Here’s my opinion on a few observations I have made (somewhat generalised as you can imagine). This isn’t a one-size-fits-all classification but rather just some between population differences (and not within population analysis).
Scandinavians: Genetically at an advantage for their ability to contain emotion, remain focussed and serious at all times. Good instincts however being too aggressive is most often the cause of their demise, as well as the occasional overestimation of their abilities and underestimation of opponents (especially non Scandinavians).
Americans: A mixed bag. Have their fair share of showmanship. Overly strategic and yet lacking deep insight in some circumstances. They can be overconfident and often overvalue their gut instincts. Cliché and shallow in their table talk, inconsistent in results, and entrepreneurial off the table more often than on it.
Russians: Intelligent, subdued, sensible, logical, and controlled in their aggression. Sceptical of opposition credibility, and assured in their own strengths. Strong players who are simple yet effective.
Asians: Too much gambol! Aside from their tendency to overcommit chips and not give up on a failed steals, their over-reliance on probabilities and averages means they actually get into bad spots more often than just cold deck situations. I feel they do not pay enough attention to reading an opponent. I think they also stick too much to a well drilled routine strategy and are not flexible and adaptable to their opponents.
Germans: Creative, adventurous and liberal in their play. More tame, calm, relaxed, with less of a need to be as dominant as their berserkergang Scandinavian cousins. They seem to defy order and predictability and take some unnecessary risks.
Australians: More shrewd and cunning than our stereotype would suggest. I think as a whole we play more conservatively, and treat all opposition equally. Happy to chirp with chips but we knuckle down when the going gets tough.
Balkans: I’ve not played with many, but stable, logical, and predictable, until their bluff is called, or they get unlucky, or an opponent’s bad play works against them, at which point they “spit the dummy” and go on tilt until their lost chips are restored with interest. They have potential to be better but are too deterministic and blame luck and other factors. They’d sooner consult a local witch doctor than a copy of Harrington on Hold'em.
Lithuanians: Sheer class and talent. Great players and as a bonus good entertainment value!
I hope this didn’t read too much like a horoscope. Comments and witticisms welcome.
Joined: Jan '08
Location: Brazil
Age: 44 (M)
Posts: 1788
Great thread! I too don´t believe that we can label a nationality as this or that kind of player, but I do believe that there are certain tendencies that are dominant in certain nationalities. How about Brasilian players, have you played against any? I would love to hear some feedback on our players.
Joined: Jan '08
Location: Brazil
Age: 36 (M)
Posts: 273
Brasilians, in general, are pretty much the same of the american, But we are more agressive i believe and no sot confident of ourselves, But we do know we can win
Joined: Feb '08
Location: United Kingdom
Age: 35 (M)
Posts: 1886
What about the brits then?
Thing is i think we all hav our unique styles of playing. i've watched players from the same country play v diffrent games. hell iv seen different plays from day to day. I've heard stereotypes about scandanavians but i don't think it can be true. Good topic tho.
Joined: Jan '08
Location: Canada
Age: 37 (M)
Posts: 1354
hahahaha very interesting altho i didnt see anything up there about italians lol i would love to read what you got on italians style of play.. but very nicely done well put together
Joined: Feb '08
Location: United States
Age: 54 (M)
Posts: 407
Im curious about haw many different countries are represented here. And how many per country. I do know that most of the european players are pretty good at omaha for some reason.
I too don´t believe that we can label a nationality as this or that kind of player, but I do believe that there are certain tendencies that are dominant in certain nationalities. How about Brasilian players, have you played against any? I would love to hear some feedback on our players.
but life in holland
