I like to play online poker , and if the recent stats are any indication, you probably like to play online poker too. Despite the promises of many poker websites, online poker comes with some serious strings attached. The most serious string is the software that many casinos require you to download to your computer.

Casinos give a variety of reasons why it is absolutely necessary for you to download these things to your computer. Some cite graphics or processing speed, while others say that it improves your gaming experience. I am not sure if I believe any of these reasons. I think that they make you download the software so that your computer is linked to their casino. Not comfortable thought.

You always have the option of playing non download games on most online poker casinos. These have fewer strings attached, but often have a lower quality gaming experience. You are strongly encouraged to move your game over to the download versions. The non download versions are often hard to find, and rarely have the selection that I crave.

I think I will eventually accept that online gambling simply has more strings attached than cash games. Knowing that, however, does not keep me from yearning for the days when poker was simpler.