Maria Ho, a renowned poker player, has been part of the Team China during two editions of Inaugural World Team Poker Invitational. Although the games may seem different on the surface, she finds similarities between poker and mahjong. In this article, we will delve into her thoughts on the connection between the two games and explore her views on China's potential as a growing market for poker.
Luck vs Strategy
According to Maria Ho, there is more luck involved in mahjong than in poker. However, she believes that once you understand an opponent's strategy, you can exploit it to your advantage, much like in poker. This strategic aspect of the game allows players to make informed decisions and adapt to their opponents' moves.
Roots and Cultural Identity
Maria Ho shares her connection to China, despite being born in Taiwan. She explains that while she was born in Taiwan, her grandparents were from China, and her cultural identity is deeply rooted in Chinese traditions. This sense of belonging is evident in her desire to represent the Chinese people well and make them proud.
China as a Potential Market
Maria Ho believes that China has immense potential as a growing market for poker. She notes that Asian cultures are often fond of games and have a long tradition of playing. In fact, she grew up playing games with her parents from a young age, and gambling is generally accepted in their culture.
Challenges Ahead
While Maria Ho sees the potential for growth, she acknowledges that there are still many challenges to overcome before poker can truly take off in China. She highlights the lack of translated poker literature as one significant obstacle, emphasizing that Chinese people love to learn and improve at games they play.
****, Maria Ho's reflections on the similarities between poker and mahjong provide valuable insights into the strategic aspects of both games. Her experiences with Team China highlight the potential for growth in China as a market for poker, but also underscore the importance of overcoming cultural and linguistic barriers.