Automated Poker Table
Before we plunge into a discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of an automated poker table we must know what exactly it is. An automated poker table is one where the entire game is played automatically in the sense that there is no dealer, chips or cards. Everything is automated. There is one screen in the middle of the table that gives all details on betting rounds stacks etc. Besides each player has an individual screen. The entire calculation is done by the table .There are certain distinct advantages that these tables have like the dealer would not make any mistakes, more number of hands can be played as the deals are faster with an automatic one, there would not be any brawls or complaints over the tip of the dealer etc.
Some are of the opinion that the automated tables are extremely futuristic and hold the key to all future games. However everyone is not equally enthusiastic .There are a number of points that go against these sophisticated machines. The first and foremost reason being the loss of jobs that would be associated with these tables as dealers, chip runners, security guards etc would be rendered useless if these tables are used universally. Though some jobs would be created for those associated with building these machines it would be practically nothing in comparison to the loss. Moreover the entire feel and thrill associated with a casino poker game would not remain with the automated tables. Dealing and betting against a table is hardly what one bargains for while going to a casino. Another opinion is that with an automated table everyone who loses would talk about rigging and would complain that the machines have been tampered with already before the game started.
With the advent of these machines there was a lot of concern among dealers regarding job loss, but it is seen with the passage of time that a lot of casinos actually did not have automated tables at all. This was based on their study of other casinos that did implement these machines and were actually not benefited from them. A number of casinos had these tables removed after some time. So this seems to be just a passing wave and the enriching experience that a real game of poker offers can not be replicated by a machine.
