7 stupid questions from a player who wants to play offline cash for the first time
“I want to play live poker but I have some social anxiety and am nervous about the process, would anyone mind walking me through the process of buying in and starting to play?
Sorry to ask this, but I have been an online player for the last two years and I’m in love with the game and really want to try live, but I’m so nervous.
Can anyone walk me through what will happen BEFORE I start playing. Once I’m dealt into the game I think I’ll be ok, but I don’t know what to expect when I’m buying in and sitting down”
This is how a discussion on a Reddit forum starts. We’ve collected 7 questions and compiled them into a guide for those who want to play offline for the first time.
1. Arriving at the Casino
Go to the cashier and purchase chips.
Find the floor manager (usually wearing a suit) and tell them you’re new and want to play at a specific stake level, like $1/2.
They will either direct you to a table or put you on a waiting list.
When it’s your turn, ask the floor manager for your table and seat number.
2. Buying Chips
Most casinos require you to buy chips at the cashier.
It’s good to buy more chips than you think you’ll need to avoid frequent trips to the cashier.
You can typically ask for specific denominations, or they will provide a standard mix.
For example, for $1/2, you might get four $25 chips.
Use one chip for the big blind, and the dealer will exchange it for smaller denominations.
Don’t be unreasonable with your requests, like asking for $1,000 in $1 chips.
3. Finding Your Seat
The floor manager will direct you to a table if a seat is open.
If not, they’ll put you on a waiting list and call you when a seat becomes available.
If unsure, ask the floor manager for clarification.