A poker pro looking for tables with weak players could be blocked under a new waiting program being introduced by PokerStars.
The system, called “Seat Me,” puts players into a universal waiting list for all tables at a specified stakes, similar to live poker rooms where players are steered to the first open seat. The system will be tested on PokerStars Spanish site.
The system eliminates PokerStars ring game lobby. Under the lobby system, pro players could seek out waiting lists for specific tables with weaker players. The practice is called “bumhunting” and often involves using computer programs that analyze played hands to identify weak players.
“With so many customers who trust our products, we have to be particularly vigilant against tools or strategies used to gain an unfair advantage,” said PokerStars Director of Poker Innovation and Operations Severin Rasset in a blog post. “We also need to be able to ensure that we create enforceable and sustainable policies, making sure that players who do follow the rules are not at a disadvantage.”
If testing goes well, the feature is expected to be rolled out at all PokerStars sites, the company said.
In another matter, PokerStars has been granted a Czech gaming license. The license if the first issued under new regulations in the Czech Republic.
“We are very proud to be the first online casino and poker operator to be awarded a license and support the newly regulated Czech market,” said Guy Templer, PokerStars Chief Operating Officer, in a press release. “This underscores our commitment to supporting local regulations and obtaining local licenses wherever possible.”
PokerStars said it will offer Czech players games “across its shared global liquidity” meaning Czech players should be able to compete in international games.
New gaming regulations went into effect in the Czech Republic last month and online gambling operators are now required to hold a Czech gaming license. Operators must pay a tax of 35 percent of gross gaming revenue from any game that uses a random number generator—which online poker does.
