Online poker rooms have two options upon launching in regards to software, either have a stand-alone software solution or operate on a network offered by another provider. Most poker rooms use another poker network, going with a top provider to bring in poker traffic. However, some sites decide to go their own way. This would include online poker site PKR.
PKR has been very successful with online poker gaming, hosting a 3D poker room that provides cash gaming and tournament options. With their own software, PKR allowed players to customize avatars, with realistic features. This was a big draw to PKR and one reason why the brand is so popular. It was recently announced that PKR will now be joining the Microgaming Poker Network, instead of using their own stand-alone software.
By the end of February, PKR will make the switch to the Microgaming Poker Network. The transition will actually take place before the end of February and is the latest room to join MPN since Grosvenor Casino decided to announce their partnership with the network just a few days ago.
Chris Welch of PKR announced the changes at the website of poker room by stating:
PKR has been able to remain in business due to the poker community found at the online poker room as well as the originality of the site. The 3D gaming software was something different that players have enjoyed for years. Even though PKR will be moving to a new network, they will still continue to offer the same great gaming options. Now, the only question is if the poker community will be able to remain the same with the move.
PKR will be able to take advantage of multiple opportunities with the move. There will be six times the traffic and three times as many tournament options. Tournament prizes will reach the millions, giving players access to tons of cash during game play.
There will be changes to PKR included in the move. The monetary system of PKR will change to euros from dollars and the loyalty scheme will be updated. PKR will change its name to the PKR Poker VIP Club and players will have the option to choose a different poker alias and continue to change their alias over time. Members will also be able to take part in the anonymous tables.
PKR will not only be moving to the Microgaming Poker Network, but the brand will also be offering two new casino gaming options. PKR Vegas and PKR Casino will be two new sites offering millions in jackpot prizes for players who take part in casino game play. The brand has decided not to focus on poker alone, and will now offer more products with the same great gaming look and feel.
PKR believes that the change will provide better options for gamers and help the brand to be more successful. Based on player response at the PKR forums, most players seem open to the changes. Some are worried about the VIP scheme, wanting to be able to take advantage of rewards during game play. The change will not be implemented until later on the in the month, so it will be interesting to see how the site once it moves to the MPN as well as how players adapt with the move. The Microgaming Poker Network is a successful one that should be able to move PKR to the next level.