Online poker fans have been patiently waiting for something new to launch in Pennsylvania. So far, the state has offered iPoker via one brand, PokerStars. And while PokerStars is an amazing brand, players want a little variety. It was expected that partypoker would launch soon as Roar Digital was able to receive licensing by the state’s Gaming Control Board. This week, BetMGM quietly started its testing phase but only for online casino gaming, with poker left up in the air for now.
Soft Launch
The soft launch began on Tuesday and continues through Thursday. Players can see the details at the top of the stie, with limited hours each day. For today, the beta testing hours run from 10am through 8pm. On the final test day, the hours of operation will be 10am through 10pm.
As long as everything runs smoothly, players will have 24/7 access to online casino games on December 4. Players can access a full selection of games including table games, slots, jackpot games and much more.
But what about poker? Why not launch online poker games alongside the casino?
Waiting for Now
It seems BetMGM is waiting for now to get in on the online poker gaming action. It was just five weeks ago that BetMGM was approved by the Board for licensing. The Interactive Gaming Operator License allows the company to offer both online casino and poker gaming in the state.
It is surprising to find that the brand launched the testing phase of the online casino and did not include poker. However, it is more difficult to vet an online poker platform than an online casino one, so it makes sense to go with one over the other in the beginning.
It now appears that online poker might not come to fruition in the Keystone State until 2021. BetMGM is expected to launch online poker gaming in the state along with a partypoker PA site. This will put the partypoker US Network in the state and allow for even more high quality iPoker gaming.
The partypoker US Network is strong in New Jersey and should see just as much success in Pennsylvania. Players will have access to cash gaming options as well as tournament play and special events. Party often teams up with major brands to provide quality online tournament action and has done so repeatedly in the Garden State.
It is also expected that Pennsylvania will soon welcome 888 into the poker community. The brand has wanted to get started in the state for quite some time and was just recently approved by regulators for an Interactive Gaming Manufacturer license.
Even though the brand has been approved, it is unclear as to when a brand 888poker site will enter Pennsylvania along with a WSOP site. Both brands operate together in the US. With the major poker providers getting ready to go live in Pennsylvania, at least in the near future, the online poker market is expected to explode.
Players recognize WSOP, 888 and party and will want to get started enjoying all of the quality gaming options they have to offer.
