The game of poker is gaining in popularity, with televised poker tournaments, online poker sites, and traditional "poker night" games being played in homes across the country. The old image of poker as a game played in smoky, dimly lit back rooms populated by con men and criminals is fading away.

In this article, we'll learn the basics of poker, how to play some of the more popular forms of poker, examine the strategies that can lead to poker success, and take a look at the shady ways of poker cheaters.