The term 'rail' in poker refers to the boundary or sideline in a poker room or at a poker table. It's often where spectators can watch the game. While it is a similar concept online, for obvious reasons there is no physical rail. Instead, for a player to rail online they simply have the table open and are watching the action unfold.

What Is Rail in Poker?

In poker, the 'rail' is the term used to describe the boundary in a poker room or at a poker table, from which people can watch the action at the table. It's the area where spectators, including eliminated players, friends, family, or poker fans, can watch the game and provide support to players.

In a physical poker room, the 'rail' is often a literal railing or barrier that separates the poker table area from the watching area. In an online setting, being 'on the rail' refers to watching a game without participating in it.

Rails, particularly at the WSOP or in a high-stakes tournament, can often get lively as friends and family of a player sweat the play. In some cases, the rail will celebrate excessively when the player they're supporting wins a big hand.

Example of "Rail"

For instance, during a big poker tournament, you might hear the phrase, "The player was eliminated and joined the others on the rail." This means the player was knocked out of the tournament and joined the spectators around the table.

Online, a player might 'rail' a high-stakes game featuring well-known poker pros, watching the game in progress and learning from the strategies employed by the players.

• "After busting out of the tournament, I joined the rail to watch the rest of the action."
• "A large crowd was gathered on the rail, watching the final table of the tournament."
• "I spent the evening on the rail, watching a high-stakes cash game online."

Rail in Poker FAQs

[FAQ]
Q: What does 'rail' mean in poker?
A: In poker, the 'rail' refers to the boundary or sidelines in a poker room or at a poker table. It's where spectators can watch the game.

Q: Can you 'rail' a game in online poker?
A: Yes, 'railing' a game is possible in online poker. It refers to watching a game without participating in it. It's a common way for players to observe high-stakes games and learn from experienced players.

Q: Is being on the 'rail' different in live and online poker?
A: The basic concept is the same - you're watching the game without playing. However, in live poker, the 'rail' is a physical boundary, while in online poker, it refers to opening a table to watch the game.

Q: Can 'railing' a game help improve my poker skills?
A: Absolutely! Watching games, especially those involving skilled or professional players, can be a valuable learning opportunity. You can observe different strategies and decision-making processes, which can help improve your own game.

Q: Are spectators on the 'rail' allowed to interact with the players?
A: Rules vary between casinos and online platforms, but generally, spectators are expected to respect the players and the game. Excessive interaction or sharing information about the game can be considered unethical or even against the rules.