Why the hell would anyone wanna play poker for fun? That's pointless. If people aren't gonna put their money on the line, then what will stop them from playing erratically, or some would they wouldn't usually, and what'll keep them from going all-in like every hand? There's no consequence for playing dumb then. Sorry, I just don't get it. I try and play poker once a week, and a cash game is fun when I'm doing well. It's gotta be for cash.
I play at pokerroom all the time for fun. But I play EXACTLY as I would if it were real to practice for real cash games. In about a month I have turned 1K in to 40K... Good practice, especially for 1/2 or 2/4 no limit games. Here is what I have heard regarding illegal games. Public places are a no-no, even if they are not getting a rake. There was a bar that got busted recently up north just for having the turney in their establishment. All they got from it was guys buying sandwiches and beer. Private Homes, on the other hand are slightly different. If the house is NOT taking a rake anbd is a private residence it is not illegal. (NOTE: This is my understanding. If you think I'm wrong, please let me know.)
LEGAL poker games in Houston can be found at the link below but not all games are listed here. Most listed here are tounraments and if you are looking for ring games you will have to fine some illegal card rooms which are not that hard to find once you start getting into the poker sceen. Go to one or two of the tournaments listed on on pokercampus and once you get to know the guys there they can get you into the card rooms. I know of quite a few illegal card rooms on the northside if you are interested in ring games but they are mostly 10/20 or 20/40 limit but you can find a few 2/4 PL games as well. Send me an e-mail if interested in those. www.pokercampus.com
