Monthly Archives: January 2024

Last week, Arden Cho finished as runner-up to Daniel Smiljkovic in the PGT Championship, winning $200,000 in the process.

Cho is no stranger to the PokerGO studio, having previously gambled with Phil Hellmuth on No Gamble, No Future and has played in several cash games at the venue. But this result felt like a step forward in the actress's poker career, and she spoke with PokerNews about her experience and where her poker journey would take her next.

Thanks to tournament sponsor Eat Mezcla, Cho found herself seated in a star-studded field and played on Day 1 with the likes of Chance Kornuth, Artur Martirosyan and 2023 WSOP Main Event Champion Daniel Weinman.

"Everyone in the field was a top pro," she told PokerNews. "So every situation was tough! I had to make so many tough calls and tough folds. When it got down to about 14 players, I felt like I folded my way to the final six.

Daniel Smiljkovic Rallies to Defeat Arden Cho Heads-Up for PGT Championship Title ($500,000)

"But I was having a great time watching, learning as I was going and adjusting to the game. I spoke with Maria Ho before the tournament, and she gave me a ton of advice and a lot of help. I almost gave up multiple times when I got down to like 15 big blinds, but the support was tremendous, and somehow I held on and got doubles when they counted."

Making it through Day 1 was "unreal", says Cho, but with Day 2 seeing Cho make her first major final table, she says that nerves played a huge part.

"I didnt have much of a game plan, I just didn't want to bust first,"

"I didnt have much of a game plan. I just didn't want to bust first," she admitted. "Brian Kim went over some scenarios with me and explained ICM, and gave me as many final table tips/advice as he could.

"Initially, I planned to play fairly snugly. I was coming in as a shorter stack with very little final table experience, so I was just hoping to make the pay jumps and let the guys battle it out."

The advice worked, with Cho working her way through the final table and showing real tournament know-how to make the most of her deep run.

"As the blinds were picking up, I felt like I really had to pick some spots to survive. I also just adjusted to how I felt everybody was playing [against] me. I knew I was the weakest player at the table; my blinds were always attacked, and everyone played fairly aggressively.

"This is what I love about tournament poker, Im learning so much every single time I play"

"There was a Kx4x four-bet bluff when we were three-handed - that was my first time ever trying something like that, and I never knew you could do things like that with certain combinations of hands and apply pressure to players because of ICM. It was so exciting to try! Probably more exciting that it was successful. After the tournament, I spoke to Brian and told him that if I hadnt spoken to him, I think I wouldve gotten 5th or 6th.

"But again, this is what I love about tournament poker, Im learning so much every single time I play."

Cho says the heads-up against Smiljkovic was a "mental battle", and although it didn't go her way on this occasion, she says she was always realistic about her chances and is looking forward to taking what she's learned and applying it to future occasions.

"I knew I had no shot unless I got super lucky," she confessed. "Hes too good. I have no heads-up experience. Im sure my play was atrocious. I made a bad call in the end when I thought he only had 11 big blinds to actually double him up for over 17 big blinds.

"But he deserves the trophy. Hes a better player, and Im so glad to have had the experience because I definitely learned a few things from playing Dan heads-up!"

An incident on Day 1 of the PGT Championship got the poker world talking, with many believing that Jeff Lennon had gone too far with the way he interacted with the former Teen Wolf and Partner Track star.

While appearing intoxicated, Lennon quizzed Cho on everything from her status as an amateur player to whether she had a boyfriend, even going so far as to question her sexuality. When asked, Cho said that this happens "just about every time" she sits down to play poker.

Seemingly Intoxicated Poker Player on PGT Championship Stream Puts Viewers on Tilt

"This was just a small glimpse of what it's like being a woman at a poker table," she said. "So you can just imagine how bad it can get. Hopefully, moments like these being caught on stream and people voicing their opinions will change the way men act with women at the poker table.

"As someone who loves poker and hopes more women play - Im thankful for the allies speaking out and having our backs in those spots. Im a bit immune to it, but I do hope for change and see it slowly happening."

Cho told PokerNews that Lennon had, in fact, reached out to her in the aftermath to apologize.

"I believe his intentions weren't malicious, and he might have just had a few too many tequila shots!" she said before adding: "There are also a lot of really stand-up men in the poker community who are very welcoming to recreational and women players."

Cho says that going forward, balancing life with poker and her career in acting will become more difficult as she heads off to film her next project, but she insists that her poker hobby will still provide her with ample learning experiences.

"With acting, I put in an insane amount of preparation and work prior to filming, and even while filming, I'm constantly putting in work. I suppose if I want to keep playing tournaments, I should do the same for poker but can you blame me for wanting to keep it fun and exciting?

"I think I put the chips in bad at least four times this tournament and said 'Oops'. Because theres always a chance to get lucky! I still try to learn from my mistakes every time I play, but its more of a learn as you go style. Ive had so much fun playing a bunch of tournaments in 2023. I can't promise a tonne of tournaments, but expect to see me on the felt on my days off - especially if I'm invited to any other cool tournaments!"

Will Shillibier is the European Executive Editor for PokerNews and based in the United Kingdom. He started working for PokerNews as a freelance live reporter in 2015 and joined the full-time staff in 2019. He graduated from the University of Kent in 2017 with a B.A. in German. He also holds an NCTJ Diploma in Sports Journalism.

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Arden Cho Reflects on PGT Controversy, Continuing to Learn and Her Future in Poker - PokerNews.com

Dear San Diego

Michael Zucchetis one of those guys who listens more than he talks, and his calm and thoughtful demeanor has served him well at the poker table and at the negotiating table.

Ive never played poker with him, but I know him enough to know hes an understated, thoughtful guy, one of these guys who listens more than he talks, and Im guessing thats how he plays poker, said Dear San Diego co-host Tony Manolatos.

Zucchet oversees the City of San Diegos largest labor union as General Manager of the San Diego Municipal Employees Association.

In addition to his day job, Michael is one of San Diegos leading political minds, frequently called on for his strategic advice and recommendations. Hes also a fierce poker player, enjoying rare success in Vegas. Michael also serves as aSan Diego Port Commissioner.

Hes married with two kids and he and his family reside in Ocean Beach. Its his family life, he says, thats the priority and it may not have been if his political career did not take an unexpected turn.

The Dear San Diego podcast with Tony Manolatos and Juan Hernandez is produced by JC Polk ofOlas Mediaat the digital branding companys studios in Mission Valley.

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Dear San Diego Podcast: Michael Zucchet on Family, Unions, Politics and Poker - Times of San Diego

Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for Percy Jackson & the Olympians season 1, episode 6, "We Take a Zebra to Vegas."

Percy Jackson & the Olympians episode 6 features the Lotus Casino scene from Rick Riordan's books, but it misses out on the perfect callback to the movies. The Disney+ series is giving Riordan's best-selling novels a second chance on-screen, something that's come as a relief to those disappointed with the short-lived Percy Jackson film series. Despite the movies' negative reception, certain elements from the original adaptations have proven memorable including their original casting.

While Walker Scobell is masterfully capturing Percy Jackson's book mannerisms, many fans continue to associate Logan Lerman with the young demigod. The Percy Jackson movies' trio Lerman, Alexandra Daddario, and Brandon T. Jackson are still iconic in their roles, even if new talent has taken over. And the films do have a few other strengths, which is why the Percy Jackson show should have worked in a callback during its casino episode.

Percy Jackson & the Olympians episodes 1-6 are currently streaming on Disney+.

Disney's Percy Jackson show had the opportunity to reference the movies during its casino scene, a nod it could have accomplished in multiple ways. To start, the usage of Lady Gaga's "Poker Face" in 2010's The Lightning Thief is entertaining and iconic. Given that Lady Gaga remains a well-known artist, it wouldn't have felt outdated for the series to use the same song while the new Percy Jackson trio became enthralled by the White Lotus casino. Using "Pokerface" would have maintained the feeling of the moment and offered a fun Easter egg for longtime fans to pick up on.

Sadly, Percy Jackson & the Olympians episode 6 didn't go this route, opting for Dua Lipa's "Levitating" as a backdrop to its casino scene instead. While this fits the vibe and allows Percy Jackson to connect with its modern audience it's a missed opportunity for the Disney series. The show also missed out on the perfect chance to include movie cameos from the original trio.

In addition to including a musical callback to the Percy Jackson movies, the TV adaptation could have used its casino episode to include cameos from Lerman, Daddario, and Jackson. While having Lerman appear in a major role, like that of Poseidon, would have felt heavy-handed, placing the original stars in the background of a chaotic casino scene would have been a fun and fast cameo. It wouldn't have distracted from the story or the new Percy Jackson cast, and it would have acknowledged the adaptations that came before. Sadly, Percy Jackson & the Olympians missed its best opportunity to do this.

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Percy Jackson's Lotus Casino Episode Missed Out On The 1 Movie Callback We've Been Waiting For - Screen Rant

The use of RTA (real-time-assistance) software, especially in the online poker community, is a widespread problem on the increase.

888poker, as one of the leading entities in the poker industry, is actively addressing this challenge head-on for the benefit of its players.

Throughout 2023, 888poker refunded $362,893 to 4,068 players who fell victim to opponents using AI software in the form of bots or RTA, underlining its commitment to player protection.

It's evident that RTA tools provide an unfair advantage at the poker table. Consequently, 888poker has taken on the responsibility of cracking down on players utilizing this AI technology.

In this pursuit, 888poker took action against 161 accounts employing AI (Bots/RTA) software in 2023.

The platform remains unwavering in its dedication to continuing the fight in 2024, ensuring that all players encounter a level playing field when engaging in a game.

The commitment to implementing new technology to combat bots remains pivotal in 888poker's efforts to secure a safe, fair, and enjoyable poker experience for all players.

Continuing the charge into 2024, Matan Krakow, Head of Poker Offering at 888poker, conveyed the commitment to addressing responsible gaming issues within online poker:

Our continued progress in tackling bots stems from the understanding that it is crucial in order to ensure that 888poker continues to provide an enjoyable, safe, and level playing field for all our players.

This has been driven not only by our increased investment in our detection capabilities but also through the continued support and cooperation of our players, who have an important role to play in helping provide us with vital information about players they think are using AI and RTA.

It is not only important for us to detect and block accounts using AI, but also to make sure that players who lost to accounts using illegal software get properly compensated. This year we paid approximately $250K to players out of our own pockets when it was not possible to retain the funds from blocked accounts.

We continue to consult with advisors who are top-notch in terms of analyzing hand histories and detecting non-human patterns. Based on feedback we are receiving, we understand that after much work has been done on this front in the last couple of years, 888 is in very good shape compared to our competitors on this front and has a clean and safe playing environment.

It is an ongoing effort, and we will continue to do all in our power to ensure we keep poker fun and fair, and listening to our players will continue to be a key factor to progress on this front.

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888poker refunded $362,893 to 4,068 players who fell victim to opponents using AI software in the form of bots or RTA

Calum has been a part of the PokerNews team since September 2021 after working in the UK energy sector. He played his first hand of poker in 2017 and immediately fell in love with the game. Calum's proudest poker achievement is winning the only tournament he has ever played in Las Vegas, the prestigious $60 Flamingo evening event.

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888poker Pays $250K Out of Own Pocket to Players Cheated by Bots and RTA Users - PokerNews.com

COINS are a common part of everyday life for many Americans.

Some rare designs can be worth more than just a few cents.

1

One high-quality coin from 1922 sold for $80,000 at a pawn shop.

The piece of treasure appeared on History Channels Pawn Stars after a poker player won the coin.

He was unaware of its value, originally asking for just $20,000.

The customer entered the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, Nevada, with the coin in a plastic case.

The tamper-proof case showed that it had been graded by the Numismatic Guaranty Company, NGC.

Rick Harrison, the celebrity businessman of Pawn Stars, expressed surprise at the coin.

This is like one of the holy grails of American coins, he said.

The high-quality proof coin is known as a Peace Dollar.

Proof coins are among the first minted of any new design theyre typically made for archival purposes.

Only a handful of copies of the coin were ever found, making them valuable collectors items.

To confirm the quality, Rick called on a friend to evaluate the coins legitimacy.

Dave, a grader from NGC, confirmed the coin was the real thing.

He estimated its value at between $50,000 and $100,000.

After some haggling, Rick bought the coin for $80,000.

While pawn shops and appraisers have long known the value of rare coins, many Americans are just now realizing their pocket change could be worth a small fortune.

Though rare by nature, several rare coins have been found in circulation.

A retail employee recently found a rare penny in their cash register worth over $4,000.

The luminous coin, which lacks the usual picture of Lincoln, was in an ordinary roll of pennies.

Another rare cent could be worth over $30,000.

One historic U.S. coin sold for $3.8 million.

A pro coin grader recently shared how to get started with collecting.

A 300-year-old American coin sold for over $13K thanks in part to its unusual design.

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I won a coin in a poker game and took it to a pawn shop turns out its the holy grail of coins & sold i... - The US Sun

Since the inception of Bitcoin, there has been much speculation as to how different aspects of society will be impacted by this decentralized form of currency. As we approach the halving of Bitcoin, many are wondering how this will affect online poker.

While it is still too early to tell exactly how the halving will impact online poker, there are a few potential scenarios that could play out. One possibility is that the increased scarcity of Bitcoin could lead to more people using it as a form of investment, rather than spending it on everyday items like poker games. This could lead to a decrease in the amount of Bitcoin available for gambling, and consequently, a decrease in the number of people playing online poker.

Another possibility is that the halving could have no significant impact on online poker whatsoever. The reason for this is that online poker is already a very popular activity that does not seem to be slowing down anytime soon. Even if the amount of Bitcoin available for gambling decreases, there are still plenty of other ways to fund an online poker game.

Only time will tell how the halving of Bitcoin will impact online poker. However, regardless of the outcome, it is clear that Bitcoin is here to stay and is likely to have a major impact on the world as we know it.

The Bitcoin halving is the reduction in block rewards from mining. This event happens every 210,000 blocks, or roughly every 4 years. The halving decreases the new supply of Bitcoins coming into circulation, and has an overall positive effect on the price of Bitcoin.

Some believe that the halving could have a positive impact on online poker. With less new Bitcoins coming into circulation, and the demand for Bitcoin remaining static or even increasing, the price of Bitcoin could increase. This would be good for online poker players who use Bitcoin, as the value of their bankrolls would increase.

However, its important to note that the halving could also have a negative impact on online poker. If the price of Bitcoin doesnt increase after the halving, or if it decreases, then online poker players who use Bitcoin will see the value of their bankrolls decrease.

Only time will tell what effect, if any, the halving will have on online poker. But its definitely something to keep an eye on, especially if youre a Bitcoin user.

The Bitcoin halving is set to occur on May 12th, 2020 and it could have a big impact on online poker players who use Bitcoin as their currency. When the halving happens, the block reward for miners will be cut in half from 12.5 BTC to 6.25 BTC. This could lead to a decrease in the supply of new Bitcoin, which could in turn lead to higher prices.

If you're a poker player who uses Bitcoin, you might be wondering how the halving will impact you. Here's what you need to know.

The first thing to keep in mind is that the halving could lead to a shortage of new Bitcoin. If demand remains the same but the supply decreases, prices are likely to go up. This could make it more expensive to buy Bitcoin, which would in turn increase the rake that poker sites charge.

However, it's important to remember that the halving could also lead to an increase in the value of Bitcoin. If more people start buying Bitcoin because they believe that the price is going to go up, then the demand will increase and the price will go up. This could offset the increased rake and actually lead to a decrease in the amount of money that poker sites make.

Ultimately, it's impossible to say for sure how the halving will impact online poker players. It will all depend on how the market reacts to the event. If you're holding Bitcoin, it might be a good idea to hold onto it and see how the market plays out before making any decisions.

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Will the Bitcoin Halving Impact Online Poker? - HighstakesDB

Key Takeaways

The first month of the new year is only half over, but theres already been a healthy supply of igaming storylines.

So far in January, North Carolina entered the final stages of preparing to launch mobile sports betting with seven operators formally applying for licenses.

A draft version of a bill to legalize online casino and poker is starting to take shape in Maryland. Up the coast in Maine, lawmakers are debating whether four tribes in the state should be given a monopoly for online casino and poker the idea is controversial since two commercial casinos were already shut out from mobile sports betting.

In New York, a coalition of four online sportsbooks launched a campaign to win support for expanded igaming. Days later, one of the biggest supporters of expansion introduced a new bill in the state Senate.

And despite a corruption scandal in Indiana involving a former lawmaker, Spectrum Gaming Group released a bullish report on online casino and poker Spectrum said the Hoosier State could make an additional $2 billion in revenue from the first three years of expanded igaming.

But what about the remaining 11 months? Poker Industry PRO thinks the following events both good and bad will happen between now and when the ball drops in NYCs Times Square to usher in 2025.

Please play responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800 GAMBLER.

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PRO Predicts 2024: Ten Online Poker Developments in the US (Part 1) - Pokerfuse

Known by their nickname, The Seagulls, Brighton and Hove Albion FC have been the backbone of English football for a long time.

In their pursuit of success within the Premier League, there lies an intriguing opportunity to extract unforeseen wisdom from an entirely distinct realm the domain of poker in the UK.

Although football and poker may initially appear distant, the fundamental tenets of strategy, mental resilience, and risk management resonate in remarkably parallel ways.

This article embarks on a journey to uncover how Brighton can harness the insights garnered from the world of poker in the UK.

The Strategic Shuffle: Building the Right Hand in Poker UK Within the domain of UK poker, individuals are bestowed with a hand of cards, ushering in the responsibility of judiciously choosing and artfully configuring these cards to create the most formidable amalgamation achievable.

Simultaneously, on the other side of the spectrum, the managerial cadre at Brighton confronts the arduous task of fastidiously sculpting their line-up from the reservoir of eligible players within their purview.

Analogous to the discerning scrutiny that poker aficionados apply to each card, contemplating the myriad possibilities they proffer, the coaching apparatus at Brighton embarks on a parallel evaluation, assessing the suitability of each player for the imminent match.

Introducing the term poker UK into the discussion emphasizes the strategic choices made in both activities. Whether it is selecting cards or players, the essence remains: making the best decisions to secure victory.

Bluffing and Mind Games: Psychology in Poker UK and Football Psychological strategies have a substantial influence in both the world of UK poker and football. Footballers employ tactics such as feints, deceptive plays, and intricate mind games to outmaneuver their adversaries, mirroring how poker players deftly use bluffing techniques to confound their fellow competitors. The mental aspect of the game is a pivotal component in the pursuit of victory in both areas.

Adaptation and In-Game Adjustments: A Dynamic Landscape

Both football matches and poker games in the UK are characterized by their dynamic and ever-evolving nature. Coaches and poker players must be ready to adjust their strategies flexibly in response to the shifting circumstances.

In football, this adaptability may manifest in making crucial substitutions or tactical alterations to capitalize on the opponents vulnerabilities.

Conversely, in the UK poker context, players skilfully adapt their gameplay by astutely evaluating the dynamic nature of the table. This capacity to adapt is a common thread binding these two domains.

Risk Management: Calculated Choices in Poker UK and Football Both football and poker UK require effective risk management. Football managers take calculated risks by fielding certain players or making tactical decisions, while poker UK players weigh the risks and rewards of each hand. The ability to make informed choices while considering potential outcomes is a common thread.

Poker UK emphasizes the financial risk involved in poker. Professional poker players often wager real money, making it crucial to manage risk effectively.

Brightons management can draw from this parallel by adopting a more calculated approach to risk management in their decision-making, minimizing potential downsides and maximizing the chances of success.

Data Analysis: Finding the Winning Formula Risk management is a fundamental aspect of football and poker in the UK. In football, managers strategically assess risks, whether in the selection of specific players or in making tactical decisions.

Similarly, poker players in the UK carefully evaluate the potential risks and rewards associated with each hand they play.

The commonality lies in the capacity to make informed choices while thoughtfully weighing the possible outcomes, bridging the two seemingly disparate realms.

Patience and Discipline: Playing the Long Game In the realms of both football and poker in the UK, the virtues of patience and discipline reign supreme. Football managers embark on nurturing their teams skills and refining their strategies, recognizing that mastery unfolds over time.

Similarly, professional poker UK players understand that triumph may only materialize in a small hand or tournament. The capacity to remain dedicated to long-term objectives and uphold discipline is a common characteristic in both domains.

As a final point, the insights that Brighton can glean from poker in the UK are both surprising and invaluable. Exploring the intersections between these ostensibly disparate domains, such as strategy, mental resilience, adaptability, risk management, data analysis, and discipline, uncovers a profound connection that can significantly enhance the football clubs prospects for success.

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From poker chips to championship goals: Lessons Brighton can learn from the world of poker - We Are Brighton

FIFA fans know a thing or two about dedication - and it's not just when they're at the matches that their love of their sport shines bright. Followers of this legendary game can be seen everywhere, tapping into the game even when there are no matches on, by tuning into the plethora of soccer-related games available online!

Given how popular soccer is, its no surprise that there are tons of soccer-themed online pokies games available - and a huge fan base of enthusiasts bent on playing them.

There are plenty of awesome soccer slot games available at online casinos - enough to keep even the most passionate soccer supporter well and truly entertained for hours! Online pokies are an enormously popular option, and for good reason.

Some of these slots have stayed true to classic gaming style, but many others have spiced things up by offering interesting theming and great extras, such as bonus rounds and wild substitutions - enough to make any sports fan enthusiastic! This kind of online gaming is great fun and lets soccer enthusiasts unleash their inner player without ever having to set foot on a pitch.

Playing themed pokies (aka fruit machines or slot machines) is a really great way of having fun and spending time with friends, while still doing something related to your favourite sport. It's even more convenient now since technological developments allow you to play on any device, anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection and the right app installed. So, no matter whether youre relaxing at home or undertaking a long journey, grab your phone, download the app, and let the gaming action begin by playing soccer-themed pokies online and living out your dreams of being part of the soccer world!

Online pokies are an excellent choice for all the FIFA fans out there. There are plenty of options that combine the thrill of soccer with the fun offered by slot machines. Soccer-themed online pokies are firm favourites of many of those who love to play FIFA: these games enable players to show off their passion for their sport while being easy to play and requiring minimal skill or tactics. Its a low-pressure experience because its all down to luck - how cool is that? It can give you a nice break from playing FIFA, too, which even die-hard fans may welcome.

All-in-all, soccer-themed online pokies offer something truly unique by uniting two popular interests, allowing gamers to enjoy the best of both worlds - the challenge of playing FIFA, and the more relaxed (but still gripping) fun of spinning the reels and aiming for the big wins. With great graphics immersing you within a realistic virtual soccer environment, plus some cool characters and fun takes on the sport, online soccer-themed pokies have won enthusiasm from soccer fans everywhere.

Playing soccer poker also allows FIFA fans to enjoy a flutter, while still keeping up their favorite theme. There are a surprising number of similarities between soccer and poker, and playing soccer-themed poker offers you the best of both worlds. Poker has been compared to watching a live football match in terms of enjoyment and thrill, so you can imagine how much better soccer poker is likely to be! Play with other enthusiasts like yourself, and then move on to soccer-themed pokies when your brain needs a break.

The rules of soccer poker may be different from website to website, but generally, when you're playing for real money, you need to pick three teams out of various leagues or divisions that you think will win their games. Make sure youve thoroughly understood what you need to do before you start, to give yourself the best possible chances of a successful game, and perhaps even a win to be proud of!

To conclude, FIFA fans who want a break from their favourite game but want to stick with the soccer theme have tons of options available. Soccer-themed online pokies make a wonderful, relaxing option, while soccer-themed poker gives you a chance to test your tactics and engage in some friendly competition - a great way for you to show off your skills and play against other people!

Whether you're an avid soccer fan or just looking for something new, playing online pokies with a football theme or checking out some soccer-themed poker lets you continue the soccer enjoyment without having to leave your house; you can even stick a match on in the background while you play, and cheer for your favourite players at the same time as watching the reels turn or the cards hit the table.

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Know why FIFA fans enjoy soccer-themed online poker and pokies - SportsAdda

Top five online poker sites for UK players

When it comes to online poker sites available in the UK, its hard to separate the best from the rest. So, our poker experts put together a list of the best poker sites for real money UK players available to access today. Each operator has met our strict review criteria to provide a complete online poker experience:

PokerStars is one of the best poker sites, thanks to its poker-first commitment to the game. Withplenty of cash games, sit & gos and live dealer poker, there is something to suit everyone. Where PokerStars stands out is its tournaments, including the Sunday Million weekly comp.

They regularly run 16 tournaments, including Play Money tourneys, such as Play Money Majors. These come withhuge guarantees and massive cash prizes, where you can compete with players from around the world. PokerStars is alsohome to the World Championship of Online Poker (WCOOP), which is held every September.

Daily tournaments include Bounty Builders and Hot Turbos. Popular formats on PokerStars include Bubble Rush and Knockout Poker. This level of choice allows the platform to be flexible, with buy-ins to suit all budgets. New PokerStars players can claim a100 per cent match on their first deposit up to 200. You must deposit at least 20 and use the casino bonus code FIRST200.

Established 2001

#ad. 18+. Gamble Responsibly. Begambleaware.org. New casino players only. Min. deposit 20 with code FIRST200. Debit card (Visa or Mastercard) only. Selected Slots only, 7 day expiry. Wagering requirements apply, 5 redemption points per 1 to clear bonus. Game contributions vary. Maximum bet 5 per round. Terms apply.

Virgin Games consistently ranks as one of the best online poker sites, especially for players who love tournaments.One of the few UK casino sites with a dedicated poker room, Virgin Games has tournaments featuring No Limit Texas Holdem with four-player groups. These are ideal for beginners or budget players.Competition buy-ins are as low as 1.

Some of the tournaments have a unique benefit in the form of Mystery Payouts. These can be found in Wild Seat Poker games and will only pay out to the overall winner. This high-stakes, winner-takes-all approach is unique in online poker. Even so, the winning potential is big because someMystery Payouts offer a multiplier of 10,000x for a 1 buy-in, with 100,000 up for grabs.

Established 2004

#ad. 18+. Gamble Responsibly. Begambleaware.org. New members only, must opt in. Min 10 deposit & wager. 30 day expiry from deposit. Extra Spins: on Double Bubble. 1p coin size, max lines. Bingo: Advertised ticket value based on 1 tickets. Game availability & restrictions apply. Current Jackpots are across selected games.

Bonus hunters will appreciate the rewards on offer at Grosvenor, with a focus on promos for poker players. As one of the best UK poker sites, Grosvenor ranks amongst the country's most prominent land-based poker brands. Online, the operator runs on Playtechs popular iPoker network, offeringcash games and sit & gos to suit all budgets.

Freeroll tournaments run every Tuesday, with a poker ticket up for grabs from a coin flip. Players who win the ticket play in a 500 tournament without needing to dip into their own bankroll. Monthly promos also engage players, such as theCash Rake Race, with 100 players winning a share of the prize pot.

Daily tournaments and live-streaming poker helps to keep players engaged, as does the Loyalty Club, which offersup to 40 per cent Rakeback cash. A Road to Rewards promo allows players to unlock rewards as they play, such as deposit matches and free games.

Established 2007

#ad. 18+. Gamble Responsibly. Begambleaware.org. New customers only. min deposit 20. Max non-withdrawable bonus 30. Playable selected games only. 30x wagering required. Expires within 30 days. Max win 2000. T&Cs apply

While all the best UK poker sites we list are beginner-friendly,The Vic Casino ranks as the most focused on giving new players a leg up. There is no dedicated online poker room, although the land-based Vic Casino does have a poker room. Instead,the website has video poker and live dealer options as part of its UK live casino. These games serve as a good introduction to online poker for beginners.

Options include Live Texas Holdem Bonus, Live Three Card Poker and Live Caribbean Stud. You can see a human dealer handle the cards and chips during gameplay. Players can interact with each other and the dealer through the chat feature.

One of the big offers at The Vic Casino is aweekly cashback bonus that provides up to 100 back on your losses. There are also daily deposit promos to help boost your free credits when you deposit funds.

Established 2021

#ad. 18+. Gamble Responsibly. Begambleaware.org. Welcome bonus package on first 3 deposits 1st Dep. Min 20. 50x wagering (bonus & deposit). max bonus to cash 5x. 20 Extra spins. 35x wagering. Max bonus to cash 30. Claim once. See full T&Cs for 2nd & 3rd Deposit offers. Full T&C's apply.

For players who prefer a mobile casino, want to have their poker action on the move and have easy access to high-quality games, LeoVegas is one of the best poker sites. There are no poker rooms or tournaments, but you get a broad selection of video and live dealer poker games. LeoVegas hasa huge game catalogue and works with major providers such as Evolution Gaming for its live poker options.

Thousands of top slots, casino table games, and live dealer games are available on the world-class LeoVegas mobile app. Dont take our word for it; the brandwon Mobile Operator of the Year 2023 at the EGR Operator Awards.

A weekend live casino promotion allows players to boost their bankroll for live poker games, while there are14 live poker tables, including new releases such as Evolutions Video Poker Live.

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We put a lot of work into finding the best poker sites. We aim to select only the best brands for our readers, sowe use a comprehensive review method. Each site we rate is put through a multi-step test that looks at the following essential factors:

All of the best online poker sites we recommend have promotions.Bonuses give players the opportunity to boost their bankroll or get other benefits. Casinos use these offers to attract new players or freshen up the experience for existing customers. In terms of the best poker sites, UK players can expect to see the following typical promos:

Established 2023

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While the game rules will be the same whether you play, for example, Texas Holdem online or at a land-based casino,there are notable differences in the gameplay experience to playing online or in person.

While there is a distinct experience between online and land-based poker,online casinos are increasingly blurring the lines. Most brands now have live dealer sections where poker games run through a live stream from a remote location. This brings some authenticity as you can see the dealer interact with other players and watch the physical game in real-time.

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Free poker comes in two types of game formats. Some video poker games are free in demo mode, although you cannot win real money playing this way. Then there are freeroll poker tournaments, allowing players to compete for bonus chips without needing to dip into their bankroll. Many of the best poker sites offer freeroll options for players.

Looking specifically at freeroll vs real money poker, there are some considerations when deciding which is best:

As well as highlighting thebest online poker sites UK players can access,our team also finds the hottest new poker brands. You never need to wait long for a new casino to launch with a poker offering. We are always on the lookout for the top new casino sites, which you can see right here on this page.

Our team selectsthe sites that meet our strict rating criteria, including the following operators:

Established 2023

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Poker isa diverse game that comes in several variants. Each version is based on the same broad principles - many of which feature in this poker guide - but offers something unique and fresh. The best poker sites will offer a selection of different game types, including these classics:

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When playing on the best poker sites, youcompete against other players for cash prizes. While poker is ultimately a game of luck,some variants require betting skill. That is why players turn to software solutions to help enhance their gameplay.

Paying rake at a poker table happens in land-based venues and even on the best poker sites. UK brands use a rake,a fee players pay to the poker room, but it is automatically deducted from the prize pool. While the rake may seem annoying, it is essential becauseit is how the poker room makes money and remains available. However, you must calculate beating your opponent and winning enough money to cover the rake when playing poker. Again, this is not much of a problem in online poker because the rake is automatic.

Established 2022

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If you want to play real-money poker games and tournaments online,youll need to deposit money. In fact, you will even need to fund your casino account to play freerolls. Once you profit, you can withdraw your money to your chosen financial service. The best poker sites offer a flexible range of payment services, including:

On this page, you can see the best poker sites the UK offers. These brands excel in game selection, traffic, bonuses, tournaments, buy-in flexibility, and prize pools. Read our full reviews to decide which poker casino is best for you. Remember to bookmark this page, as we frequently update it with the latest top-notch poker sites.

Established 2012

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Gambling can be addictive and can quickly become compulsive if great care is not taken. As such, the best poker sites should promote these responsible gambling tools to help users stay in control:

All poker sites regulated by the UK Gambling Commission must give users the option to self-exclude.

The self exclusion tool should be utilised the moment a customer realises their gambling has become problematic. Should you wish to seek help for gambling-related harm, there are several UK charities and institutions you can turn to for support, advice and information:

We recommend PokerStars, Virgin Games, Grosvenor Casino, The Vic and LeoVegas as our top poker sites for UK players. Each brings something unique while they each offer an all-around experience of excellent games, top prizes, lucrative bonuses and usability.

Yes, absolutely, playing online poker is safe. However, there are things you can do to guarantee a safe experience. For example, select a poker site that is fully licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, can prove its games are fair and has security features to protect players. Each of the best poker sites we highlight meets all of these criteria.

LeoVegas is currently our top pick for mobile poker experience. The brand has a mobile-friendly interface that makes playing poker on the move easy. You can access all games including live dealer options from iOS and Android, and also claim bonuses, deposit/withdraw, and speak to customer support from your smartphone or tablet.

Which poker game you play depends on your taste and gameplay style. Perhaps you like the drama and bluffing of Texas Holdem or playing against the dealer in Caribbean Stud. Maybe you enjoy the tension of not knowing which card is coming next or prefer to hold all your cards like in Seven Card Stud.

Gambling expert Wouter Schuurbiers is a former Belgian Omaha Poker Championship winner with an extensive background in the iGaming industry. He has spent almost 10 years working across Customer Support, Social Media and SEO for various online betting and casino companies.

Read more from the original source:

The Best Poker Sites for Real Money in {{ - The Independent