Online poker has really caught the attention of people throughout the world to the point we now have tournaments that start both online and in hotels, pubs and clubs and culminate in national and even world tournaments. There are several online poker sites that are now associated with the WPT – or World Poker Tour – and as such conduct qualification tournaments for these events.

Some sites go even further. PartyPoker, for example, has an online poker academy which provides new players, or those wanting to learn more about the game, access to a large library of articles and ebooks on the subject. PartyPoker also uses a player ranking system so you know that those around you at the table are ranked around the same level as you.

Is ranking important? For new players it can be. There is nothing worse than sitting at a table and then being wiped out within the first fifteen minutes – this often happens when the other players are highly experienced and can ’smell’ newbies around them. By playing with others who have the same experience and skill as you gives you a fairer chance to learn, and perhaps win. At least you’re not at the mercy then of the pros.

Online poker is a lot of fun. It involves skill and tactics that keep your brain on edge all the time and there is always a surprise move being made. Learning to play using an online poker academy through an online poker site that allows players to play at their skill level is a smart move for novices. Check out what PartyPoker has to offer – and for French players, there is a PartyPoker.fr site dedicated to your needs.