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What Pennsylvania’s MSIGA Entry Means for Online Poker Players in 2025

Posted on January 5, 2025 by Kelley N.

The long-awaited move is finally here: Pennsylvania will officially join the Multi-State Gaming Agreement (MSIGA) in 2025, making it the next high-profile state market to become part of this groundbreaking pact that enables online poker operators to share players across state lines. The development marks a major step in the expansion of the online poker market in the U.S., which has been eagerly anticipated by poker enthusiasts and operators alike.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) Communications Director, Doug Harbach, confirmed the state’s invitation to join the MSIGA, with expectations that the formal membership could be completed in the first quarter. Harbach noted that while the state awaits the necessary paperwork to review and sign, the process will take additional time to ensure all legal and regulatory requirements are met.

What to Expect

Pennsylvania’s population of 13 million will make it the largest state in the MSIGA network, adding considerable muscle to the growing market. Online poker companies like PokerStars, WSOP.com, BetMGM, and Borgata Poker will be able to merge player pools across MSIGA member states—currently Nevada, New Jersey, Delaware, Michigan, and West Virginia.

Once finalized, the state will become the sixth member of the pact that allows online poker operators to pool players across state lines. For Pennsylvania players, this means a significant increase in available tournaments, including major events like the World Series of Poker (WSOP) online bracelet tournaments.

Previously, players in Pennsylvania had access to only four bracelet events, but with shared liquidity, they could compete in up to 33 events, drastically improving their chances of scoring big. Moreover, the merging of player pools will lead to larger prize pools, with guarantees of up to $500,000—far beyond the $100,000 prize pool guarantee available to Pennsylvania players in 2024. This increased competition and larger prizes will be a game-changer for the state’s poker community, raising the stakes and enhancing the overall player experience.

But the impact does not stop there. The expansion will also open doors to high-profile satellite events for live tournaments like the PokerStars’ North American Poker Tour and BetMGM’s hybrid online-live events. By pooling players from multiple states, the network creates a more dynamic and competitive poker environment, offering players access to more action and bigger rewards than ever before.

888poker Raises the Stakes for High-Stakes Poker Enthusiasts this Christmas

Posted on December 25, 2024 by Kelley N.

As poker enthusiasts settle in for long winter nights this holiday season, 888poker’s revamped platform promises an arena of excitement and opportunity. Whether you are spinning up small stakes or embracing the thrill of the action, the table is set for a memorable Christmas in the world of online poker.

With new features, increased limits, and an eye on innovation, the platform is making waves as it sets the stage for a thrilling end to 2024. That is especially true with the reintroduction of its high-stakes cash games.

Unmatched Low-Risk Fun

Traditionally capped at $5/$10, 888poker’s No-Limit Hold’em tables have seen a festive upgrade. Players can now compete at $10/$20 and $25/$50 stakes, with buy-ins ranging from $400 to $5,000. For those who thrive on higher risk, Push or Fold tables now feature dizzying stakes of $50/$100 and $100/$200. These formats are designed to push players to their limits, allowing only two choices preflop: go all-in or fold.

This daring addition to the platform caters to players who seek the adrenaline rush of high-stakes games. 888poker is making a bold move by positioning itself as a haven for competitive poker enthusiasts while rekindling the spirit of high-stakes drama that has captivated audiences for decades. By limiting the rake, the platform also ensures that more winnings remain with the players, fostering trust and goodwill within its community.

Complementing this is the Card Strike feature, which spices up gameplay by allowing players to win cash prizes of up to $10,000 without additional cost. Players can check off random cards during their games, adding a strategic layer to the traditional poker experience.

Card Strike is not merely an addition to the table. It is a carefully crafted feature aimed at enhancing the casual player experience. By tying a tangible goal—completing the board—to the natural flow of poker hands, the feature rewards consistent participation. Importantly, it requires no additional stakes or investments, as 888poker funds the Card Strike rewards entirely.

The feature aligns perfectly with the platform’s broader strategy of creating a welcoming environment for all types of players, while also maintaining the high-quality standards that seasoned poker enthusiasts expect.

More Goodies

Beyond high-stakes tables, 888poker continues to innovate. The platform recently introduced Pot-Limit Omaha variants with five and six-card formats, catering to fans of more complex strategies. SNAP poker, a fast-fold format, remains a standout offering, whisking players to new tables instantly after folding, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience.

Global Poker Rings in the Holidays with Record-Breaking Prizes

Posted on December 2, 2024 by Kelley N.

Global Poker is ushering in the holiday season with a thrilling lineup of promotions running from December 1 to 26. Players can dive into daily opportunities across tournaments, Sit-n-Gos, ring games, and slots, competing for GC 200,000,000 and SC 500,000 in guaranteed prizes. With bonuses, mystery bounties, and exclusive merchandise on the table, this festive campaign is set to captivate poker enthusiasts.

Adding to the excitement, Olympic legend and Global Poker ambassador Michael Phelps is at the center of the campaign. Phelps, known for his strategic mindset and love of competition, highlighted his enthusiasm for working with Global Poker and bringing new experiences to the community. His partnership underscores the platform’s commitment to enhancing player engagement and creating memorable events.

Daily Surprises for Every Player

Throughout the month, Global Poker’s calendar is packed with events like freerolls, slot challenges, and scratcher giveaways. Promotions such as Amplifier Amped-Up, which injects bonus coins into random ring game pots, and Gold Digger, offering SC 85,000 in prizes, ensure players have plenty of incentives to participate. Sit-and-go enthusiasts can also look forward to instant rewards, while slot players can tackle dedicated challenges for additional prizes.

The Grand Finale

The campaign culminates on December 26 with the much-anticipated Unfold The Present Finals, featuring GC 200,000,000 and SC 500,000 in guaranteed prizes. Half of the prize pools will be allocated as mystery bounties, adding an element of suspense and excitement to the competition.

Entry to the finals is only possible through Stage 1 qualifiers, which run throughout December. Each Stage 1 tournament has an entry fee of GC 99,000 or SC 99, with no limit on attempts, though players can only qualify for the finals once. Satellite feeders, special games, and freerolls offer additional pathways to secure a spot in this exclusive event.

David Lyons, General Manager of Global Poker, described the holiday campaign as a fusion of nostalgia and forward-thinking. He noted that the promotion celebrates poker’s heritage while breaking new ground with its scale and design. Lyons also emphasized the importance of the mystery bounty feature, which brings an added layer of excitement to the gameplay, ensuring that every participant has a shot at a big win.

The Schedule

Gold Coin

Sunday, Dec. 1 – 7 pm ET – GC 200,000,000 Stage 1 [8-Max]
Sunday, Dec. 8 – 7 pm ET – GC 200,000,000 Stage 1 [8-Max]
Sunday, Dec. 15 – 7 pm ET – GC 200,000,000 Stage 1 [8-Max]
Sunday, Dec. 22 – 7 pm ET – GC 200,000,000 Stage 1 [8-Max]
Tuesday, Dec. 24 – 5 pm ET – GC 200,000,000 Stage 1 – Christmas Eve Dash [8-Max, Turbo]
Thursday, Dec. 26 – 3 pm ET – GC 200,000,000 Stage 1 [8-Max]
Thursday, Dec. 26 – 4 pm ET – GC 200,000,000 Stage 1 [8-Max, Turbo]
Thursday, Dec. 26 – 6 pm ET – GC 200,000,000 Stage 1 – Last Chance [8-Max, Hyper-Turbo]
Thursday, Dec. 26 – 8 pm ET – GC 200,000,000 GTD Final [Mystery Bounty, 8-Max, Turbo]

Sweeps Coin

Sunday, Dec. 1 – 7 pm ET – SC 500,000 Stage 1 [8-Max]
Sunday, Dec. 8 – 7 pm ET – SC 500,000 Stage 1 [8-Max]
Sunday, Dec. 15 – 7 pm ET – SC 500,000 Stage 1 [8-Max]
Sunday, Dec. 22 – 7 pm ET – SC 500,000 Stage 1 [8-Max]
Tuesday, Dec. 24 – 5 pm ET – SC 500,000 Stage 1 – Christmas Eve Dash [8-Max, Turbo]
Thursday, Dec. 26 – 3 pm ET – SC 500,000 Stage 1 [8-Max]
Thursday, Dec. 26 – 4 pm ET – SC 500,000 Stage 1 [8-Max, Turbo]
Thursday, Dec. 26 – 6 pm ET – SC 500,000 Stage 1 – Last Chance [8-Max, Hyper-Turbo]
Thursday, Dec. 26 – 8 pm ET – SC 500,000 GTD Final [Mystery Bounty, 8-Max, Turbo]

CoinPoker Announces Meme Millions Tournament with $1M in Prizes and Crypto Airdrops

Posted on November 9, 2024 by Kelley N.

CoinPoker, one of the leading platforms in the online poker industry, is gearing up for its highly anticipated Meme Millions Tournament Series, set to kick off on November 17. With a massive $1,000,000 in prizes on the table, this week-long event, running through November 24, is poised to bring a fresh twist to the world of poker by merging it with the red-hot realm of meme coins.

Tailored for Meme Coin Fans

The Meme Millions Tournament Series promises to attract both poker enthusiasts and meme coin fans alike. For newcomers, it offers an exciting introduction to the world of meme coins, while seasoned crypto investors can further diversify their portfolios while enjoying high-stakes poker action.

With 13 individual events centered around some of the most popular meme coins, the tournament offers a unique opportunity to engage with coins like Dogecoin, Shiba Inu, Pepe, and Baby DogeCoin. Alongside these well-known assets, lesser-known meme coins such as Brett, Book of Meme, and Cat in a Dog’s World will also make their appearances.

Spanning multiple poker formats, including No Limit Hold’em (NLHE), Pot Limit Omaha (PLO), and Progressive Knock Out (PKO), the tournament caters to a wide variety of player preferences. Participants will not only compete for huge cash prizes but also have the chance to scoop up a share of $30,000 in meme coin airdrops.

Meme Coin Airdrops: A New Dimension to Poker

What sets the Meme Millions Tournament Series apart from other poker events is its innovative integration of meme coin airdrops. To qualify for these airdrops, players must participate in at least one of the 13 Meme Millions Events. With each event linked to a different meme coin, players will earn entries into the draw for a chance to win a portion of the airdrop for that specific coin. Winners will be announced on Sunday livestreams, where the results are determined via a randomized wheel of names. All transactions and winners will be publicly verified on the blockchain for full transparency.

Accessible Buy-Ins and Game Variations

One of the other highlights of the Meme Millions Tournament Series is its accessibility. Buy-ins range from a modest $1 to $5,000 (USDT), ensuring there’s a spot for players of all experience levels. The series also introduces a variety of poker formats, including Turbo, Standard, and Deepstack, so players can choose the type of game that best suits their strategy and preferences.

The $5,000 MEMEsis (Meme Millions Edition) event, scheduled for November 23, offers a guaranteed prize pool of $130,000, making it one of the biggest events of the series. For those with smaller budgets, the Meme Million Event (MEW—Cat in a Dog’s World) offers a $1 buy-in with a guaranteed prize of $400, making it a great entry point for beginners. In addition to the main tournament events, the series also features meme coin airdrop specials, which allow participants multiple chances to win a share of the airdrop pool.

Sidebetz Aims to Transform Poker Streaming with Dynamic Real-Time Betting Options

Posted on October 30, 2024 by Kelley N.

Poker fans are getting a new way to engage with the game thanks to Sidebetz, which has introduced a groundbreaking feature that allows viewers to place bets on every hand in real-time during Hustler Casino Live streams. Designed to provide an immersive and interactive experience, Sidebetz’s new betting model is making waves, as viewers can now make wagers on each hand and street, offering a fresh dimension to watching poker unfold.

Unlike conventional poker streaming, where fans observe the action from a distance, Sidebetz allows users to actively participate. Using a dynamic odds engine, Sidebetz adjusts odds based on each play, transforming each hand into an engaging decision for the viewer.

This makes Sidebetz ideal for poker aficionados looking for a more involved experience as well as newcomers hoping to learn by engaging with real-game scenarios. But it does not stop there.

Getting in on the Action with No Risk

One of the standout features of Sidebetz is that all betting is done with play money, allowing participants to enjoy the excitement of betting without risking actual cash. The play-money format broadens accessibility, as users can engage with the experience without concerns about legality or potential loss.

The platform is also designed to be intuitive, making it approachable for both new and experienced players alike, and enhances poker fans’ learning and strategic decision-making without financial commitment.

According to Sidebetz, the move toward real-time, in-game betting is part of a larger trend to make poker more interactive, aligning with global shifts in how audiences engage with live content. Ryan Feldman, co-owner of Hustler Casino Live, expressed enthusiasm about Sidebetz’s initiative, seeing it as an innovative way to deepen viewer involvement and enable fans to feel directly connected to each hand and outcome.

To top it all off, with global accessibility, Sidebetz opens its interactive poker experience to fans worldwide, making it possible for anyone to dive into the action, no matter their location or level of experience.

This launch with Hustler Casino Live marks the beginning of what Sidebetz hopes will be broader partnerships with poker operators internationally. Plans to expand into new markets and collaborate on major tournaments, special-format games, and other live-streamed events are already underway, promising to deepen Sidebetz’s reach and offer fans new, interactive ways to watch poker across various formats and regions.

CoinPoker Welcomes Pro Players as It Aims to Build the Ultimate Blockchain Poker Platform

Posted on October 11, 2024 by Kelley N.

The world of online poker is evolving, and crypto poker platforms are stepping up their game by signing professional players to elevate the industry to new heights. Among these platforms is CoinPoker, which has recently announced the addition of poker pros Mario Mosböck and Patrick Leonard to its team, a significant move as the platform works toward becoming the best online poker site in the crypto space.

CoinPoker, a blockchain-based poker room, has not only attracted these high-profile players but also set itself apart by introducing Proof of Reserves (PoR), assuring players that their funds are secure and transparent, visible on the blockchain.

More on the Ambassadors

Mario Mosböck, a former Austrian footballer turned poker professional, and Patrick Leonard, one of the top-ranked online poker players globally, have signed on as official ambassadors for CoinPoker. Both players bring not only their expertise but also a shared mission to build the best online poker site using blockchain technology.

Mario Mosböck, with over $11.7 million in live tournament earnings and a notable presence in high-stakes cash games, expressed enthusiasm for CoinPoker’s transparency initiatives, including its Proof of Reserves. His partnership with the platform reflects his belief in its potential to revolutionize the online poker world.

Patrick Leonard, who has over $19.2 million in online earnings and a WSOP bracelet to his name, is equally invested in helping CoinPoker develop a safe, reliable, and cutting-edge platform. He has been actively involved in working with CoinPoker to produce its PoR report, which highlights the platform’s commitment to user security and financial integrity.

CoinPoker’s Proof of Reserves

CoinPoker’s Proof of Reserves (PoR) is a key differentiator that positions it ahead of traditional poker platforms. In the aftermath of the infamous Full Tilt Poker scandal, where user funds were mismanaged, CoinPoker’s approach offers a refreshing layer of trust. The platform ensures that all user deposits are backed 1:1 in cold wallets, with additional reserves held in hot wallets for instant withdrawals.

By utilizing blockchain technology, CoinPoker provides real-time verification of these reserves, which can be viewed by players at any time through platforms like Etherscan, Blockchain.com, and BSCScan. As of now, CoinPoker holds approximately $16.75 million in reserves, exceeding the total deposits of $16 million, ensuring a coverage rate of 105%.

This level of transparency is a major selling point for pro players like Mosböck and Leonard, who prioritize security and fairness in the online gaming space. With CoinPoker, they aim to create a platform that not only caters to crypto enthusiasts but also sets a new standard for online poker.

New Graphic Novel Blending Poker Action and Crypto Insights

Posted on September 10, 2024 by Kelley N.

In a world where poker pros and crypto traders thrive on high stakes and strategy, there is a new project on the horizon that blends the thrill of poker with the storytelling allure of a graphic novel. If you are a lover of poker and the exciting, ever-changing world of digital currencies, then expect to love Trapped, the creation of poker pundit and stand-up comedian Joe Stapleton.

The Allure of the Story

At the heart of Trapped is Joe, a poker prodigy who’s feeling the weight of the game’s evolution. Joe, who used to be a very energetic and unpredictable player, is becoming less invested in the game as it becomes more dependent on mathematical analysis and less on reading his opponents. Does this ring a bell? It is no different from the disappointment felt by many cryptocurrency traders when confronted with algorithmic trading, which replaces intuition and gut sensations with computational accuracy and market volatility.

His life takes a turn when Joe loses his job as a poker commentator, which leaves him resentful and emotionally distant from the game. Anyone who has ever felt the grind of the daily struggle, whether they are traders or poker players, can relate to his aggravation.

All the elements that make poker and cryptocurrency so interesting—the chance to win big or lose it all—are here in this one-of-a-kind mix of action, humor, and personal story. Neil Gibson, creator of Twisted Comics, adds a contemporary and edgy spin to the story, which is sure to please even the new generation of fans.

More Than a Story

The story is deeply personal, inspired by Stapleton’s own experiences in the poker world. But it is also a rewarding experience – we would probably not include it otherwise. Anybody interested in crypto or poker may back Trapped on Kickstarter and have a say in the project’s progression. For just $10, backers can have the book in digital form, and for $20, they can get a physical copy. Pledge levels beyond the basic level unlock more exclusive benefits, such as tickets to Stapleton’s stand-up comedy performances, private poker sessions with the man, and other experiences that combine his comic and poker backgrounds.

The Trapped Kickstarter goes above and above by providing a variety of bonuses for comic book and poker fans. Fans may completely immerse themselves in the Trapped universe with branded merchandise such as playing cards, t-shirts, and sticker

GGPoker’s $500M Acquisition of WSOP Marks New Chapter for Poker’s Top Brand

Posted on August 8, 2024August 8, 2024 by Kelley N.

In a significant shift within the poker industry, Caesars Entertainment has recently announced the sale of the iconic World Series of Poker (WSOP) to Toronto-based iGaming investment firm NSUS Group, known for owning GGPoker and other prominent online gambling platforms. The acquisition, valued at $500 million, includes the intellectual property rights for the WSOP. NSUS Group will make an upfront payment of $250 million, with the remaining amount to be paid over the next five years.

Noting the company’s lengthy partnership with Caesars Entertainment, NSUS Group CEO Michael Kim expressed his excitement about the transaction. He emphasized that GGPoker’s expertise in the field and cutting-edge technology will spearhead WSOP’s future, improving the brand’s worldwide reach and player experience. He further said that under NSUS Group’s leadership, the WSOP is poised to continue its legacy as the premier poker brand while pushing the boundaries of poker’s growth on an international scale.

This is not the first time the WSOP brand has changed hands. Caesars, then operating as Harrah’s, acquired the WSOP and Horseshoe brand in 2004 for $50 million following the Binion family’s loss of control over its casino. The acquisition came at a pivotal moment as the poker boom, ignited by Chris Moneymaker’s 2003 Main Event win, was in full swing. Harrah’s subsequently moved the WSOP from the Las Vegas Strip to the Rio in 2005, where it remained until relocating to the Las Vegas Horseshoe and Paris in 2022.

What About the Events?

Despite the change in ownership, the WSOP’s signature summer events will continue to be hosted at Caesars Entertainment’s Las Vegas casinos for the next two decades. Caesars will retain the use of WSOP branding at its physical casino locations and maintain preferential rights to host live WSOP Circuit events, according to the press release.

However, with GGPoker’s extensive global operations, there are plans to significantly increase the number of WSOP events, both live and online, across Asia, Europe, South America, and Canada. GGPoker, already a key platform for WSOP events and satellites, is expected to leverage its new ownership to solidify its position as the world’s largest online poker site.

Caesars Digital’s WSOP Online platforms in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Nevada, and New Jersey are also part of the deal. For the time being, Caesars Digital will keep running these online poker rooms, but they will be subject to regulations that prevent them from running P2P real-money poker games online (with a few exceptions, of course).

While the four jurisdictions work to resolve licensing issues and make adjustments to the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement, which currently permits WSOP to share player pools across New Jersey, Michigan, and Nevada, the online poker rooms may temporarily close.

CAT³ Poker Launches Innovative Meme Token for Blockchain Poker Community

Posted on July 7, 2024 by Kelley N.

By merging the excitement of poker with the advantages of blockchain technology, CAT³ Poker is about to shake up the online poker market. The platform promises to provide a one-of-a-kind and exciting experience for both players and investors alike, with a particular emphasis on openness, security, and community interaction.

Built to provide value, transparency, and engagement, the CAT³ token is the engine that drives the Cat³ Poker ecosystem. In contrast to pump-and-dump scams or meme currencies that have no practical use, provides genuine rewards and utility for all those participating.

The operations of the platform are dependent on the token, and it holds a total quantity of 21 million tokens. Early backers will have a great chance to become a part of the community and reap the rewards of the platform’s expansion when the presale begins on July 11, 2024. 5% of the entire supply will be given out as an airdrop, and there will be a continuous 1% total supply airdrop worth $50,000 at launch.

Key Features

Blockchain Security: With its strong blockchain foundation, CAT³ Poker ensures that all transactions are safe and open. The reliability and safety of all users are improved by this technical base.
Community-Driven Profit Sharing: It offers a novel profit-sharing mechanism that is driven by the community, and it distributes all revenues to token holders in full. By incorporating them into the platform, investors become partial owners and stand to gain directly from its success.
Decentralized Governance: On the platform, token holders have a say in important decisions thanks to decentralized governance. In addition to ensuring openness and democratic decision-making, this mechanism gives the community more authority.

Community Involvement

Building a strong community is a top priority for CAT³ Poker. To foster involvement and innovation among users, they want to hold contests and events regularly. An airdrop event and meme contest are being planned by CAT³ to launch this effort. All are invited to take part and earn rewards.

CubeCat, the mascot of the platform, reflects the joyful and participatory attitude of the community, which is what makes CAT3 Poker more than simply a gaming site; it is a place where people can connect and interact with themselves.

Careful planning is essential to the platform’s future as it strives to ensure ongoing innovation and improvement. To maintain its position as a leading player in the online poker business, the operator plans to implement regular improvements and implement a comprehensive worldwide growth strategy.

Vegas Infinite: Immersive Mobile Casino Adventure Now on Android

Posted on June 4, 2024 by Kelley N.

An Android version of Flutter Entertainment’s virtual reality social casino, Vegas Infinite, is now available in Google Play’s Early Access program. Hot on the heels of last year’s VR-optional PC edition, this latest release gives players even more ways to enjoy the application without a headset.

A Highly Anticipated Update

The highly anticipated release for Android smartphones is the culmination of Vegas Infinite’s recent rebranding and growth, which have catapulted it to new heights. With support for iOS and iPad soon to follow, gamers will never have to miss a moment of the excitement of high-stakes gambling.

Director of Virtual Reality and Innovation at PokerStars, James O’Reilly, was astounded by the Android version’s advancement after months of development. He stressed that the game has been remade from the ground up on Android, making it easy to play without compromising the original’s diverse and rich experience.

“Vegas Infinite stands apart for the quality of our environments, the authenticity of our games, and the participation of our community, so we had already set ourselves a very high bar.”

James O’Reilly, PokerStars Director of VR and Innovation

This is, however, just a milestone in the platform’s solid track record.

Described as a “groundbreaking virtual reality experience” by PokerStars, a Flutter subsidiary, Vegas Infinite made a splash when it launched in 2018. With a rebranding and an expansion beyond poker, last year’s upgrades elevated it to the next level, providing a more authentic metaverse gambling experience. An adaptable PC version, giving users the option to play in either the standard or VR modes, was launched not long after the rebranding. They were certainly playing the long game.

What To Expect

Full Redesign: The game’s depth and complexity have been preserved throughout the rebuilding process, which also prioritized making it easy to play on Android.
Immersive Gameplay: Players may virtually converse with others while interacting with objects, seeing cards, handling chips, and shaking and tossing dice.
Innovative Avatar System: With additional features coming shortly, players may choose from thirty different personalized character designs.
Cross-Platform Bonuses: Players receive credits for personalizing clothing and accessories, as well as a 30,000-chip welcome bonus and free chip top-ups every eight hours.
Safety Tools: Features that may be customized for each player include player reports, spending limitations, and breaks. The development of Vegas Infinite has consistently emphasized player safety. To maintain this promise, the game employs ToxMod, a live chat monitoring platform driven by artificial intelligence, in conjunction with its devoted moderation personnel. In addition, a variety of in-game safety measures are at the player’s disposal, enabling them to take breaks as required, set spending limits, report problematic conduct, and customize their degree of contact with other players.

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