Some people take them seriously and even if they are not betting the game - may have followers.
Others bet strategy only - going against popular plays to try and gain an advantage - if the majority lose - you pick up a win and a big advantage going against them.
if your playing to win - you treat it like “real money” everytime - this isn’t monopoly - it’s gambling and your playing for more than bragging rights.
My Dr. said I need more exercise, so I headed out for a walk around the niebor hood. After about 2 blooks I was tired so stopped at the pizza hut to rest, while there I order a large pizza and a pitcher of Mtn Dew. That time years ago when a few of us went out parting for the night, that was great!!!!!!!!!!!!