If you're the new guy at a home game...

[metsmaniac823]

When looking for games outside your own regular home games, would you ever go to one where you didn't know anyone? Example: if you see an online ad for home games in your city, you express interest and a guy e-mails you about one where you won't know anyone. Would you insist on bringing one or more people with you before going or would you feel comfortable enough to play by yourself?

Just curious for opinions here; I played a tournament recently, small stakes, where my friend invited me to play but then did not show up. I sat down with them anyway and got mopped up, feeling uncomfortable the whole time... not uncomfortable to throw my chips in like a maniac but still. Any thoughts on atmosphere or pros/cons to familiar competition would be appreciated. Also, if you have tips to overcoming such a thing (especially for casinos and card rooms), that would be great too.