online-poker-tablets

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

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.

 

 

high-stakes-888poker

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

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

Global Poker Rings in the Holidays with Record-Breaking Prizes

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-logo

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

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.

WSOP_Logo

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

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.

poker-on-laptop

Pennsylvania’s Poker Revolution Gains Momentum with #GrowPAPoker Movement

Players, industry insiders, and activists from Pennsylvania’s online poker community came together this week in a historic display of unity for the #GrowPAPoker campaign, marking a historic juncture for this community. Starting on May 7th, when word got out about this effort, the whole poker community came together on X to show their support. Together, these groups worked to rally support for the campaign and get it off the ground.

Protesters gathered outside the Pennsylvania State Capitol, the Pennsylvania State Capitol, with placards reading “Let Pennsylvania Poker Flourish” and “Shared Liquidity Now” and wearing poker-themed outfits. By all accounts, this was the most effective means of attracting the attention of powerful legislators who could do anything about it.

To keep the ball rolling, PokerStars PA invited all registered players to a special freeroll event that they were conducting during the week. This action emphasized the value of the #GrowPAPoker campaign and emphasized the role that operator support plays in propelling the expansion of online poker.

Why #GrowPAPoker?

If Pennsylvania were to be included in the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), the state would be allowed to combine its player pools with those of other member jurisdictions, such as Nevada, New Jersey, Michigan, and Delaware. This would pave the way for online poker to keep growing in the US.

The group’s overarching goal is to increase operator income and player numbers by getting shared liquidity in online poker legalized. But is that all?

Shared liquidity is being proposed at a critical moment for the online poker scene in Pennsylvania, which has seen only modest growth since it started in 2019. Proponents argue that operators would benefit from an increased player pool and stronger income streams as a result of integration with nearby jurisdictions like Nevada and New Jersey. Also, they are confident that players would also enjoy getting a more exciting and dynamic gaming experience.

Big Day for US Poker

Pushing Pennsylvania to join the MSIGA is, in some ways, also an essential first step in reviving the US online poker scene. More players means more traffic, more tournament guarantees, and more tax income for the states. Additionally, this cooperative effort may act as an inspiration for other states to think about regulating online poker, which would support the growth of the industry across the country.

So far, the results are looking good. The activists vowed to keep fighting for shared liquidity until it becomes a legal requirement in Pennsylvania. With the support of legislators, industry leaders, and a committed player base, the #GrowPAPoker campaign is about to have a lasting impact on the future of online poker in the state.

 

crypto-poker

Has Blockchain Succeeded in Reshaping Online Poker?

Online poker tournaments will seemingly be the next big thing in the gambling industry to be transformed by blockchain technology. In fact, in some ways, this is already happening.

It is easy to see how we got here. First, the widespread use of collusion and cheating has been an issue in online poker events for quite some time. Blockchain technology’s immutability and transparency make it ideal for addressing these concerns directly. It is possible to record every transaction and move made during games, which guarantees a fair playing field that is free from manipulation. Furthermore, due to its decentralized nature, blockchain greatly reduces the likelihood of theft or mismanagement, increasing the security of player funds.

Today, a major shift has occurred with the implementation of smart contracts into poker tournaments. The rules and compensation are automatically determined and enforced by these self-executing contracts, which have conditions encoded straight into code.

But it is not just the tournaments and money that blockchain technology is protecting. Privacy concerns have long plagued online poker players, who are sometimes compelled to provide personal details on more conventional sites. Blockchain technology presents an elegant solution to this problem. By limiting player identification to their wallet addresses alone, poker operators can prevent fraud and identity theft while also protecting players’ privacy.

Expanded Horizons

The use of blockchain in poker is not all about fixing issues though. This is especially true in 2024 when more people than ever are aware of it in one way or the other. Blockchain technology opens the door to a world without borders, where anyone may participate regardless of their location, banking status, or currency limits, in contrast to more traditional platforms.

Furthermore, it may serve as a platform for international events, uniting players from many cultural backgrounds and promoting poker potentially as a game of skill. Not only does this improve the game as a whole, but it also opens up great possibilities for gamers all over the globe to band together and compete.

Looking Ahead

Crypto and blockchain technology seem to have limitless future applications in the poker industry. An increasing number of online poker sites are accepting digital currencies as a key payment option, giving players more freedom and safety in their financial dealings, thanks to the widespread acceptance of cryptocurrencies. Even more so, as blockchain technology evolves, new and fascinating gaming platforms and features will emerge, giving online poker players even more to look forward to.

vbet-uspf

Ukrainian Sport Poker Federation and VBET Announce Spring Pick Series

VBET and the Ukrainian Sport Poker Federation have just launched the Spring Pick Series, which will provide poker players from all over the world with a once-in-a-lifetime chance. This series, set to take place from March 4th to March 21st, 2024, is going to be more than just a poker tournament; it’s going to be an exciting adventure where players can show off their skills and compete for valuable cash prizes and special invitations to the prominent Ukrainian Championship of Sports Poker.

If you are a poker enthusiast, the Spring Pick Series is your stepping stone to the prestigious Ukrainian Championship of Sports Poker, where you may put your skills to the test against the best in the world. The Sonata Hotel in Lviv will host the spectacular event from March 21st to March 31st, 2024. Competitors are preparing for an exciting challenge where talent, strategy, and pure drive will decide the winners, with a guaranteed prize pool of over €150,000 ($163,443). Expectations are high.

More Goodies

To turn up the excitement, the Championship is split into three well-planned qualification phases, with eight thrilling events in each. There is an additional level of opulence and competitiveness in the closed Final of the Championship when the top three finishers from each qualifying stage get the coveted permits to compete.

Throughout the designated time, players are invited to join the tournaments held on the Stretch Network poker platform to fully immerse themselves in the amazing action. The entire gaming experience is further enhanced by the presence of this user-friendly platform, which not only makes participation very easy to do but also provides players with a plethora of options to strive for success and claim distinctive awards.

VBET’s Growth Streak

As a whole, the partnership highlights VBET’s persistent commitment to creating fulfilling experiences for its active community of contributors and partners. As the global gaming business evolves, VBET maintains its position as an innovator and pioneer by always challenging the status quo and redefining what it means to be excellent. But the company is not stopping there.

Expanding its reach outside the poker world, VBET has also recently established a revolutionary partnership with the Argentine Football Association (AFA), highlighting its dedication to the merging of entertainment and sports.

The AFA is a symbol of unparalleled athletic achievement, as they are the current football champions and have a legendary history that includes three World Cup wins. With VBET as its European regional betting partner for the Argentina national team, this partnership is sure to increase the excitement and thrill of the beautiful game.

Hawaii Considering Online Poker and Sports Betting Bill

As we go deeper into 2024, proposed legislation in Hawaii seeks to legalize online poker and sports betting, marking a major departure from the state’s traditionally rigid attitude toward gambling. Senator Ronald Kouchi, a Democrat, is the driving force behind this bill, which has the potential to bring about a sea change in a state that up until now has not had any legal casinos or card rooms.

Ambitious Plans for Revenue Sharing

If approved, the bill would pave the way for the Aloha State to welcome its first casino as well as other forms of internet gambling including poker and sports betting. A fundamental component of the plan is a revenue-sharing agreement with one casino operator, where the state’s portion gets smaller over time.

The proceeds that are produced via all of this will be designated for the wildfire fund of the state, to reduce the destructive effects of wildfires such as those that occurred in Maui in August.

The bill also seeks to establish a regulatory framework that protects Hawaii residents while collecting taxes from online gambling, since it recognizes that many locals use offshore gaming sites. Supporters of the proposal want to divert monies from offshore online sports betting and poker into public coffers, which they believe would be good for everyone in the state.

Currently, the bill does not include provisions to join the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA), which allows shared liquidity among poker operators in other states. However, this aspect of the bill may evolve as the legislative process progresses.

A Growing Trend

Whether Hawaii’s unique approach, coupled with its focus on wildfire relief, will garner enough support to pass the bill remains to be seen. Still, the proposed legislation in Hawaii reflects a broader trend across the United States, with other states like New York and Maryland also exploring the possibility of legalizing online poker.

The regulated US online poker market is currently dominated by operators like WSOP/888 network, BetMGM, and PokerStars, each with a significant presence across several states. Now iPoker is poised to join the fray and players in state markets like Hawaii may soon have more options. The exact timeline for iPoker’s entry remains uncertain, but there’s optimism about significant progress soon. iPoker’s potential presence in the US market could unfold through partnerships or its network by late 2024 or 2025, promising an exciting period of growth and diversification.

doyle-brunson

Poker Community Honors Doyle Brunson

On October 2, 2023, the global community of poker paid tribute to a poker icon by the name of Doyle Brunson, who is regarded as the ‘Godfather of Poker.’ Doyle won the World Series of Poker Main Event in 1976 and 1977 with the now-famous 10-2 hand, part of why he is considered a legend.

Famous poker players Andrew Neeme, Brad Owen, and Doug Polk, who operate the Lodge Card Club, collaborated with the poker player agency Poker Royalty to honor Doyle Brunson on his birthday. They announced a thrilling incentive for those who were willing to try their luck with the legendary ten-deuce.

Winners of hands where the hole cards were 10-2 will be put into a raffle tonight at midnight if they scored trips or better with those cards. One fortunate participant won the big prize of $10,200 on October 3.

More Goodies

There was a special event tonight with a $102 buy-in and a $2,000 guaranteed prize pool for those who couldn’t get enough activity. Both tournament and cash game players were eligible for this promotion, which offered a total of $10,200 in prizes. Even the high hand qualification was dropped to tens full of deuces (until 10:00 pm) in poker venues under the Live! name in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and Hanover, Maryland.

At the Peppermill Casino in Reno, Nevada, between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m., players who made a flush or full house with 10-2 were awarded $100. WPT Prime Madrid poker festival participants who won a hand with 10-2 were entered into a drawing for a $1,100 place in the WPT Prime Championship. An exciting $1,000 Cash Giveaway competition was also open to ClubWPT VIP and Diamond members.

While not much of the growing crypto poker world was involved, it was certainly a great way to commemorate someone who had such a huge impact on the game we know and love. Maybe next year.

Why Doyle Was Such a Big Deal

Doyle Brunson won the World Series of Poker Main Event twice (1976 and 1977), placing him in a tie for second place all-time alongside giants like Phil Ivey and Johnny Chan. However, his legacy goes much beyond his ten career bracelets. With 17 bracelets, Phil Hellmuth is far and away the leader. Brunson built his wealth in the high-stakes cash games in Las Vegas, but he won around $6.2 million in live poker tournaments.

Brunson is well-known not just for his skill at the poker table, but also for writing “Super/System,” which is usually considered the most important book on the subject. He worked with a team of specialists to develop “Super/System 2.”