The Incredible Rise of PKR Poker
Those of you who have been playing poker for a while will remember that October 2006 was a dark time for the online gambling community as the Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIEGA) swept through the US, banning players from wagering at their favorite poker rooms with immediate effect.
It was a bill that angered many and had a huge impact on some of the world's largest gaming companies who saw their share price collapse overnight and were forced to lay off large parts of their work force. Over four years later and the battle is still being fought to over-turn the decision and restore online gambling to the United States.
In the face of all this adversity though, one online poker room has gone from strength to strength. While the likes of Party Gaming were seeing their share price drop my almost 80%, PKR were registering their one millionth player just 12 months after launching.
Today, they're officially the quickest growing poker room in Europe and run some of the largest poker tournaments currently online. So how has PKR managed to sidestep the problems that caused the downfall of much more established brands?
There are a few reasons but the most obvious one is the stunning software that gives the room it's one totally unique selling point. The game is played through a free download that offers users stunning 3D graphics. Gaming environments are re-created lovingly using textured polygons that wouldn't be out of place on an X-Box 360 or PlayStation 3.
Equally, players can create their own personas or 'avatars' which can be kitted out from a large wardrobe. Accessories like iPods can also be added to the characters who actually react to the action on the poker table.
All in all, the software draws players in and offers them an experience that just can't be found at any other online poker room - and that's four years after the room was initially launched.
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