Dutch Court Determines Poker is Game of Skill

July 8 - A groundbreaking case in the Netherlands recently has changed the legal status of poker.

A Hague court ruled that poker is considered a game of skill, and not of chance, essentially opening up the option of allowing players to enjoy this pastime at a wider range of venues.

According to Dutch law, games are divided into two categories - those of skill and those of chance.

Games of chance are limited to designated casinos, and typically include roulette and slots.

Up until now, poker was lumped together with games of chance and could only be played at casinos.

However, the recent court case changed all that.

The defence argued that "poker has become a different game, depending on tactics, experience and psychology."

The judge finally decided that, based on the evidence, it is clear that poker is a game of skill.

The effects of this ruling are far-reaching.

Dutch poker players will be able to enjoy poker in a wide range of venues outside of casinos, and tournaments will become a permanent fixture in the country.

It is hoped that these changes will eventually bring about the introduction of legalized and regulated online poker in the Netherlands.