Online Poker Thrives in 2020 Despite COVID-19 Challenges

Online poker continues to thrive in 2020, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Flutter Entertainment, which owns Paddy Power, Betfair, and PokerStars, reported a 35% year-on-year increase in online gambling for the first half of 2020. This surge in traffic is attributed to the closure of other forms of entertainment, such as bars, restaurants, and concerts, which drove many sports bettors to try their hand at online poker and casino gaming.

PokerStars has made changes to its rewards program, allowing players to refuse moving to a bigger chest if they think it will take too long to unlock. Additionally, players no longer have to wait until 50% progress is made and be within 10 days of the expiry date before cashing their points. This change aims to provide more flexibility and benefits for recreational players.

partypoker has upgraded their mobile app to function in portrait mode for MTTs, making it easier for players to participate with just one hand. This update is designed to cater to the modern, fast-paced lifestyle where multitasking is common. The app also introduces a new in-game currency called Diamonds, which can be used to purchase throwables and rabbit hunt. The partypoker US Network will host the WPT Online Borgata Series in New Jersey, with the main event priced at $1,060. This event aims to maintain the customer base in the US market while the fight for full legalization continues.