The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City has announced the return of one of its staple events this fall.
The Borgata Open Poker Series is set to attract top players from across the country – and should bring a renewed excitement to the East Coast poker scene.
But amidst the excitement, a pressing question looms: Can this live event help breathe new life into the stagnant New Jersey online poker market?
The Borgata Open Poker Series: $4 Million guaranteed
Borgata announced the return of the Borgata Fall Open, one of the biggest tournament series this September.
Running in Atlantic City from September 3-17, the series will feature 30 trophy main events and 33 secondary tournaments, totaling 63 games. Buy-ins range from $210 to $10,700.
Highlights of the series include mixed game events with a leaderboard, two heads-up events, an online satellite series with a 10k High Roller Package, live stream games, special hotel tournament rates, and online registration.
Some stand out tournaments include:
- $800 NLH Kick Off- multi flight (Event 1, Sept. 3-7) – $1 Million GTD
- $1250 NLH Mirror Mystery Bounty-multi flight (Event 9, Sept. 6-9) – $500,000 GTD
- $500 NLH Almighty Stack-multi flight (Event 17, Sept. 9-13)- $1 Million GTD
- $3500 NLH Open Championship- multi flight (Event 25, Sept. 13-17) – $1.5 Million GTD
State of online poker in New Jersey
With live events happening regularly at Borgata Atlantic City, will this help boost the online poker market?
New Jersey was once at the forefront of the online poker boom in the United States. However, recent years have seen stagnant results in terms of NJ online gambling revenue. Aside from the COVID year in 2020, results have stayed about the same with short rises or declines year over year.
The stagnation of online poker revenue in New Jersey over the past decade can be attributed to several factors.
Primarily, the explosive growth of NJ online casinos as well as sports betting in New Jersey has shifted players’ interest and spending away from online poker. With the world of online casinos and the legalization of sports betting, players have more diverse gambling options, leading to a decreased market share for online poker.
Additionally, the novelty of online poker has possibly been diluted in the years as well.
Ways to improve NJ online poker, boost player numbers
Poker is still alive and well. This past summer the World Series of Poker set record live numbers yet again. The $10,000 Main Event had record entries into the field. So how does the live world shift that growth into the online game?
To revitalize online poker and attract more players, several strategies can be implemented to enhance the appeal and competitiveness of the game. These improvements can help boost numbers and breathe fresh air into a stagnant market. Here are some key areas for enhancement:
1. New regulated online poker states
This is not a new idea, but unfortunately this has been hurting online poker in the US for years. And one that is outside of New Jersey’s control.
Expanding the number of states that regulate online poker is crucial for growth. For example, Michigan’s entry into the regulated market in January 2021 marked a significant step, generating millions in tax revenue.
Currently, states with legalized online poker include New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Nevada, and Delaware. While Connecticut legalized online poker in 2021, it hasn’t gone live yet, and West Virginia, despite legalization, may need interstate compacts due to its small population.
Efforts are underway to include more states like Indiana and Maryland, and their participation could significantly boost the online poker player base. Sites have not launched in these additional states.
2. Bolster interstate compacts
Creating interstate compacts between all legal online poker states would generate significant excitement and larger prize pools.
Currently, WSOP NJ and PokerStars NJ are the only operators tying New Jersey to players in Nevada and Michigan. Although Pennsylvania has proposed compact deals, they haven’t launched.
Once these agreements are in place, players can look forward to events like a potential weekly Sunday million-dollar guaranteed tournament, which would attract both casual and serious players.
3. Viral marketing campaigns
Leveraging viral marketing through online streamers, influencers, and platforms like TikTok can significantly boost online poker’s visibility and appeal.
By collaborating with popular online personalities, poker operators can reach a younger and more diverse audience. Engaging content such as live streams, tutorial videos, and exciting challenge series can create a buzz and draw in new players, making online poker more trendy and accessible.
4. Enhancing game integrity and accessibility
Ensuring a fair and enjoyable gaming experience is paramount for attracting and retaining players. This includes efforts to eliminate bots and Real-Time Assistance (RTA) software that give some players an unfair advantage.
After the recent WSOP Main Event controversy on the rail, players feel at unease about getting into poker because they feel they are outmatched and playing against computer solvers. Additionally, poker platforms should focus on creating beginner-friendly environments with tutorials, low-stakes games, and community support.
By making the game more accessible and enjoyable for new players, the overall player base can grow steadily.
5. Global expansion and connectivity
Expanding and connecting online poker platforms globally can open up vast new markets and increase player liquidity.
In 2017, New Jersey Sen. Ray Lesniak introduced a bill for internationally regulated iGaming, aiming to connect US players with global platforms like PartyPoker and GGPoker. Although the bill did not gain traction and Lesniak has since left office, revisiting this idea could bring substantial benefits.
A globally connected network would offer larger tournaments, diverse player pools, and increased revenues, revitalizing the online poker industry.
6. Creating more poker experiences
Enhancing the overall poker experience can bridge the gap between online and live poker.
BetMGM Poker NJ has successfully done this by offering online satellite packages that allow players to win entries into major events in Las Vegas and at Borgata Atlantic City for a small investment. These packages often include free hotel stays, spending money, tournament entries, VIP parties, and exclusive swag.
Such experiences not only provide added value but also position online poker as a gateway to the mainstream poker scene. By continuing to offer these event experiences, online poker platforms can attract more players and foster a stronger community.
Online poker in New Jersey is far from dead; it is a sleeping giant waiting to be awakened.
While it has taken a backseat to the booming sports betting and online casino industries, it holds immense potential that can be unlocked with the right strategies. By expanding regulated markets, establishing interstate compacts, and leveraging viral marketing online poker can reclaim its growth.
With a little push and innovative thinking, online poker can once again become a major player in the Garden State.
