Inside GGPoker’s Changes: Fresh Rules and Exclusive Tables

GGPoker recently revamped its high-stakes VIP games, sparking big debates. The changes include private tables, mandatory VPIP, and a "Squid Game" penalty system. These moves have stirred mixed reactions. Let's explore the updates and why players are talking.

GGPoker made its VIP games exclusive, transforming the high-stakes scene. Public high-stakes tables are gone, and the "VIP Games" section has become an "Exclusive" tab.

To join, players need an invitation. Selected hosts control access, much like in private poker apps. Hosts manage deposits and withdrawals, making connections crucial for entry. It's now about being part of an exclusive club.

Only certain players can see these tables, and hosts decide who joins. Some players like the controlled environment, while others see it as gatekeeping.

The mandatory VPIP (Voluntarily Put in Pot) rule is one major change. VPIP measures how often players contribute to the pot. At GGPoker, players must now contribute at least 35% of the time in Hold’em, 40% in Omaha, and 45% in Short Deck games.

The goal is to keep players active and avoid passive play. GGPoker aims to make games more engaging, especially for casual players. VPIP rules are not new; they are common in agent-run poker apps. GGPoker hopes these rules will make their tables more appealing and dynamic.

GGPoker also introduced a penalty-based game. They call it “Squid Game.” In this game, players who do not win a pot must pay a penalty. This penalty is distributed among the other players at the table. 

Once a player wins, they’re safe. The game continues until only one player hasn’t won a pot. That final player pays a bigger penalty—three times the big blind. This setup adds more action and pressure. 

Players must fight to avoid penalties. It’s fast-paced and keeps everyone on edge. Many compare it to high-energy home games. Some find it thrilling, while others find it stressful. The goal is to encourage aggressive play.

These changes upset many players. High-stakes pros like Joey Ingram and Dirk Gerritse have spoken out. Ingram questioned why GGPoker would remove public games. He pointed out the interest of players in open competition. Gerritse also voiced frustration. He feels excluded from opportunities he once had.

GGPoker has responded to these concerns. They say high-stakes players want more control. They also opened $10/$20 tables to everyone, hoping these tables will grow. They aim to create environments players ask for. They want to adapt based on feedback.

They hope this approach will keep players happy. GGPoker believes in evolving with player needs. They want to keep adding features that suit their community. The $10/$20 tables attempt to find balance—some games exclusive, others open to all.

GGPoker's new approach is bold. Invite-only tables, mandatory VPIP, and penalties are major changes. Some players enjoy the thrill, while others feel excluded. The community is divided.

Will GGPoker's gamble succeed or alienate players? Time will tell. GGPoker caters to a specific group, betting that this exclusive strategy will pay off.