The appeal of poker software is quite simple and direct: one is able to learn and practice a game that is normally played for money without risking any real cash. Prior to the existence of such software, someone wanting to learn how to play a game like Texas Hold 'em had to learn the hard way, by playing for money against other poker players who already had learned the game.
Before going further, I should point out that the serious student of the game can - and should - supplement one's practice by watching televised poker tournaments, reading books (we have a page devoted to recommended poker books), and eventually participating in live games and tournaments. But watching poker events and reading books is not a substitute for experience.
I have heard the argument that one can get practice in these games for free at many online poker sites, where a person can compete against other live players for "play money." This is true, but not recommended, for the simple reason that poker, when not played for actual money, is a rather nonsensical game. Why not risk your entire stack on every hand, just in case something good happens? That is exactly how many players approach the game when no real money is at risk. It might be a good idea to play a few hands for "play money" just to get a feel for how a certain poker website's software works, but more than that will only result in the acquiring of bad habits, which will ultimately prove to be costly.
Many serious players recommend Wilson Software's titles, including Turbo Texas Hold'em, Turbo 7-Card Stud and Turbo Omaha High-Low Split. Each of these titles retails for around $90. I have personally used Turbo Texas Hold'em and have had good results with the software. I've also used Turbo Tournament Texas Hold'em, which is specifically designed for tournament players - a great bit of software, and fun to use as well.
In approximately the same price range is Poki's Poker Academy designed for practice Texas Hold 'em ring games. This is also a well-thought-out piece of software, with nice graphics. The authors claim that the software uses artificial intelligence, so that the game will eventually get wise to you (just like a real player) if you keep trying the same moves. There is also a tracking chart which shows your results against the results of how things would have turned out had the program played the cards you were dealt, which is useful.
Because of the differences in the software, it is difficult for me to recommend one over the other. In essence, either title would probably please you. The folks at Poki's Poker Academy (they obviously are engineers, not marketing pros, or they would have chosen a better name) do not yet offer a tournament version of their software. When they do, I'll be anxious to try it out and compare it to Wilson's program.
Of related interest:
Original text by D J McAdam. Please note: all applicable material on this website is protected by copyright law and may not be copied without express written permission. This information is offered for entertainment purposes only.
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