Pokerstars is the largest poker web site in the world. Because of this, it is attractive to players of varying caliber. At peak periods, as many as 20,000 cash game players and 100,000 tournament players can be found on PokerStars. The sheer volume ensures that a player can find nearly any game and any limit 24 hours a day. PokerStars has produced several World Series of Poker Main Event winners such as Chris Moneymaker and Greg Raymers. To evaluate the quality of Pokerstars‘ gameplay, it may be helpful to first examine individual aspects that factor into the site’s gaming experience.
Software
PokerStars’ software is generally well regarded, touting numerous customization options. For instance, the player can download and install various themes that affect the look and feel of the gaming experience. Players can also upload custom photos to use as their virtual avatar and can change this photo at any time.
Aside from looks, the Pokerstars software offers an extensive filtering system, allowing the player to filter out any games or buy-ins that do not match his or her specified parameters. This is especially important given PokerStars’ high level of traffic and player volume, which makes scrolling through all the games impractical. The player can also see the average pot size, players per flop and hands per hour at any given table. Another feature is the ability for the player to view an animated replay of their most recent hand.
Considering its high traffic, Pokerstars typically runs quickly and smoothly, but it occasionally suffers minor slowdowns during peak hours.
Game Selection
One key advantage that such high volume gives Pokerstars is a varied selection of game types and limits. PokerStars features the following game types, each of which are available as Sit’n'Go or scheduled tournaments as well as ring games with different limit settings:
Texas Hold’em
Omaha
7 Card Stud
5 Card Draw
Razz
H.O.R.S.E.
Badugi
Bonus Information
Pokerstars offers a 100% bonus up to a total of $600 on a player’s first three deposits. Reload bonuses for existing players are also offered at varying times throughout the year, which typically run at 20% up to $120.
The site also features a Frequent Player Program that gives players Frequent Player Points for playing real money games. These points can be spent on various things such as electronics, apparel or tournament entries.
Competition
Due to Pokerstars high level of player volume, the competition between games can vary dramatically. The opposition at one table can be passive while the next table may be very aggressive. As a general rule, however, lower limit tables and tournaments have lower levels of competition and less-skilled players while the higher limit tables are often frequented by professional or semi-professional players trying to earn large amounts of money.
Support
PokerStars offers 24/7 customer support by email. Responses are typically given in a matter of minutes. Pokerstars also employs moderators who are on hand at all times to handle any matters that may arise at the table.
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