Poker is one of the most popular card game in the world which unarguably entertains as well as challenges player’s ability to observe and analyze the situation and make quick decisions.
Here are some widely unknown but interesting facts about poker that will leave you amazed.
Origin of the game
There are many theories about the origin of the word “Poker”. As per some historians, the game is evolved from a domino-card game played by a Chinese emperor in 10th Century. The name “poker” might also be derived from French game “Poque” or German “Pochen”.
The longest poker game
The longest poker game started in 1881 and ran 24×7 for 8 years, 5 months, and 3 days which was held at the Bird Cage Theatre in Tombstone, Arizona.
Player who won maximum WSOP bracelets
Phil Hellmuth won the WSOP bracelet 14 times (1989, 1992, 1993 (3 times), 1997, 2001, 2003 (2 times), 2006, 2007, 2012, 2012 (WSOP Europe), and 2015).
Hand that named after a tennis player
In Hold’em, Starting hand A K is named after former tennis player Anna Kournikova. It means “the hand that looks better than it plays”.
It was not started with 52 Cards
In the beginning, the game was played with deck of 20 cards. Only 4 players could play on one table. Every player was dealt with 5 cards and they bet on who had the best 5 cards.
Most popular gaming destination in India
Goa carries the reputation of being poker players’ paradise. This state is the home of several popular poker rooms in India. Players from all over the country as well as international players visit Goa to participate in cash games and tournaments in this luxurious poker rooms.
Dead man’s hand
The hand with two pairs (black aces & black eight) is known as dead man’s hand as American folk hero Wild Bill Hickok was playing this hand in a poker game when he was shot in the back of his head.
Most watched sport
After soccer and car racing, poker is the third most viewed and talked about sport on American television.
The four kings
As per common believe, the four kings on modern cards represent historical figures i.e. King of clubs is Alexander (King of Macedonia), King of hearts is Charlemagne (King of France), King of spades is David (King of Israel), and King of Diamonds is Augustus (Roman Caesar).
Possible hand combinations
You can create 2.5 million hand combinations from a deck of 52 cards.
Underwater poker
You can play poker underwater among real sharks at Lady Luck underwater poker tournament in Florida. It is an annual tournament where winners of the qualifying rounds play the final hands underwater with special cards and chips. The winner will receive the champion’s trophy, prizes, and fame. You can participate in this Texas Hold’em tournament for free (no buy-ins or re-buys).
Bonus fact:
Las Vegas Casinos have no clocks or windows on the gaming floor as they believe that players spend longer hours on the table if they lose track of time.