by Delia
3. February 2011 06:23
So, you’re millions of light years away from home, in fact so far away that the term ‘Earthling’ has become a vague and obscure term which implies a planet no-one has been to recently (except in the holodeck, that is). However, all is still well in the universe. The best of most traditional Earth games based on chance and skill has survived, and when the Borg get really mean, the senior-crew of the USS Enterprise can put their troubles asunder and enjoy a round of poker.
All manner of alien species, each sporting a variety of colours, webbed-appendages and pointy or bony protrusions, enjoy this game, where an alert player could increase their chances of winning by watching their opponent’s facial expressions. And if you’re an android you will have to learn to ‘bluff’, but conversely, you will have the most potent of poker faces ever. It helps, especially if the cards you have are not stellar but you have enough confidence in your game plan to pull it off.
Poker is not a game that can be played by relying on mathematical strategy alone. Winning at poker means a good understanding of human (and in this case, alien) nature, a measure of skill and a healthy dose of luck. Good to know if you ever have to play with the Borg queen.
Trekkies have latched on to this idea and in solidarity have started a Star Trek-themed evening to honour this illustrious game that is sure to be around for many light years travelled to come. This is the best option, considering the fact that we haven’t ‘officially’ had any contacts of the third kind, yet...
To the dedicated fan boys (and girls) who play dress-up and play intergalactic games, all I’m saying is keep your poker face on.