Unibet Poker Exits Europe: Players Moved to BoaBet

Unibet Poker has announced its exit from most European markets. The company will now operate in only 11 countries. This decision follows the FDJ acquisition of Kindred Group, leading to a major shift in strategy. Unibet plans to focus on regulated markets.

FDJ recently bought Kindred Group for €2.5 billion. This deal has changed Unibet's focus. FDJ prefers to operate only in regulated regions. 

As a result, Unibet will continue operations in Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Ireland, Malta, the Netherlands, Romania, Sweden, and the UK. These countries meet FDJ's compliance criteria. Because of this, Unibet has decided to leave other markets.

This decision affects many players across Europe. Unibet used to offer online poker in more than 100 countries. Now, it is reducing its presence. FDJ wants to avoid operating in regions with local regulations. This change aims to align Unibet with FDJ's strict policies.

Unibet players from the withdrawn regions will be moved to BoaBet. BoaBet will still be part of the Unibet poker network, but its future is uncertain. 

Players will see their funds, bonuses, and tickets moved to BoaBet. BoaBet will only be available through a browser. There are no mobile or desktop apps. This may limit access for some players.

BoaBet will not have apps for mobile or desktop use. This means players must adjust to browser-only play. This switch could be a challenge for those who prefer the Unibet app.

BoaBet is still part of the Unibet poker network, but we don't know for how long. According to Stubbe Buchwald, Unibet's senior poker manager, the platform's future is undecided. Players in the affected areas may need to prepare for further changes.

As part of these changes, Unibet will also remove heads-up sit-and-go games. This format was losing popularity and was affected the most by market exits. Buchwald said it no longer benefits the broader poker ecosystem. 

These games will be discontinued as Unibet focuses on its remaining markets. Unibet expects some impact on gameplay. Fewer players will mean a drop in traffic for certain games and stakes. 

However, Buchwald pointed to a positive outcome. Since many of the top players used to play in the exiting regions, the games may become less competitive. This means more casual games for players who stay.

Unibet's decision is part of a larger trend. Online gaming companies are facing more regulatory pressure. To stay compliant, many are choosing to leave grey markets. FDJ's buyout of Kindred has led to a reassessment of where Unibet operates. 

By limiting its markets, Unibet ensures it aligns with local laws. While some players face difficulties moving to BoaBet, it is not the end. Unibet plans to expand its product offerings to new regulated markets.

The company is evolving, refining its services, and working towards a compliant presence. These changes show Unibet's commitment to a stable and regulated gaming environment. Unibet is not giving up. Instead, it is finding new ways to move forward. BoaBet may be the first step in this evolution.