Since poker – in particular, the game of Texas Hold ‘Em — is one of the most popular and frequently played casino games in the United States and across the world, it only makes sense that the game would also be a great source for numerous myths and speculations. There are several different rumors that have been milling about in the world of poker that players should be aware are not true.

The Poker Rumors

Most of the myths that surround poker have to do with the game itself. Since most people are very concerned about winning the game in most any way they can, these myths have originated from that frame of mind.

One rumor is that the top poker players across the world can very easily sense when another player is cheating or using a system. This is not always the case though. This is primarily due to the fact that the most advanced forms of card marking and other schemes like partnerships and card manipulation are highly undetectable among most gamblers.

This means that while these types of cheaters may be caught in a casino – where surveillance is at its most effective — they will be less likely to be caught in a more home-grown game of poker. Therefore, the myth that the best players can discern when cheating is taking place can be dispelled.

Do Not Count Your Chips

Another frequently occurring myth is that players should not count their chips during the game. There is not concrete evidence to prove that players should not count their chips, and since it is necessary to judge how a player is performing during the game, players should go ahead and count their chips when they feel it is necessary.

Also, since poker is often a game of bluffing and non-bluffing – especially when it comes to guessing what type of hand the fellow gamblers have – one rumor states that a player who is bluffing will display nervous behavior. But this is not true either. Players who are bluffing may appear rigid or unmoving, or display other characteristics, but they most certainly do not act nervous in general.

Some people also believe checking and card calling are something more advanced players never do, but these are natural parts of the game, and they do not display a lack of skill. All of these rumors go to prove that any game no matter how it is played can be a source for speculation.