Poker is a highly popular card game that originated in North America. Today, there are multiple variations of the game played all over the world.
A game of Poker can have anywhere between 2 to 14 players but 6 to 8 players is considered ideal. The rules of the game are simple but may vary depending on the many forms of the game.
The advent of online casinos and gaming platforms has added to the popularity of poker like never before. According to ZionMarketResearch.com, the online market size of poker is estimated to grow to 237.5 billion USD by 2030.
There are several reasons for the ever-increasing popularity of online poker. To begin with, the convenience and accessibility offered by online platforms has revolutionised the way people play.
People can now play anytime on their devices from the comfort of their homes or while on the go. Also, online platforms are offering a wide range of games to choose from.
However, the biggest reason behind the epic rise of online poker has been the inclusion of technology. Advanced technology is redefining the dynamics of online poker.
Technologies Transforming Online Poker
Advanced technology has added immensely to the experience of online poker in more ways than one. Here’s a look at the different technologies that have made an impact in the world of online poker.
1] Artificial Intelligence (AI)
One of the most path-breaking technologies to impact the world of online poker has been artificial intelligence. AI has introduced various features to the game that were not imaginable even a decade earlier.
Players can now go back and look at previous games for detailed analysis, thanks to AI. This is helping players to build strategies and come up with tactics like never before.
Also, AI is making predictions and providing players a chance to look at the most probable cards. This helps one gain a thorough understanding of how the game would proceed and how to gain an edge.
AI has made it impossible for players to cheat and ensures a completely fair game. It immediately detects any kind of malpractice or use of illegal software.
Players can now solely focus on the game, which enhances the gaming experience.
2] Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
VR and AR technologies have together made poker a highly immersive experience for the players. Thanks to these technologies, the players now feel like they are present in the real environment of a poker table.
The use of advanced graphics adds to this experience. The fans are able to live the experience of watching a real poker game through an online platform.
Now, players from across the world can experience sitting on a common poker table while playing. It has truly merged the real and virtual world seamlessly.
3] Blockchain
As online poker witnessed growing popularity, a major cause of concern had been the risk associated with online payment methods.
Initially, this led to apprehension in the minds of many players.
However, the introduction of Blockchain technology has taken care of this concern. Blockchain is the technology that supports cryptocurrency like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
The nature of blockchain makes it completely safe from frauds. This has drawn many people towards online poker platforms.
4] Mobile Apps for Poker
While online poker was a revolution in itself, mobile apps have taken it many steps further. Today one doesn’t even need to be at home to play their favourite game of poker.
Mobile gaming apps have made it possible to play poker on the go. This sense of freedom is encouraging many to try their hand at the game, further adding to its popularity.
5] Live Streaming
The big thing in the world of online poker right now is live streaming. Twitch is a popular live streaming platform that launched in 2011.
YouTube is another platform used for live streaming of poker games and tournaments. Live streaming and video poker is a different experience altogether compared to playing poker in real life.
What makes live streaming so popular is that it allows players to showcase the game in real time to millions of people worldwide.
This has resulted in the emergence of a poker community of players, fans and enthusiasts.
People in the community discuss strategies and tricks and interact with one another. Fans can also interact with their favourite players in real time.
Thus, live streaming encourages new talent and also leads to the emergence of new strategies. Poker players can earn revenue on the streaming platforms through subscriptions, donations and ad revenue.
In addition to being aware of the tips and tricks of the game of poker, players today have technology for an enhanced gaming experience.
Conclusion
Poker has come a long way and evolved to meet the preferences of players over the centuries. As technology continues to evolve, the future of online poker has a lot in store for enthusiasts of the game.
