Holdem Software

I have Poker Academy and love it. It lets you adjust table structure and type of opponents so that you can practice different types of Holdem without paying for the lessons like you would playing for cash. The computer opponents are pretty solid and have a nice variety.

Any advice on computer based software (not stuff like poker stars fee money)? Which is the best? I see it as a lot better than the online play money tables because it isnt filled with people calling wih 2,6.

I have only played DD Tournament Poker for PC, and the AI on that is actually pretty good. Costs $30.

http://www.ddpoker.com/

Poker software is good if you're using it as prep to go play Live players at a casino or card room. I used it many years ago and it kept me from losing my ass playing live in Palm Springs. Other than that, and being able to "play" poker against predictable opponents I'm not sure the value.

Most people start playing online for $2 - 5 table buyins. And in that case you're going to be facing the "no foldem" crowd.

If you're going to jump into online play at the 100 and up table buyin, then you're going to see some sophisticated "non standard" play that you won't see against a computer. Delayed bets, check raises, extended moves at the pot, etc.

So what are your goals with playing poker software, i guess is my question. There are alot of computer games that are alot more fun than poker if your goal is just to kill time and have fun.

With that said, there's nothing wrong with using a poker software "academy" to learn skills. You just need to know that it's more of an artificial environment than you might think - especially if you're going to enter "real money" play at the smaller tables.

gl

I've been playing poker a month.
I've immersed myself in it and am addicted.
I've done a lot of reading on this site and a few books, am convinced that a diciplined approach to the game is best, and am very interested in developing a mix of TAgg and counterplay into my playing.
(Insert typical comment here about how well I feel I am taking to the game).

I am using the software to get some experiance without going to mirco stakes online room where everyone calls and no knowledge is gained. The software lets you adjust the AI to different types of play. From loose to tight, to passive to aggressive, to totally novice to all pro.

Short term goal would be to take $400.00, and start to build a bankroll on-line at Stars. From what I am reading, the $2 no limit ring game sounds like the place for me, and the way I play. Is that a good place to start? Or do they always call like crazy bastards with nothing at this level too? Also want to play the $3-$6 NL in Atlantic City.

Long Term goal is WSOP bracelet. (Keep laughing...you just might see me on TV one day). I tend to accomplish what I put my mind to.

I love all of your posts AOK (and I can see from your reply's that you love to be loved)
Any advice you could give would be appreciated.

I don't see anything wrong with using the software...but nothing can replace human opponent gameplay.
If you are putting in $400, and can stand to lose a little bit up front, skip the $2 tables and just play $10 NL at your site of choosing.
Just don't let the bad beats get to you at the lower tables as you can't force the chase-monkeys to fold - you just need to have your hands hold up more than not (long-term they will obviously).

Best of luck!