Poker is a game of skill rather than a game of chance. It’s a form of gambling that only a few select people master after playing for years. Is gambling, therefore, a form of art?

Gambling has always been a favorite pastime of many people in America. One great evidence of this is Las Vegas and their thriving businesses. To be successful, gambling requires great skill in order for the player who wants to win money.

Unless you’re playing slots, which relies heavily on luck, chances are when you’re gambling, you’re not risking your money without first making sure you have the possibility of winning.

This may include being exceptional at counting cards, choosing between empty or crowded tables, or something really basic such as researching online before betting.

But the bottom line is this: acquiring skills so as not to throw away your hard-earned money doesn’t come easy.

Counting Cards

Take for example the art of counting cards. It’s the most basic skill that people usually master to increase potential earnings at the table. It allows players to bet more with less risk when the count gives an advantage, while likewise minimizes losses on an unfavorable count.

There’s a reason why downloading card counting apps and bringing them to the table is illegal. It brings an unfair advantage to the player who is otherwise in equal footing with the others.

But the art of card counting—as it happens so quickly in a person’s head—is something everyone should see as a skill that doesn’t come easy. Card counting isn’t illegal in the country as it isn’t stated so in any federal, state, or local laws.

Casinos though object to the practice and sometimes ban players who they believe are counters. Successful card counters therefore also need to learn the skill of “cover” behavior, or not bringing attention to themselves. This just goes to show how much of an art gambling really is. It’s not cheating, it’s just a skill.