Poker is a card game that is played between two or more players. It is a game of chance, but the long-run expectations of players are determined by decisions they make based on probability, psychology, and game theory.

Unlike a game like chess, where all information is available at any time, poker deals with hidden information. This makes the game more realistic, and mirrors real life. Players will make decisions before all the information is known, and this is reflected in how much money they win or lose.

The game is very fast, with a lot of action and many betting rounds. Most games are played at home with friends, and there are a number of local tournaments held in bars, community centers, and other venues. These tournaments are called “locals” or “weeklies,” and they are the first step for many new players to join the competitive scene.

There are also large tournaments, with thousands of players in attendance. These are often part of a series of events that lead up to the World Series of Poker. The main difference between a tournament and a cash game is that a player must pay a fee, called a rake, to the poker site or room in order to participate in a tournament.

A good poker player is able to read their opponents and make the correct decision most of the time. This requires a high level of thinking, including an understanding of their table image. It is also important to know how to read the players at your own table.