Is Poker Gambling? Learn If Poker Is Considered Gambling or a Game of Skill

When Amanda Botfeld first published her book A Girl’s Guide to Poker, people would always ask if she was a big gambler.

Her response? “I don’t gamble—I just play poker.”

Although it was a spunky and fun remark, the honest answer to the question is poker gambling or skill demands more explanation.

Keep reading to determine once and for all if poker is considered a gambling game.

Short-term vs Long-term Luck: Beginner vs Pro

Poker clearly has an element of luck—but it changes over time.

Let’s say you have NEVER played poker before. You are an absolute beginner learning how to play poker for the first time.

What do you think your likelihood is of winning a hand against one of the best professional poker players in the world?

  1. 20%
  2. 30%
  3. 50%

Believe it or not, the answer is closest to 50 percent!