Quote:
Originally Posted by IanTheDealer
....But, this was a cash game. So, did he break a rule? I guess it's room-dependent....
Of course, bluffing is a form of lying, but it is sanctioned as an integral part of the game (and one of the things which sets poker apart from other games).
Lying verbally about your hand is not the same thing as bluffing by betting (or body language, etc.). However, traditionally, in American poker (I think it was/is different in Britain), you have always been allowed to talk about your hand (years ago, multi-way, more recently HU only). You certainly were allowed to lie (or to tell the truth), and it was understood that the listener had to make up his mind which (or ignore you entirely). Caveat emptor!
But today, with tournaments and lots of inexperienced new players (and rooms, dealers and floors), there is apparently a lot of confusion out there. So, he probably didn't break a rule, but yes, it is (regrettably) room-dependent.
Having said that, I do think that it's kind of scummy to trick someone into thinking you're making friends and playing a nice social game, when you're actually playing for blood.