Table Talk Rules Poker
19:5511 Feb
Below you will find the 2019 version of the Poker TDA Rules, Recommended Procedures and Illustration Addendum in English. For a downloadable copy in either MS Word or PDF format, and for foreign language translations visit our rules page. POKER TOURNAMENT DIRECTORS ASSN. 2019 Rules Version 1.0, Sept 17, 2019 Longform Version Includes: Recommended Procedures &Continue Reading. Over 99% of table talk is completely unrelated to collusion, which appears to be the one and only reason that the TDA added this rule. The biggest lie that’s being told is that if you get rid of this rule, you make collusion legal. That is just not true. Collusion and soft play is illegal. There's a ton of unwritten rules in poker most of which are usually applied at each individuals convenience when it benefits them.
(Photo: Assopoker.com)
The issue of what is and isn't appropriate at the poker tables in terms of table talk took center stage during the 2016 WSOP Main Event.
The focus of the controversy was directed toward William Kassouf, whose continuous banter turned out to be an effective weapon against his opponents. If you were watching at home or have seen the video and you put yourself in the camp of those who found Kassouf to be extremely annoying, you certainly are not alone.
Table Talk is not Going Away
Let's face it. Table talk will never be completely banished, nor should it. Poker is a social game and is made to be fun, and that includes talking to each other at the table.
What, then, is the best way to effectively deal with the talk of other players when you don't necessarily care to hear what they have to say? How best to defend against the psychological warfare and mind games of the William Kassoufs of the world?
Ask Alec
Alec Torelli covers that subject quite well in an 'Ask Alec' video, informing his viewers that its best to respond to players who are trying to get under your skin in a way that's 'conducive and comfortable for your personality.' However, be forewarned that if your personality and inclination is to haul off and smack a Kassouf-like player who rambles on incessantly, though it may be well-deserved, it is not the best response.
Torelli mentions playing the game on your own terms and not on the terms of that chatty opponent who is aiming to get an edge. Keep in mind that whatever your response may be, whether said or left unsaid, is information that the talkative player is trying to glom from you to further his or her aim of separating you from your chips.
In other words, be cognizant of your words, actions, and table image because the entire table - not only the motormouth - are watching. This same tip was also mentioned by Daniel Negreanu in a recent YouTube video that centered upon how best to play the early stages of tournaments.
Table Talk Rules Poker Games
Stick to the Game Plan
Table Talk Rules Poker Tournaments
Another piece of advice from Alec is to not take anything said by your opponents personally. It can cause you to deviate from your game plan as your anger and blood pressure rise, which is likely the exact effect that the gabby player was hoping for.
Torelli says to 'focus on driving your own car straight and not really worry too much about the other cars around you' with regard to the proper approach toward annoying and incessant table talk.