How Virtual Reality can Reinvigorate Online Poker

Online poker was a huge hit a few years ago. No wonder companies like PokerStars have grown into such gaming powerhouses. Millions of people were attracted by the newly found fame of poker, turning it into the one most popular card game of the world. But in the years that have passed ever since online poker has become dull, losing its spark, its heart - a major part of the excitement.

This puts some of the decisions poker operators made in the last few years into a different perspective.

Unibet, one of the largest online casino operators in Norther Europe, has dropped MPN, choosing to build its own poker network. It was one focusing on recreational players, with amazing graphics, funny avatars and a public achievements system so players could compete against each other. And it was a huge success with Unibet's players, attracting new ones and making existing ones happy. Through these changed Unibet has shifted its poker room's focus from pros to everyday players, offering them a unique experience instead.

After being purchased by Amaya, PokerStars has introduced casino games into its poker room. It now offers bonuses similar to the ones you can find at www.betstopper.ca/online-casino-bonuses, and even live dealer games. At first I saw this as a bad thing, dragging poker down to the level of games of chance. But now it seems more like a measure meant to add an extra layer of entertainment on top of its non stop poker action.

Will this be enough? Well, only time will tell. But there is a new technology on the rise that can really add some extra edge to online poker. Perhaps it will be the one that will finally reinvigorate the business, providing players with a never before seen experience. And this new technology is virtual reality.

 

Imagine playing poker in an elegant salon inspired by one of England's distinguished, elegant private clubs. The flames are cracking in the fireplace, the lights are playing on the wall - and virtual players with elegantly dressed avatars sit around an old style, carved table playing an exciting game. In virtual reality, you will be able to play poker in any setting you can imagine, from a tropical paradise to the surface of the Moon. How exciting this would be?

Besides, VR can offer operators new ways of promoting their services. Imagine a jungle room with a jungle themed deck, and a jungle-related promotion running. Basically, they could think of any theme, and add relevant promotions to the respective tables. But even beyond promotions - you could invite your virtual friends to your own, customized virtual poker room, and host private games in there in a setting tailored to your own taste.

Virtual reality has some very exciting new possibilities poker operators can explore. Hopefully they will be quick in adopting them.