Poker Personalities - The Arrogant Player

Many of us have encountered some unique people when playing poker. We all notice that each person has a distinct personality; it often happens that these personalities are drawn out in a card game. We will teach you how to detect and defeat one of the biggest suckers in the game—the arrogant player.

Arrogance can be defined as an offensive display of superiority or self-importance—as having overbearing pride. But first things first, we need to learn how to detect this breed of players. This is quite easy. You will notice that they are so proud; the arrogant player displays a distinct set of traits. Here is a list of the common characteristics to look for:

• They talk a lot, especially after they have won a hand.
• They continually give advice throughout the game.
• They are fixated on opponents' "luck" after a bad beat.
• They are extremely aggressive bettors.
• They try to intimidate other players.
• They rely on getting into other players' heads.
• They frequently bluff.
• If corrected, they take it personally.
• They justify any mistake they make by explaining their reasoning.

The arrogant player might have a couple to all of these characteristics. Once you have identified the classically arrogant player, then it is time to take them down.

It must be noted that there are some very talented poker players who show proud tendencies. Being one of the best at the game, it is difficult not to be proud.

The talented and proud players have the skills to back up their pride, and therefore they won't easily be defeated. Our focus is on the novice players who have egos much larger than their ability and skills at playing poker. These are the people to target.

One of the best weapons against the arrogant player is to get into their head and not allow them to get into yours. The more you are able to beat the arrogant player, the harder they will try to redeem themselves. They will target you because they like to intimidate other players and rely on getting into their heads. It's fortunate for you; the pride that drives them will also be their pitfall.

One thing you will notice is that the arrogant player hates to lose, even though they appear cool and calm. They will be seething inside with every hand you win. With each victory, you will need to endure more insults and the intimidation tactics meted out. Keep your cool and remember that these are signs that you will see them cracking.

This may appear to be a simple tactic, but believe us—it works. Arrogant poker players are your classic "let's go 2 out of 3" players. They won't rest until they have won. You are more than likely a better player, and as long as you don't get discouraged by the aggressive betting and intimidation tactics, calling out the proud player's bluff is a sure-fire way to get in their head.

When winning a hand against the arrogant player, you must appear as modest as you possibly can. You want to appear as if you are merely an average player that's hit a hot streak. You want to ensure that they think they can beat you. This will keep the arrogant player's anger boiling and keep them coming back for more, which means more money in your pocket.