The debate on the regulation of live poker in Italy is complex and has many facets. Today, we critically analyze Prof. Crismani‘s report “Sports discipline and the game of poker”, an analysis that played a crucial role in the creation of the Skill Poker Index. The document highlights the critical aspects of the game dynamics that classify poker as gambling and emphasises the need to identify a method to reduce the random component in favor of the strategic one.
The current situation sees the regulation of live poker in the hands of the Questori, who decide on the authorization of gaming activities based on their perception of the balance between luck and skill. This leads to a “leopard spot” situation between the Regions that allow the game, albeit with restrictions, and those that prohibit it [Crismani, 2008]. Crismani describes in detail the game authorization process, stressing the difficulty in determining whether the winnings or losses are predominantly random or not.

The dilemma of poker game authorization
The issue is complex and requires careful case-by-case analysis, taking into consideration the rules and combinations of the game itself. Moreover, it is important to note that a game that is not normally based on chance can become so if modified in a way that makes luck the dominant factor in determining winnings or losses [Crismani, 2008].
The matter was recently addressed during the 1st edition of “The future of gaming in Italy,” an online conference organized by SBC Events in collaboration with gioconews.it. During the event, industry experts discussed the challenges and opportunities for regulating live poker in Italy, highlighting the importance of a balanced solution that takes into account the different needs of players, operators, and competent authorities.
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