Dutch Rule that Poker is a Game of Skill
Written by Roger S | Thursday, July 8th, 2010
In a case that will certainly change the course of poker in the Netherlands, a Hague court has ruled in favor of the argument that poker is a game of skill. This new classification means that the game is treated in a totally different light when it comes to legal matters, and brings with it significant changes for players seeking to enjoy quality poker entertainment in different venues.
Games in the Netherlands are essentially divided into two categories – games of chance and games of skill. As such, games of chance such as slots are legal up to a certain level, meaning that they can only be played in state run casinos. For games of skill, however, it is a whole different ball game and these are not subject to such stringent legislation as games of chance are.
The new ruling means that poker has now been deemed a game of skill and as such, the game receives different legal status. For one, it is not necessary for players to go to state run casinos to enjoy a game of poker, since is no longer considered a game of chance. Instead, Dutch poker players will be able to enjoy poker at different venues such as poker rooms, tournaments and others – the options are endless.
The defense argued that “poker has become a different game, depending on tactics, experience and psychology.” The ruling judge clearly agreed with this argument and, as stated, granted poker the status as game of skill.
As such, the organizers of poker tournaments are not allowed to be prosecuted for breaking gambling laws in the country said the ruling.
This is not the first country where poker has had its classification status changed. Sweden ruled in the same vein last year, however a Swiss judge recently decided that poker is a game of chance.
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· Written by Roger S · Filed Under Poker Gossip · Comments Off
