Hosting a virtual poker night with friends is a fantastic way to get your regular card game fix even when you can’t meet in person. With the appropriate preparation and some simple ground rules, your online poker tournament at LuckyOnes Casino can rival the fun and excitement of your best in-person games.
Choose the Right Virtual Poker Platform
The foundation of a smooth virtual poker night is selecting a platform that’s easy to set up while still delivering a quality gaming experience. Here are the top options to consider:
- WSOP.com: The official online home of the World Series of Poker also provides home game creation for up to 10 players. Its clean design keeps focus on the table without unnecessary distractions.
- Zoom Poker: This newer platform stands out for its video chat feature that keeps players face-to-face even when gaming remotely. It brings an added social element to virtual poker night.
- Facebook Gameroom: If your poker crew are all active Facebook users, consider Facebook’s Gameroom platform. It allows easy player invites directly through your FB friend network.
Set the Stakes
Once your virtual venue is secured, decide what style of poker event you want to host. Are you playing just for bragging rights or will you play for real money?
- For casual fun without cash on the line, a tournament structure works well. Offer a small prize to the overall winner, like a trophy or gift card to an online retailer.
- If playing for cash stakes, confirm betting limits and payout structures before game night so there are no money disputes.
- For larger groups, consider having players buy in for tournament chips, then pay out final table players based on chip counts. Apps like PayPal, Venmo or Cash App make settling up easy.
Cash games and sit-and-go formats also work well for online poker nights. Just be clear about format, stakes and payouts ahead of time so players can prepare their bankrolls accordingly.
Set the Table Rules
To keep your virtual poker night running smoothly, establish rules around gameplay basics like site access, table chatter and disconnects:
- Send log-in credentials and site access info to players well ahead of start time so everyone can get set up and seated without delay.
- Make clear whether table talk is allowed or players should refrain from chatting during hands to avoid collusion.
- Set a time bank limit for disconnects and rebuys after a certain period to keep action moving.
- Consider using the app ChipMeUp for cash games. It tracks each player’s stake outside of the poker site to simplify buy backs and cash outs after hours of play.
Amp Up the Excitement
Once gameplay formalities are addressed, focus the rest of your prep on planning fun overlays to make the night truly memorable for all involved.
Dress Up the Scene
- Encourage silly hats, dark sunglasses or funky headbands to set the festive mood.
- Display your best card shark poster or neon sign as an eye-catching backdrop.
- Deal yourself a fancy dealer button and deck your virtual background with poker paraphernalia.
Enhance the Atmosphere
- Curate a killer tournament playlist, from AC/DC to Lady Gaga to keep energy levels high.
- Serve snacks and drinks that play into the casino theme like pretzels, peanuts and whiskey sours.
- Consider awarding prizes like trophy mugs or branded t-shirts to final table players or the overall chip leader.
Keep the Party Going
Schedule intermission entertainment like trivia, karaoke or a dance off to avoid lulls in play. Just be sure to agree on a clear time limit so players stay focused on the felt.
If hosting multiple tables, name each tournament lobby after a famous casino. Appoint chip leaders as table captains responsible for rallying table chat and revelry. A little friendly competition between tables will raise the excitement all night long.
With the right mix of competitive play and social energy, your crew will be eager to RSVP yes again as soon as your next virtual poker night invite pops up! Just be prepared to up the ante on your production value so each event tops the last.
