What are some of the differences between live and online poker? And among these differences, which are the most important ones for players making the jump from one to the other? As you think of an answer, here are several differences to consider. Those who do engage in both have to be aware of the differences between how the respective games tend to play. Today there is a lot more overlap, with most top players and many at all levels playing both online and live. Then there would be 'online pros' showing up at live events and struggling with handling cards and chips or game etiquette. You'd hear stories of 'live pros' venturing online and not faring well (with some complaining the game wasn't 'real' poker). Many pros belonged to one group and essentially ignored the other. There was a time in the not too distant past that the contrast between 'live poker players' and 'online poker players' was quite stark. Online poker, a video game, live poker more likened to a sport. It's like comparing chess and checkers, some have suggested. Then again, many players have persuasively argued the games couldn't be more different. Many of the skills developed in one format translate readily to the other. Players in both games bet and bluff and deliver and receive bad beats. On the one hand, whether you play poker in a casino or play poker on a computer, it's still the same game. How would you compare live poker and online poker?