BetRivers Poker Launches Online in Pennsylvania

Today, BetRivers officially enters the online poker market in Pennsylvania, bringing real-money player-versus-player poker to its customer base. This launch marks the achievement of a strategic vision dating back to 2022, when Rush Street Interactive (RSI), BetRivers’ parent company, acquired the Phil Galfond-designed platform, Run It Once Poker. The arrival of BetRivers Poker enriches the competitive online poker scene in the U.S., mirroring a growing trend toward state-regulated online gaming.

The anticipation around BetRivers Poker’s launch has been significant, with its timeline only recently confirmed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) following all necessary regulatory approvals. This milestone highlights the shifting landscape of legalized online gambling in the U.S., which has transformed since the 2018 repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA).

Phil Galfond, a prominent figure in the poker community, has been instrumental in crafting the BetRivers Poker experience. In a recent announcement, Galfond shared that the platform was designed to appeal to a wide range of players—from beginners to seasoned professionals. His involvement in game design, promotions, and policies underscores BetRivers’ commitment to a fair and exciting environment for online poker.

BetRivers Poker debuts with a robust lineup of features that position it as a strong competitor in the online poker arena. In addition to classic cash games and large multi-table tournaments, BetRivers introduces innovative formats like Sit & Go Select tournaments. This feature includes two variations: the Classic SNG, a quick three-handed tournament, and the Cub3d, which offers randomized prize payouts up to 1,500 times the buy-in. The addition of these fast-paced games aligns with a broader industry trend toward high-speed, engaging formats that attract players. The Cub3d format, already popular internationally, makes its U.S. debut with BetRivers, further enhancing its appeal.

One of BetRivers’ standout advantages is its low rake, among the most favorable in Pennsylvania. Sit & Go Select tournaments have a rake between 4% and 6.7%, significantly lower than the 7% on PokerStars’ Spin & Go tournaments. Cash games carry a nominal rake of 4.75%, with effective rates varying by stakes and style of play. BetRivers’ strategy of offering a lower rake at smaller stakes is expected to attract recreational players, fostering a diverse and vibrant player base.

This emphasis on low rake signals a fresh approach in online poker, contrasting with sites that typically impose higher fees at lower stakes. By reducing rake, BetRivers hopes to create a welcoming environment for new and casual players, potentially driving higher engagement and retention.

While BetRivers Poker introduces many exciting features, it has chosen not to carry over the Splash the Pot rewards system from Run It Once Poker. This feature, which boosted random pots by redistributing some of the rake, was intended to create more dynamic gameplay. However, it appears incompatible with BetRivers’ low rake strategy and its integration with the iRush Rewards loyalty program.

Although the absence of Splash the Pot may disappoint some players, it leaves room for BetRivers Poker to explore future promotions or other unique features. As the online poker industry continues to evolve, BetRivers may reintroduce or adapt these innovative concepts to further set itself apart in a competitive market.