How to Start Playing Crypto Poker: A Step-by-Step Guide
Crypto poker is fast growing in popularity, and rightly so. Imagine your favorite poker games with added advantages: enhanced privacy, lower fees, and faster transactions. Of course, if this is a whole new world for you, there is often that urge to dive in headfirst.
This step-by-step guide will go through every single minute detail, from setting up your crypto wallet all the way to making your first bet in a crypto poker game.
Meanwhile, I've been playing poker online for many years now. Only recently, I realized how incredibly tough the games are getting. The competition is tough, and being honest, the robotic, grinder style that you get on regular poker platforms has, quite frankly, begun to wear me out. I thus am quite excited about what could possibly be in store with crypto gaming.
I'm looking for softer games. It's where bankrolls are built and a more laid-back atmosphere that isn't devoid of the game's entertainment value.
With the crypto gaming market worldwide set to rise over 20% year on year, there has never been a better time to get involved and start playing crypto poker. If you're brand new to crypto poker as a concept, it might be worth reading my in-depth introduction to crypto poker before you begin investing time.
If you’re new to the concept of crypto poker, consider reading my comprehensive introduction to crypto poker before diving in.
Step 1: Setting Up a Crypto Wallet
Your first step into the world of crypto poker is through a crypto wallet. Your crypto wallet is where you'll store, send, and receive cryptocurrencies—in other words, it is your digital bankroll.
First off, you have to choose between two types of wallets: hot wallets or cold wallets.
- Hot Wallets: They are always online, and this basically makes it super easy to use for everyday transactions. If you're just getting into cryptocurrency, then a hot wallet would be something like Exodus; it's so easy to download and set up, and it is super easy to use. In yet another way, they are always online, meaning they do have a little bit of exposure to hackers.
- Cold Wallets: These exist outside of the internet; examples include Ledger or Trezor. For your crypto, especially if you're looking at holding a significant amount for an extended period, it's like a fortress. The downside? They're less handy for frequent transactions since you have to plug them in each time you want to use them.
How to Set Up Your Wallet:
Download and install the wallet of your choice; maybe Exodus for a hot wallet. You can download it either from its official website or through an app store.
Create an account by following the in-app setup process and making sure your password is strong and unique. This is your first line of defense.
Lock Down Your Wallet. For the love of all things good and holy, turn on 2FA. And for goodness's sake, write down the seed phrase of your wallet in some super-safe place. It is your lifesaver if you forget your password.
Insider's Tip: Never, ever share that seed phrase. If someone has it, it would take them seconds to wipe out your wallet.
Personally, I have started with a hot wallet because it's convenient, and that has worked for me quite well so far. If you're considering a cold wallet just for extra security, it's a great option, but not necessary right away.
What about you—what kind of wallet do you think suits your style? Drop me a message if you're not sure, and I can help you out.
Step 2: Buying Cryptocurrency
With your wallet all set up, it's time to fill it with some cryptocurrency. Once you've done this, you can start playing poker with Bitcoin or Ethereum.
Whether you're a complete crypto newbie or someone who is having a little experience, follow along below as we take the next step to get you seated at the tables.
Choose the Right Exchange If you want to buy cryptocurrency, then you'll have to make use of a crypto exchange.
Here are the things to consider:
- Popular exchanges would be user-friendly and secure services like Exodus, Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken. They can grant the buying of crypto with fiat currencies like USD or EUR through bank transfer, credit cards, and even PayPal.
- Verification: Most exchanges will require you to verify your identity before you can make a purchase. That usually means uploading a government-issued ID and maybe a selfie. It's an easy enough process, but it could take a little time, so be prepared.
Purchasing Cryptocurrency
How to buy Cryptocurrency once your account is created and verified, it's time to buy some crypto. The most used cryptocurrencies when it comes to poker include Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) due to their wide acceptance and reliability.
Here’s how to make your first purchase:
- A) Log in to your exchange account and click the "Buy" section.
- B) Choose your cryptocurrency: From the list, select Bitcoin, Ethereum, or whichever crypto you decide to go with.
- C) Amount: Decide on the amount you want to buy. If you are a beginner at crypto poker, then you will probably want to make a small purchase just to wet your feet.
- D) Payment Method: Through bank transfer, credit card, or whatever option is available. Note that the fee and processing time will depend on which one you use.
- E) Review Purchase: Double-check for everything before confirming your purchase.
For a detailed walkthrough, check out the Exodus youtube channel.
Transfer Crypto to Your Wallet
After purchasing your cryptocurrency, it’s important to transfer it from the exchange to your wallet. Keeping your funds on an exchange can expose them to potential security risks, so it’s safer to store them in your personal wallet.
Insider’s Tip: Note that not all wallets require this exchange step. If you purchased through Exodus, your crypto is already securely stored in your wallet—no need to transfer from an exchange.
Here's how to transfer your funds:
1 Copy your wallet's public address from your wallet app.
2 Go to the "Withdraw" or "Send" section of the exchange.
3 Paste your wallet address: Ensure you send the correct type of cryptocurrency to its specific wallet address. For example, if you intend to send Bitcoin to another Bitcoin wallet, ensure that it is a correct Bitcoin wallet address.
4 Enter the amount you intend to transfer and confirm.
5 Wait for confirmation: Depending on the cryptocurrency, it will take some minutes up to an hour to have it transferred.
That is it! Now your wallet has money inside, and you are closer to playing crypto poker. The next step, number three, will involve how to choose the best crypto poker platform.
Step 3: Choosing a Crypto Poker Platform
Now that you already have cryptocurrency, it is now time to find a proper place where you will use this in playing poker. The selection of the right website is important to ensure that this would be safe and enjoyable.
Key Factors:
- Reputation and Security: The environment should contain strong security methods like SSL encryption and two-factor authentication. Check reviews and player feedback to get an idea about the reliability of the platform.
- Game Variety and Stakes: First of all, check if the website offers your favorite type of poker games—be it Texas Hold'em, Omaha, or Stud—and whether the stakes fall within your budget. Some websites are designed purely for high rollers, and some are more low-key, beginner-oriented.
- User Experience: A great poker site should be easy to navigate; it's clean and has responsive support. Mobile support is a nice touch, too, especially if you're one of those players who like to play on the go.
My Recommended Crypto Poker Platforms to Get You Started:
- CoinPoker: For robust security it provides, the decentralized features, and wide variety of games, it serves both amateur and experienced users perfectly.
- BetPlay: Very easy to use, low-stakes games, making it excellent for beginners. It also has a great community and lots of tournaments.
How to Register
- Creating an Account: Go to the website of the service and click on 'Sign up' using your email address. Create a decent password.
- Verify Your Identity: Some services might want further verification; this most often involves submitting some kind of ID, especially if the site is more regulated.
- Link Your Crypto Wallet: Connect your crypto wallet with your poker account for sending and receiving funds, and to start playing.
Insider's Tip: Before depositing any money, take the time to get comfortable with the site via "play money" mode, if available.
Step 4: Making Your First Deposit
With your account setup, the next thing you do is to fund it, and then go ahead to get a feel of some poker using cryptocurrency. Easy as this process is, it does call for a degree of attention to detail.
How to Deposit Crypto
Head to Deposit Section: Head to the deposit section in any poker website after logging on.
Copy Wallet Address: The particular wallet address meant for depositing the cryptocurrency will be shown on the website; it should be copied out.
How to send your crypto from Wallet
Open crypto wallet, select the type of cryptocurrency to be sent, paste the wallet address provided by the platform, and the amount.
Reconfirm the address again before confirming your transaction.
Confirmation of transaction:
It might take anywhere between a few minutes to an hour depending on the cryptocurrencies.
Helpful Hint:
- Minimum deposit quantities: There is a minimum deposit quantity provided on the platform for end.
- Fees: Some sites will have charged fees on a deposit. Because of this, you need to factor that in when deciding how much you want to send.
Insider's Tip: Deposit a small amount to test the functionality that everything goes smoothly before transferring larger sums of money.
Step 5: Starting to Play
By funding your account, you are now all set to join a game and start playing. Here's how to get started:
How to Navigate the Platform
- View Games in the Lobby: Once you get to the Lobby, you'll be able to view a list of available games and tournaments. Browse through and find a table that you like regarding skill level and the budget you have.
- How to Join a Game: To view any table's details, simply click on one; you can get the details include the buy-in, number of players, and the kind of game. If everything looks fine, click "Join".
- Understanding the Interface: Get to know the betting buttons, the chat feature, and how to review your hand history.
Basic Strategy Tips:
- Low Stakes First: For any player still getting accustomed, it is always wise to play low-stakes games first. This minimizes your risk while learning.
- Bankroll Management: First, predefine your budget for a particular session. Lay down the limit and enter into it. Never chase your loss, and also, don't bet for more than what you can afford to lose.
- Read Your Opponents: Observe your competitors' ways of betting. Try to find out whether there is something more behind their move or not. It will keep you one step ahead of their strategy.
Insider's Tip: Keep your emotions in check, as poker is largely a mind game rather than a game of skill. Always stay focused and never let a bad beat throw you off.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
Congratulations! You are now equipped with what you need to know to get started playing crypto poker.
In summary, setting up your wallet, buying cryptocurrency, finding a trusted platform, and making your first deposit—you'll be ready to go on an exciting journey in crypto poker.
Remember, practice, patience, and knowledge are the keys. If you're eager to learn, check out my other posts for more tips and strategies. Also, feel free to share your experience or ask questions in the comments section below!
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