Buddy and me headed out to test our skills in live games after a year of internet play. Both of us are students, so the money doesn't come easy in our world - which means mostly 2-4, 3-6 limit hold em and the GRIND. Lots of loose action at these limits, with some really awful players abound. We played in a lot of rooms, so I'll just hit the highlights. As far as ambience goes, the Excalibur room lacks big time, but their 2-6 spread limit game is a blast and ripe for the picking if you know how to give yourself odds. A ton of fun in this room.

We also hit the Mirage room at the end of our trip. I wanted to sit in what I have heard to be the toughest 6-12 game in Vegas. I wasn't disappointed. An 8 hour session with the locals! These guys can play, and they take their turns picking on the one or two tourists at the table. I played tight, but as aggressive as possible, showing only KK, AK three times and an AQs that missed a flush and checked on river. After that I earned a little respect and was able to open up a bit and run some bluffs here and there. These guys are observant and they lay hands down when they know they are beaten. This was a bigger game for me, and I loved it. I actually folded JJ before the flop in middle position with a raise and reraise ahead of me. I thought I was crazy at the time, but turned out to be a smart move. Some of these locals can read your cards super well for a low/middle limit game. The room is superb. The mgmt is as professional as they come and the chips are gorgeous. I almost took my money home in Mirage chips just to have a home set!

Can't wait to go back and go again. Also tried out the new MGM room. We didn't like it as the noise is high as is the hubris. Not a very cerebral game - just lots of guys thumping their chests. Definately beatable if you can stand the distractions. Management not so good here.

Cheers