So make sure yours is run right. You just can't match that in an online game. Playing in a well run live tournament is much more satisfying than online.

Sure you can play on the floor with some cheap cards and pennies, but our goal here was to make this an enjoyable game. Of course, a poorly run live tournament can be a nightmare. You have watched poker on television, perhaps played online, or even in a casino or a friend's home game. Best of all may be the feeling of accomplishment when you take down a win or make a great play and get the immediate recognition of other players.

A poker table makes for a much more enjoyable game but will likely also be your biggest investment.

To run a successful home poker tournament you need a poker table or other suitable playing surface, some quality playing cards, poker chips, some kind of blinds timer, and a plan. The conversation, the poker faces, the feel of the cards in your hand, and the sound of the chips shuffling are all part of the live poker tournament experience.

Now you are ready to host your own poker tournament.