Trying to "Lose" - home game question

[lorinda]

It depends on why you want to play against them.

If the EV is worth losing some casual acquaintences over, then play your best each game until they say 'bah'

If they are reasonably intelligent, you could pretty much tell them that you're the best player in the room and make it worth their while by helping them improve their game and discussing some plays with them.
This will lower your EV a bit, but you'll still be welcome at the game, you'll still be the best player and you'll be giving them some value for money.

It all depends on if you can pull this off without coming across as an A-hole.
(It's an ability some have, and some don't)

Lori