BetRivers Poker iGaming Debut in Pennsylvania

As of today, BetRivers has officially entered the online poker arena in Pennsylvania, allowing its customers to engage in real-money player-versus-player poker. This launch marks the culmination of a strategic initiative that began in 2022, when Rush Street Interactive (RSI), the parent company of BetRivers, acquired the Phil Galfond-designed platform, Run It Once Poker. The introduction of BetRivers Poker not only enhances the competitive landscape of online poker in the U.S. but also reflects a growing trend of state-regulated online gaming.

The anticipation surrounding BetRivers Poker's launch had been palpable, with the timeline remaining uncertain until the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) confirmed earlier this month that the platform had met all regulatory requirements. This approval underscores the increasing acceptance and regulation of online gambling in the U.S., a landscape that has evolved significantly since the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018.

Phil Galfond, an esteemed figure in the poker world, has played a pivotal role in shaping the BetRivers Poker experience. In a recent press release, he emphasized that the platform was designed with all players in mind—ranging from novices to seasoned pros. Galfond’s involvement in game design, promotions, and policy decisions indicates a commitment to creating a fair and exciting environment for online poker.

Feature	Details
Launch Date	November 1, 2023
Ownership	Rush Street Interactive
Platform Design	Created by Phil Galfond
Game Formats	– Cash Games – Multi-Table Tournaments – Sit & Go Select (Classic & Cub3d)
Rake Structure	– Sit & Go: 4% to 6.7% – Cash Games: 4.75% nominal, cap varies
Unique Offerings	Low rake on smaller stakes, randomized payouts in Cub3d tournaments
Loyalty Program	Integrated with iRush Rewards

 

 

A Feature-Rich Platform

BetRivers Poker launches with a robust suite of features that position it as a formidable player in the online poker market. The site includes traditional cash games and large multi-table tournaments, but it also introduces innovative formats such as the Sit & Go Select tournaments. This format offers two variations: the Classic SNG, a rapid three-handed tournament, and the Cub3d, which features randomized payouts that can reach up to 1,500 times the buy-in.

The introduction of these fast-paced games aligns with a broader trend in the online poker industry, where speed and excitement are key to attracting players. Notably, the Cub3d format has gained popularity in international markets, and its arrival in the U.S. through BetRivers, following similar offerings from PokerStars and DraftKings, highlights the increasing demand for dynamic tournament structures.

One of BetRivers' key selling points is its low rake, claimed to be among the most favorable in Pennsylvania. For Sit & Go Select tournaments, the rake ranges from 4% to 6.7%, which undercuts the 7% rake found on PokerStars' Spin & Go tournaments. For cash games, the nominal rake stands at 4.75%, with effective rates depending on the stakes and style of play. BetRivers’ strategy of offering lower rake at smaller stakes could attract recreational players, enhancing the overall player ecosystem by potentially providing softer games.

This focus on low rake reflects a significant shift in online poker strategy, as it contrasts with many sites that typically impose higher fees on lower-stakes games. By keeping rake low, BetRivers aims to foster a welcoming environment for newcomers and casual players, which could lead to increased engagement and retention.

 

Future Prospects

Despite its many features, some aspects of the original Run It Once Poker model have not made the transition to BetRivers Poker. Notably absent is the Splash the Pot rewards system, designed to randomly enhance certain pots by redistributing a portion of collected rake. This innovative approach was intended to encourage looser and more engaging gameplay but appears incompatible with BetRivers’ current low rake strategy and its integration with the iRush Rewards loyalty program.

The omission of Splash the Pot may be disappointing to some players, but it leaves the door open for potential future promotions or adaptations. As the online poker landscape continues to evolve, BetRivers Poker may revisit these innovative ideas to further differentiate itself from competitors.

 

From the amateur playing their very first hand to the sophisticated pro, everyone was kept in mind as we focused on fairness, excitement, and generous rewards that truly benefit the player.

 

Conclusion

With its official launch in Pennsylvania, BetRivers Poker not only adds a new player to the online poker market but also brings a fresh perspective on player engagement through innovative game formats and competitive pricing strategies. As it seeks to carve out its niche among established competitors, the platform’s focus on accessibility and player experience will be critical in attracting a diverse range of players. The online poker community will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how BetRivers adapts and evolves in this fast-paced environment.