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Measuring skill and chance in different versions of Poker

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  • Lambrecht, Marco

Abstract

This paper aims to measure skill and chance in different versions of online poker, using the best-fit Elo algorithm established in the first chapter. While Texas Hold'em arguably is the most popular version being played, the amount of skill involved might differ from other versions like Omaha Hold'em. Many platforms offer faster procedures to play (e.g. "hyper turbo"), as well as different levels of stakes. Given the richness of online poker data, it is possible to isolate the impact of these variations individually. The heterogeneity of best-fit Elo ratings decreases in quicker competitions or with higher stakes. Meanwhile, Omaha seems to contain more elements of skill than Texas Hold'em, as its analysis shows a wider distribution of skill levels of players.

Suggested Citation

  • Lambrecht, Marco, 2020. "Measuring skill and chance in different versions of Poker," Working Papers 0687, University of Heidelberg, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:awi:wpaper:0687
    Note: This paper is part of http://archiv.ub.uni-heidelberg.de/volltextserver/view/schriftenreihen/sr-3.html
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Marcel Dreef & Peter Borm & Ben van der Genugten, 2003. "On Strategy and Relative Skill in Poker," International Game Theory Review (IGTR), World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd., vol. 5(02), pages 83-103.
    3. Drew Fudenberg & David K. Levine, 1998. "The Theory of Learning in Games," MIT Press Books, The MIT Press, edition 1, volume 1, number 0262061945, December.
    4. Rogier J D Potter van Loon & Martijn J van den Assem & Dennie van Dolder, 2015. "Beyond Chance? The Persistence of Performance in Online Poker," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 10(3), pages 1-23, March.
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    Keywords

    Elo-rating; measuring skill and chance; Poker;
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