It has been reported that PokerStars has pulled its casino games from the Spanish online gambling market – after only launching the titles several months ago. While this who situation could boil down to regulatory requirements in Spain, there are whispers that there is more to it than that.
At Slots Temple, we love a good controversy, so we’ve decided to delve further into the case of the missing casino games.
The Addition Of Casino Games To PokerStars
Earlier this year, PokerStars made the controversial decision to offer online casino games like slots, blackjack and roulette. The site has a huge following of online poker players, but noticed that many players would leave the site in order to wager on casino games. To retain these players, PokerStars launched a suite of luck-based games.
The Missing Games
This week, poker players and industry experts reported that the casino games are no longer available on PokerStars.es. Games like blackjack, roulette and craps have all been pulled.
The Claim
According to reports, PokerStars pulled the games in order to comply with local gaming laws. In Spain, online blackjack platforms are required to provide players with a detailed hand history. Since PokerStars’ blackjack offering was missing this feature, the games were pulled.
The Doubt
Some online casino sleuths were not satisfied with this answer. At Durrrr Challenge, it was noted that detailed hand histories actual were available on PokerStars – until recently.
Now, they are wondering why the operator would pulled the games altogether rather than simply providing a software update in order to comply with local gaming laws.
The Speculation
Ever since PokerStars launched online casino games in Spain, the company’s poker activity has seen a decline. There are 20% fewer players at the poker tables, prompting industry experts to assume that many serious poker players would prefer to play at a dedicated poker site.
The Proof
Poker Pro Vicky Coren left Team PokerStars shortly after it was announced that the company would be adding casino games to its offering. As a skilled poker player and responsible gambling advocate, she could not support games of luck being added to the platform. Her departure is proof that serious poker players would actually choose to leave the site upon the addition of casino games.
The Real Story?
At the moment, we’re not particularly sure. PokerStars may have pulled the games temporarily in order sort out its regulatory issues with Spanish gaming regulators.
However, it is entirely possible that it is a permanent move that aims to recapture the interest of serious online poker players. As the story develops, we will certainly let you know.
