The main and obvious advantage of playing for play money - is the ability to play without the contribution of money. In the early stages of the game of poker it is very important because no one wants to become an easy target for the experienced players and losing money. In this case, the outcome of the game without money, but with real actors will bring results. Of course, to become a professional will not work - weak participants will be your opponents. But check out some strategy and learn the rules, you can start taking small stakes in cash games and develop the skills, but with stronger players.