AKApokeruga
Enthusiast
Silver Level
1) There are no conveniences available like statistics, HUDs, or that tracker that always tells you the pot size. You have to do these things for yourself. On the other hand, your opponents are right there, so pay attention.
This is the biggest failure I've seen with these on-line hot-shots: they don't pay attention, and they pay big time for their folly. It is harder to pay attention live due to all the distractions. Most card rooms have big screen TVs playing, there's more noise, and you can't turn off chat live.
2) You will put more money at risk. There simply are no nickle and dime live games. The lowest stakes at the vast majority of casinos is $1.00/$2.00 no-limit with a $200 max buy. I would strongly suggest staying away from any small stakes fixed or spread limit games: the rake at these games is so larcenous that they are unbeatable.
Live players also tend to open for more than do on-line players where a 3XBB open is pretty standard. Live expect to see 12XBB opens. Live players typically want the hand to end right now because they're afraid of post flop play.
On the upside, expect weaker players. Live, the rec-fish aren't playing every day. On-line, a rec-fish quickly goes broke or improves.
3) Expect a slower pace. A live dealer can't match an RNG when it comes to dealing the cards. Also, you don't tip an RNG, and it's customary to tip the dealer, but that can really cut into your EV.
4) Temptations are everywhere. If your name goes on a wait list, then wait until a table opens. Don't "wait" at a Blackjack table or you just might find yourself sans buy-in when your name is called.
5) You often will meet bubbling persons at casino tables. Someone who went here just for fun will not for cash really love to speak about everithing. I am sure you met such guys when you played online poker. But they have just chat and keyboatds instead of many ears ready to listen (as they think).
6) You often will meet somebody drunked or near drunked. Who here not for play poker but just for "drink and rest".
7) And of course you will meet some guys who think they are the best poker players in the world. They will comment every your turn and angry when you don't use their advices.