Reasons to Consider Skipping the World Series of Poker

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With the 2019 World Series of Poker coming to a close, it appears that the WSOP will set records yet again and just missed out on setting a record for the largest field in WSOP Main Event history. Many are taking this as a sure sign that poker is far from dead, and we largely agree.

For many, the World Series of Poker is an ultimate goal in one’s playing career and for others, it is a bucket list type of event. Everyone has their own reasons for playing at the WSOP, but is playing there the best option for your money?

Today we take a look at some of the reasons that you may want to consider playing at other events in Las Vegas during the Summertime or even skip the WSOP altogether.

WSOP Requires a Sizable Time Commitment

If you are a poker player that is used to one-day poker tournaments, you will find the WSOP to be a completely different beast. The majority of events at the WSOP run at least three days with some running as many as five until completion.

Even if you don’t make the final table, the average WSOP event is going to take you at least two days. If you are looking to be in Las Vegas for a just a few days, you may only be able to squeeze two or three events into your schedule, assuming that you play well in the events. There are exceptions, such as Turbo events, but usually, you are going to have to commit much more time than you may be used to in order to play.

The Competition is Much Stiffer

Playing at the World Series of Poker is going to be the ultimate test of your skills as a poker player. Some of you are up to the challenge, but if you are somewhat new to poker or if your poker skills have not been tested outside of home games or bar room tournaments, then this is not going to be your best option.

Many players at the WSOP have years and even decades of experience playing in live poker events such as that, and they have forgotten more about playing in big events than you’ve learned to this point.

Not As Cheap As You Think

You will notice that the WSOP has many lower pricing points than ever, starting as low as $400. While this is a cheap way to buy your way into a WSOP event, keep in mind that the event may not be as inexpensive as you think.

Many of the lower pricing points and even some of the standard ones have re-entry and in some cases multiple re-entries. As such, you have many players willing to fire multiple bullets in an event. Sure, you can try and spin up a stack on a single bullet, and some do, but on average you are not going to be able to compete with those that have the bankroll or the banking to fire 5 bullets every re-entry tournament.

You’re Part of the Herd

One common complaint that you’re hearing more and more often in recent years is how that the WSOP is no more than a glorified cattle call. There are thousands of people every day at the series and during the biggest events, there may be over 5,000 people in a single tournament. This leads to many feeling like they are just another dollar to the WSOP.

Large events like the WSOP hype up large numbers but it is at the loss of the personal touch that many people grew to love from poker. Those used to online poker may not mind this, but others like more interaction and feel they are appreciated by the casino they support.

Keep in mind that the above does not mean you should never play at the WSOP. If you feel you are ready or it’s something on your bucket list, by all means, go and play. It is an awesome experience. However, if you are only playing because everyone else is doing it or because you think you might get to play with a few pros, there are other options around Vegas where you can accomplish the same for a lot less money.