For poker players, community is everything. Whether you’re looking to improve your skills, keep up with trends, discuss strategy, or just chat with like-minded players, finding the right online community can make a big difference. Here’s a roundup of some of the best online communities that poker players at every level can join to learn, share, and connect.
1. TwoPlusTwo Poker Forums
One of the oldest and most respected poker forums, TwoPlusTwo has been a hub for poker strategy discussions for nearly two decades. This forum covers everything from Texas Hold’em and Omaha to live tournament tips and poker lifestyle topics. Players at any level will find expert insights, and the archives are filled with valuable discussions on everything poker.
- Best For: Strategy discussions, advanced concepts, and a wealth of archived knowledge.
- Why Join: It’s a goldmine for both beginners and pros looking to delve into serious discussions with experienced players.
2. Poker Reddit Community (r/poker)
The r/poker subreddit is a lively community with players from all over the world. The subreddit covers a mix of topics, including general poker discussions, game analysis, and industry news. With frequent posts, r/poker stays active, and you’ll find everything from beginner questions to deep-dives on complex strategies.
- Best For: Casual discussions, sharing poker stories, and staying up-to-date on poker trends.
- Why Join: If you’re looking for a casual, diverse poker community, Reddit’s r/poker offers a relaxed vibe with quick responses.
3. PokerStrategy.com
PokerStrategy is both a community and a learning platform, offering guides, strategy articles, and a forum for players. Their forums cover specific game types and player levels, with targeted advice based on experience. They also offer quizzes and personalized coaching options for serious players aiming to sharpen their skills.
- Best For: Structured learning, strategy breakdowns, and professional-level insights.
- Why Join: PokerStrategy combines community with structured learning, making it ideal for players who want guidance alongside interaction.
4. CardsChat Poker Forum
CardsChat is a beginner-friendly forum that has grown to cover nearly every aspect of poker, including strategy, industry news, and social discussions. The community is supportive, and you’ll find a good mix of beginner tips and advanced strategy advice. CardsChat also hosts freerolls and tournaments for members, making it a fun place to hone your skills while playing.
- Best For: New players looking to learn and connect in a supportive environment.
- Why Join: CardsChat is welcoming and has special incentives like freerolls and tourneys for members, which can help players gain hands-on experience.
5. Upswing Poker Lab
The Upswing Poker Lab is a training community run by poker pros, including Doug Polk. While primarily a paid learning platform, the Upswing Poker Lab offers a robust community for members where they can interact directly with professional players and learn advanced strategies. It’s a great option for serious players looking to take their game to the next level with in-depth training.
- Best For: Advanced players willing to invest in professional-level strategy training.
- Why Join: The Upswing Poker Lab community offers unparalleled access to expert advice, making it ideal for players committed to leveling up their game.
6. Poker Discord Servers
Discord has become a popular platform for poker communities, offering real-time chat with text and voice channels for discussing everything from strategy to live game sweat sessions. While some servers are general poker communities, there are also private, invite-only groups where players can discuss high-level concepts and strategies.
- Best For: Real-time discussion and active engagement.
- Why Join: Discord’s structure allows you to interact live with players, making it great for spontaneous discussions and quick advice.
7. PocketFives
PocketFives is a community focused on online poker, particularly for tournament players. Members often share their tournament scores, track rankings, and engage in discussions about strategies specifically tailored to online play. With its emphasis on online tournaments, PocketFives is a standout for those looking to make a mark in the online poker world.
- Best For: Online poker players focused on tournaments.
- Why Join: PocketFives has a leaderboard system and ranks top online players, making it perfect for those wanting to track and improve their competitive standing.
8. PokerGO Community
For fans of live poker tournaments and televised games, PokerGO offers a community aspect where players discuss major tournaments, streaming content, and poker news. While it doesn’t offer the strategy focus of other communities, it’s a great place for fans to talk about the latest events and shows.
- Best For: Fans of televised poker and live tournaments.
- Why Join: PokerGO is perfect for staying up-to-date on major tournaments and connecting with other poker enthusiasts.
9. Facebook Poker Groups
Facebook hosts numerous poker groups, from broad communities like “Poker Life” to more specialized groups focused on local games, online tournaments, or specific poker strategies. While these groups can be hit-or-miss, they offer a way to connect with local players, find games, and stay updated on industry trends.
- Best For: Networking, local games, and casual interactions.
- Why Join: Facebook groups offer a variety of poker topics and are a convenient way to network with players of all skill levels.
10. Run It Once
Founded by poker pro Phil Galfond, Run It Once combines training videos and articles with a community forum for members. The site features top-notch training materials for all levels, along with a strong forum where members share advice, discuss hands, and offer each other insights.
- Best For: Players serious about improving their skills with professional guidance.
- Why Join: Run It Once offers a unique mix of training and community, and its focus on in-depth improvement makes it a favorite for skill-focused players.
11. BeatTheFish
BeatTheFish is a comprehensive resource for online poker players, offering strategy tips, in-depth reviews, and a community of poker enthusiasts who discuss everything from bankroll management to tournament play. The site includes a wealth of resources, including articles, tutorials, and an interactive forum for poker players to connect and share insights.
- Best For: Players looking for strategy tips, site reviews, and tournament advice.
- Why Join: BeatTheFish offers a great combination of strategic resources and community support, ideal for players looking to sharpen their skills and make informed decisions about where to play.
Each of these communities offers something unique, from detailed strategy analysis to casual discussions and real-time chat options. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, joining one or more of these groups can help you learn, improve, and connect with fellow poker enthusiasts around the world. With so many resources available, poker players of all levels can find a community that fits their needs, helping them stay engaged and informed in the ever-evolving world of poker.
