Is Poker Really a Game of Skill?

The Webster Dictionary of the English Language defines the word "gamble" as follows: "to play at any game of chance for stakes; to risk money or anything of value, on the outcome of something involving chance". In accordance with this definition, we have to assume that poker, like any other casino game, is a gambling game.

Skill Games

In order to be considered a game of skill, the participants in a game must all begin with the same "chance". For example, in the game of chess, both contestants start out with the same number of pieces in the exact same set up. They must use their skills in order to reach the winning "check mate". Even if bets were to be made on which will be the winner, it is still completely a game of skill.

Is Poker Gambling?

In Poker, whether it be 5-Card Stud, Draw Poker, Texas Hold'em, or even 3 Card Poker, the participants do not begin the game with the same cards. The dealing of the cards, the cards received by each player, is the "chance". Therefore, any wagers or bets involved immediately turn the game into a gamble.

Using the above definition, some may say that betting on horse races is not gambling because the horses all start together at the gate at the beginning of the race. However, the horses are not identical in speed, stamina, size or even in the jockeys who ride them. Again, betting on the outcome becomes gambling.

Poker Skills

Many professional poker players will tell you how much skill is involved in the game. It requires intense concentration, huge control over facial and body language, a very good memory, perhaps to include card counting, and patience. Although all of these desired characteristics may add up to poker "skills", the essence of the game is that all the players are betting on the "chance" or "risk" of the cards that will be dealt to them and/or exchanged after the first deal.

All things considered, I must conclude, despite the arguments and controversies, that poker and all its variations are really and truly gambling. However that doesn't detract from the fun and excitement of playing the game.