which means more chances of making money.

Lastly, consider that different rules mean additional risks, so you’ll have to play accordingly. For example, Texas Holdem is known for its high-action, fast-paced games. That means you need to be more aggressive with your betting and not just rely on luck. And when it comes to pot size, Omaha tends to have larger pots. While the rewards are higher, so are the risks.

Playing online has become a must.

With the recent increase in online poker’s popularity, more and more people are turning to this digital version of the game for their entertainment needs. Plus, this particular way of playing poker hands offers a variety of advantages that you won’t find in live games, such as lower costs, greater accessibility, and anonymity. That said, it’s important to remember that you still need the same skill and knowledge when playing online as you do in any other game version.

It also pays to be familiar with the rules of an online poker site before signing up. This way, you can ensure that it is a legitimate business, not a scam. The best sites will have clear rules, a responsive customer service team, and fair gaming policies. Be sure to read the fine print, so you know what to expect and can make an informed decision. The bottom line is that your choice of online poker site matters, so don’t just choose a random one you find online.

Poker is not just about money.

There’s nothing wrong with playing poker for money. After all, it is one of the best things you can do as a player. However, remember that it is also a game. It is meant to be enjoyed and appreciated in all its forms.

Even if you don’t get far in making money from poker, don’t let that discourage you from playing. There are plenty of other things to gain from participating in the thrills and travails that come with this awesome game. You get to sharpen your poker game skills, build friendships, and develop strategies to help you become a better player.

Lastly, it’s simply fun to play games for enjoyment’s sake from time to time. Doing so will allow you to relax, have fun, and even find new strategies to bring back to the games you play to earn. And even if these games don’t, that’s okay. What matters is that you enjoy yourself while playing. After all, poker can be entertaining and taken seriously.

It’s no walk in the park, but it’s worth it.

Before diving into the game as a way to earn, educate yourself on all the above mentioned factors. It’s all about managing your expectations and understanding that there are many things to consider. With the right attitude, clear thinking, patience, and practice, you can become a poker player who can perhaps turn your hobby into a fun and lucrative side hustle.