Playing at a table

Is it acceptable to talk to other players at a gaming table or should I keep quiet while playing?

D.Kirk, Southend

The croupier says: 

While there’s no rules banning you from having a chat with your fellow players, it really depends on the atmosphere at that specific table.

Some gamers might not want to strike up a conversation with anyone as they want to focus on the game – and you certainly don’t want them blaming you for any mistakes they might make if you break their concentration by talking to them!

The best thing to do is to judge each table individually – if the gamers at your table are playing in silence and not communicating with anyone other than the dealer it’s best to keep quiet; but if it’s more informal and the gamers are chatting to each other than it should be fine to join in.

If you don’t want to play your chosen game in silence then look for a table where the atmosphere appears to be more laid-back; or why not play at the same table as a friend?