Beginner gamblers often debate the relative importance of luck and skill in games. Some are sure that everything is decided by chance, others believe that the player can control the process and the outcome of the game depends on his actions. But in fact, the truth lies somewhere in the middle.

Today, we are talking about how important it is to plan and apply a winning strategy in gambling and everyday life with professional poker player Maxim Akimenko.

What are the features of strategic gaming thinking for you personally?

Are you asking how strategic gaming thinking differs from general strategic thinking? In iGaming, chance plays a significant role, unlike in business where strategies rely on known data and forecasts. But both in games and in other areas, the essence of strategic thinking is the same. First of all, it is the ability to set conscious and achievable goals and achieve success.

Based on my extensive experience, I believe that expecting miracles from the game is a mistake. Anyone who wants to lead a gaming lifestyle should understand that games are just entertainment, not a way to earn money. It is also essential to follow the principles of responsible gambling, which will help you to be more conscious.

Are strategies important in all gambling games?

Yes, they are, but the approach can vary greatly depending on the type of game and the role of the player. For example, a strategy in poker is not the same as a strategy in slots. In the first case, not only is luck important to win, but also logical thought is the ability to predict the actions of opponents, while in the case of playing slots, you have to rely mainly on luck. The result in certified slots is based on a random number generator.

Therefore, a winning strategy in poker or bridge is based primarily on calculation, and the ability to control your emotions is used as the basis for a strategy in slot machines, roulette or baccarat.

How do strategies help you control your emotions better?

When you spin the slots or the roulette wheel, you cannot influence the outcome of the game, but you can control your bankroll. Betting strategies are used for exactly this to prevent you from exceeding your limits in a state of excitement. Strictly following a certain rule allows you to maintain focus on the gameplay and avoid impulsive actions that can lead to a quick loss of the deposit. Since the casino has a mathematical advantage, it is important for the player to minimize risks. In this case, he will have better odds of winning. As for such intellectual games as poker or bridge, as well as eSports, discipline and the ability to calculate your actions are even more important.

Is there a connection between strategic thinking in games and everyday life?

There is indeed such a connection. For example, the methods used by professional gamers can be effectively applied in management positions. A disciplined and responsible approach to games can stimulate certain cognitive processes and contribute to cultivating a mindset. However, a person’s adherence to the rules in gambling does not necessarily guarantee similar behavior in real life. I think that a person’s natural inclination toward calculation plays a significant role.

What advice would you give to our readers in the context of our conversation?

There are many tips for playing, but now I would like to focus on one, and in my opinion, the most important and fundamental one. To become a successful player, it is worth gradually abandoning games where everything depends on luck and moving on to those where a well-thought-out strategy and soft skills such as reading opponents’ hints and controlling emotions play a key role. In addition, it would be very useful to integrate into the professional gaming community. This allows you not only to deepen your knowledge, but also to get gambling help from more experienced players.

I thank Maxim for his time and hope that his advice and experience will be useful for everyone who is interested in iGaming and wants to succeed in it. We have once again seen the importance of sticking to planning and responsible gaming rules in gambling. I would also like to add that it is safe to play only in those casinos that have a gambling license. This concludes our conversation.

The interview was conducted for you by Olena Bylytsia, editor-in-chief of the gaming portal ProInternet.