Poker Day: History | Poker Hands | Poker Face | Poker Books | Poker Movies |

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April 19th marks National Poker Day, a perfect opportunity to put on your best poker face and indulge in the thrill of poker. There are numerous variations of poker, each with its own rules, betting structures, and strategies. Some of the most popular variants include Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Seven-Card Stud, Five-Card Draw, and Razz. Additionally, there are countless regional and homegrown versions of the game played around the world, contributing to the rich tapestry of poker’s diverse landscape.

While its exact origins are shrouded in mystery, many game scholars point to early versions such as the French game ‘poque’ and the Persian game ‘As-Nas’ as possible predecessors. Despite debates among historians, poker has evolved into a global phenomenon, captivating players with its blend of skill, strategy, and luck. From its humble beginnings with only 20 cards to today’s standard deck of 52, poker has endured as a timeless pastime.

Essential Poker Hands: From Royal Flush to Single Pair

Understanding the value of poker hands is crucial for success at the table. Here’s a quick rundown from the highest-ranked hand to the lowest:

Royal Flush: A, K, Q, J, 10 of the same suit. Straight Flush: Five consecutive cards of the same suit. Four of a Kind: Four cards of the same rank. Full House: Three cards of one rank and two of another. Flush: Five cards of the same suit, not in sequence. Straight: Five consecutive cards of different suits. Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank. Two Pair: Two sets of two cards of the same rank. One Pair: Two cards of the same rank. High Card: When no player has any of the above, the highest card wins.

    Mastering the Poker Face: Tips for Keeping Your Cool

    A poker face is essential for bluffing and maintaining control over your opponents. Practice maintaining a neutral expression, controlling your breathing, and keeping your body language consistent. Remember, a strong poker face can be your most powerful weapon at the table.

    Poker Books

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    1. The Theory of Poker by David Sklansky – A comprehensive guide to poker strategy and game theory.
    2. Harrington on Hold ’em by Dan Harrington – Offers invaluable insights into Texas Hold ’em tournament play.
    3. Positively Fifth Street by James McManus – Blends poker strategy with the gripping tale of the author’s journey to the World Series of Poker.
    4. Molly’s Game by Molly Bloom – A memoir detailing the author’s experience running high-stakes poker games for Hollywood celebrities.
    5. Rounders by Kevin Canty – Follows the story of a reformed gambler drawn back into the world of underground poker.
    6. Big Deal: A Year as a Professional Poker Player by Anthony Holden – Chronicles the author’s attempt to make a living playing poker in Las Vegas.

    Top 10 Poker Movies (in no particular order)

    The Sting (1973) - Directed by George Roy Hill, starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford. While not exclusively about poker, it includes a memorable poker scene central to the plot.
    The Sting (1973) – Directed by George Roy Hill, starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford. While not exclusively about poker, it includes a memorable poker scene central to the plot.
    Mississippi Grind (2015) - Directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, starring Ben Mendelsohn and Ryan Reynolds. Follows two gamblers on a road trip through the American South in search of a big win.
    Mississippi Grind (2015) – Directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck, starring Ben Mendelsohn and Ryan Reynolds. Follows two gamblers on a road trip through the American South in search of a big win.
    Molly's Game (2017) Directed by Aaron Sorkin, starring Jessica Chastain and Idris Elba. Based on the true story of Molly Bloom, who ran exclusive poker games for the rich and famous.
    Molly’s Game (2017) Directed by Aaron Sorkin, starring Jessica Chastain and Idris Elba. Based on the true story of Molly Bloom, who ran exclusive poker games for the rich and famous.
    Rounders (1998) Directed by John Dahl, starring Matt Damon and Edward Norton. Follows a young poker player navigating the underground world of high-stakes poker.
    Rounders (1998) Directed by John Dahl, starring Matt Damon and Edward Norton. Follows a young poker player navigating the underground world of high-stakes poker.
    Casino Royale (2006) - Directed by Martin Campbell, starring Daniel Craig and Eva Green. Features a high-stakes poker game that serves as a central plot point in the James Bond film.
    Casino Royale (2006) – Directed by Martin Campbell, starring Daniel Craig and Eva Green. Features a high-stakes poker game that serves as a central plot point in the James Bond film.
    The Cincinnati Kid (1965) - Directed by Norman Jewison, starring Steve McQueen and Edward G. Robinson. Follows a young poker player seeking to establish himself as the best in the game.
    The Cincinnati Kid (1965) – Directed by Norman Jewison, starring Steve McQueen and Edward G. Robinson. Follows a young poker player seeking to establish himself as the best in the game.
    Maverick 1994
    Maverick (1994) – Directed by Richard Donner, starring James Ganer, Mel Gibson, and Jodie foster. William Goldman’s comedy western puts poker front and center.
    Croupier (1998) - Directed by Mike Hodges and starring Clive Owen. The film follows Jack, an aspiring writer who discovers the life of a croupier would make a great novel.
    Croupier (1998) – Directed by Mike Hodges and starring Clive Owen. The film follows Jack, an aspiring writer who discovers the life of a croupier would make a great novel.
    California Split (1974) - Directed by Robert Altman, starring George Segal and Elliott Gould. Explores the ups and downs of a friendship forged through a shared love of gambling.
    California Split (1974) – Directed by Robert Altman, starring George Segal and Elliott Gould. Explores the ups and downs of a friendship forged through a shared love of gambling.
    High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story (2003) - Directed by A.W. Vidmer, starring Michael Imperioli and Michael Nouri. Chronicles the turbulent life of legendary poker player Stu Ungar.
    High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story (2003) – Directed by A.W. Vidmer, starring Michael Imperioli and Michael Nouri. Chronicles the turbulent life of legendary poker player Stu Ungar.

    Posted on by Basic Betty