Texas Hold em is a poker game that has taken the world by storm. So what is it about this particular poker game that created such a sensation? There are several points that play into the popularity of the game, including the star status achieved by some of the professional players. Add to that the fact that the game is fairly easy to learn for anyone who has a rudimentary knowledge of poker instantly allowing groups of people to gather to play in games and tournaments that mimic those World Poker Tours as seen on television.

In the largest cities and smallest communities around the country, people are meeting up to play Texas Hold em. Though some dont limit their poker playing to only this one game, many groups are holding Texas Hold em tournaments as their main draw. Words like river, flop and pocket pair are bandied about during these poker games, just as they are during the major poker games being televised.

And while the folks who play in those local tournaments arent likely to ever be the stars of their Las Vegas counterparts, theres no doubt that some of the winners (and losers) are taking their cues from the World Poker Tour stars.

Phil Helmuth is arguably one of the best-known poker players on television today, but its not only because he has won so many poker tournaments. Its also because Phil is such a character. Hes been known to throw a fit (on television) when things arent going his way. He once made the comment that hed just been beaten by someone who couldnt even spell poker, and that those winning at his table simply werent playing right. Despite his attitude (which even he admits is often childish), hes very successful and has written books on playing poker.

Mike Madison is another of the poker stars, also a winner but also a very vocal player. Mike the Mouth, as hes known on the professional circuit, often spouts off to other players at the table. Both Madison and Helmuth are often chastised both by officials and by fans for their behavior.

But it isnt the game that makes these men noisy and obnoxious. There are some true gentlemen sitting at those same tables. Doyle Brunson is often described as a poker legend. Brunson is older than many of the professional players, has won some impressive tournaments, and never ceases to be professional and polite.

Whether its on television or gathered around a table in a home in rural America, theres no doubt that Texas Hold em poker has become the game to play. Even if its only in your own home town, you may find yourself being labeled the next poker gentleman like Brunson, or the next poker crybaby.