PKR

The Sims meets PokerStars; PKR is worth a visit purely to see the sheer innovation. It’s a really good idea and they’ve pulled it off brilliantly – it’s a realistic playing environment and it attracts fish who will now treat poker more like a silly card game than ever. Expect the V$PIPs of all donks to go up as they play every pot trying to earn enough points to get a new cap for their character.

Overview

The Sims meets PokerStars; PKR is worth a visit purely to see the sheer innovation. It’s a really good idea and they’ve pulled it off brilliantly – it’s a realistic playing environment and it attracts fish who will now treat poker more like a silly card game than ever. Expect the V$PIPs of all donks to go up as they play every pot trying to earn enough points to get a new cap for their character.

Conclusion: In theory, the concept is sweet. In actuality… it’s still pretty sweet. Combining online and live poker like never before, PKR really is a genius website. Heavy ad campaigns across Europe have seen players flock there.

Software

Well, there’s no point comparing it to any other site is there? PKR’s software is totally unique and it’s done very well. It’s smooth, the graphics rock and the lobby layout is easy-to-use. Multi-tabling on an older PC might be a bit of a chore but there are graphics settings you can customise to your machine’s performance. Also it’s good to be able to riffle chips online; all the cool people do it.

Conclusion: It’s been around for a while now but when it first came out it had to be seen to be believed. Dumps on the avatars at PokerRoom from a great height.

Traffic

Huge, to the extent that it’s sometimes hard to get a game because every table is packed. If you’re a UK resident I doubt you’ve gone a day recently without seeing a TV or magazine advert for PKR. This heavy advertising, playing up the ‘cool’ side of poker and the fun element of the graphics means there’s a wave of fish. Sit back; watch them make their avatar laugh and dance and giggle; profit.

Conclusion: Be prepared to sit on waiting lists, but it’s worth it when you get sat down.

Donks or Not?

Many, but good players are catching on and signing up so watch out. You shouldn’t have too much trouble given that the average player is only playing for the fun of building a character and not the money.

Conclusion: A huge amount of spewy players is seriously +EV but watch out for others like you who have cottoned on. There be sharks in the water…