poker trip de

Poker Roadmap 2023 mit Poker-Trip.de

Turnier kalender bounty hunter days 2023.

• 02.02. - 05.02.2023 
• 27.04. - 30.04.2023
• 17.08. - 20.08.2023 
• 09.11. - 12.11.2023 (Infos hier)
• 26.07. - 30.07.2023 
• 23.03. - 26.03.2023
• 28.09. - 01.10.2023 (Infos hier)
• 24.04. - 01.05.2023
• 26.10. - 31.10.2023 (Infos hier)

Copyright 2019 © Alle Rechte vorbehalten.

Poker Card Genius

Uncover Your Online Poker Mastery – Rise Above the Competition

• Best Online Poker Sites
• Poker Strategies
• Online Poker
• Poker Psychology
• Poker Etiquette
• Poker Lifestyle

Poker Travel Guide: Exploring the World’s Best Poker Destinations and Tournaments

The Poker Travel Guide: Exploring the World’s Best Poker Destinations and Tournaments is a comprehensive resource for poker enthusiasts looking to combine their love for the game with travel. This guide provides valuable information on the top poker destinations around the world, highlighting the best tournaments, casinos, and poker rooms in each location. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner looking to experience the thrill of live poker, this guide will help you plan your next poker adventure and make the most of your travel experience.

Top Poker Destinations: Where to Play and Stay for the Ultimate Poker Experience

Las Vegas, Nevada, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic poker destinations in the world. Known as the gambling capital of the United States, Las Vegas offers a wide range of poker tournaments and cash games to suit every player’s skill level. From the famous World Series of Poker (WSOP) held at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino to the daily tournaments at the Bellagio and Aria, there is no shortage of poker action in Sin City. Moreover, Las Vegas boasts a plethora of luxurious hotels and resorts, ensuring that players have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

For those looking to venture outside of the United States, Macau, China, is a must-visit destination for poker enthusiasts. Macau has quickly become the Asian gambling hub, with several world-class casinos offering high-stakes poker games. The City of Dreams and the Venetian Macau are two popular venues that host major poker tournaments throughout the year. In addition to the poker action, Macau offers a vibrant nightlife and a unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese culture, making it an ideal destination for both poker and cultural exploration.

Europe is also home to some of the best poker destinations in the world. London, England, is a favorite among poker players, with its prestigious casinos and vibrant poker scene. The Hippodrome Casino and the Empire Casino are two popular venues that offer a variety of poker games and tournaments. London’s rich history and cultural attractions provide an added bonus for players looking to immerse themselves in the city’s charm.

Another European gem for poker enthusiasts is Barcelona, Spain. The Casino Barcelona hosts the European Poker Tour (EPT) and is a favorite destination for players from around the world. The city’s beautiful architecture, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife make it an ideal location for combining poker with a memorable vacation.

Moving across the Atlantic, the Caribbean island of Aruba is a paradise for poker players. The annual Aruba Poker Classic held at the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino attracts some of the biggest names in the poker world. With its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical climate, Aruba offers a perfect blend of relaxation and poker excitement.

A Guide to the World’s Most Prestigious Poker Tournaments and Events

One of the most prestigious poker tournaments in the world is the World Series of Poker (WSOP) held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada. Established in 1970, the WSOP has grown into a massive event, attracting thousands of players from around the globe. With a wide range of buy-ins and game variations, there’s something for everyone at the WSOP. The Main Event, with its multi-million-dollar prize pool, is the highlight of the series and is a dream for any aspiring poker player .

If you’re looking for a taste of European poker action, the European Poker Tour (EPT) is a must-visit. The EPT is a series of poker tournaments held in various European cities, including Barcelona, Prague, and Monte Carlo. Known for its high-stakes games and glamorous settings, the EPT offers players the chance to compete against some of the best in the world while enjoying the vibrant culture and stunning scenery of Europe.

For those seeking a tropical poker experience, the Caribbean Adventure (PCA) is the perfect choice. Held in the Bahamas, the PCA combines world-class poker with a luxurious vacation. Players can enjoy pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and top-notch accommodations while battling it out on the felt. With its relaxed atmosphere and stunning surroundings, the PCA is a favorite among both professional and recreational players.

If you’re looking for a poker tournament with a rich history, the Aussie Millions in Melbourne, Australia, is a must-visit. Established in 1998, the Aussie Millions has become one of the most prestigious poker events in the Southern Hemisphere. With its massive prize pools and star-studded fields, the Aussie Millions attracts top players from around the world. The Crown Casino, where the tournament is held, offers a world-class gaming experience and a vibrant nightlife scene, making it a favorite destination for poker enthusiasts.

Exploring the Best Poker Rooms and Casinos Around the Globe

Las Vegas, Nevada, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic poker destinations in the world. The city is home to numerous world-class casinos that offer a wide range of poker games and tournaments. The Bellagio, for example, is known for its luxurious poker room and hosts the prestigious World Poker Tour events. The Venetian is another popular choice, with its spacious poker room and regular high-stakes cash games. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, Las Vegas offers something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a poker destination with a touch of European charm, then look no further than Monte Carlo, Monaco. The Casino de Monte Carlo is a legendary establishment that has been hosting high-stakes poker games for over a century. The casino’s opulent surroundings and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea create a truly unforgettable poker experience. Additionally, Monte Carlo is home to the European Poker Tour Grand Final, attracting some of the best players from around the world.

For those seeking a poker adventure in Asia, Macau is the place to be. Often referred to as the “Las Vegas of the East,” Macau has become a major player in the global poker scene. The City of Dreams and the Venetian Macau are two of the most popular casinos in Macau, offering a wide range of poker games and tournaments. The annual Asia Pacific Poker Tour Macau event is a highlight for many players, with its massive prize pools and intense competition.

Moving across the globe to Australia, the Crown Casino in Melbourne is a must-visit for poker enthusiasts. The casino’s poker room is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and regularly hosts major tournaments, including the Aussie Millions. With its vibrant atmosphere and top-notch facilities, the Crown Casino offers a truly memorable poker experience.

Poker Travel Tips: How to Plan Your Poker Trip Like a Pro

First and foremost, it’s essential to research the best poker destinations and tournaments. The world is full of incredible poker hotspots, from the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas to the vibrant poker scene in Macau. Each destination offers a unique experience, so consider your preferences and budget when choosing where to go.

Once you’ve decided on a destination, it’s time to plan your itinerary. Start by determining the dates of the poker tournaments you want to participate in or watch. Many poker tournaments have a schedule available online, allowing you to plan your trip accordingly. Consider the duration of the tournament and any additional events or activities you’d like to include in your itinerary.

Next, it’s crucial to set a budget for your poker trip. Determine how much you’re willing to spend on travel, accommodation, tournament buy-ins, and other expenses. Keep in mind that poker tournaments can have varying buy-ins, so choose ones that align with your budget. Additionally, factor in the cost of meals, transportation, and entertainment during your stay.

When it comes to booking accommodations, consider staying at a hotel or resort that is close to the poker tournament venue. This will save you time and transportation costs. Many poker destinations offer special rates for tournament participants, so be sure to inquire about any available discounts. If you’re traveling with a group, consider renting a vacation home or apartment to save on accommodation costs.

Transportation is another crucial aspect of planning your poker trip. Research the best way to get to your destination, whether it’s by plane, train, or car. If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to check visa requirements and any necessary travel documents. Once you arrive at your destination, consider renting a car or using public transportation to get around. Familiarize yourself with the local transportation system to ensure a smooth and efficient journey.

While poker may be the main focus of your trip, don’t forget to explore the destination’s other attractions. Many poker destinations offer a wide range of entertainment options, from world-class restaurants and shopping to cultural landmarks and natural wonders. Take some time to plan activities outside of the poker room to make the most of your trip.

Lastly, don’t forget to pack appropriately for your poker trip. Bring comfortable clothing and shoes for long hours at the poker table. Consider bringing a power bank for your electronic devices, as well as any necessary adapters for international travel. It’s also a good idea to bring a notebook and pen to jot down any important information or strategies you learn during the tournament.

Uncovering Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Poker Destinations Worth Visiting

One hidden gem is the city of Barcelona in Spain. Known for its stunning architecture and vibrant culture, Barcelona also boasts a thriving poker scene. The Casino Barcelona is a must-visit for any poker enthusiast, offering a wide range of cash games and tournaments. The casino is also home to the European Poker Tour (EPT) Barcelona, one of the most prestigious poker tournaments in the world. With its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife, Barcelona is the perfect destination for combining poker with a memorable vacation.

Moving on to Eastern Europe, Prague in the Czech Republic is another hidden gem for poker players. The city’s rich history and picturesque charm make it an ideal backdrop for a poker adventure. The King’s Casino in Prague is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a variety of poker games and tournaments. The casino’s luxurious setting and friendly atmosphere create a truly enjoyable gaming experience. Additionally, Prague hosts the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Europe, attracting top players from around the globe. Exploring the city’s historic sites and indulging in delicious Czech cuisine are just added bonuses to an already fantastic poker trip.

For those seeking a tropical poker getaway, the Bahamas is a destination that should not be overlooked. The Atlantis Resort in Nassau is a paradise, with luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, and a vibrant casino atmosphere. Combining poker with a tropical vacation has never been easier or more enjoyable.

Heading to the Far East, Macau is a hidden gem that has become a poker hotspot in recent years. Known as the “Las Vegas of Asia,” Macau offers a unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultures. The city’s casinos offer a wide range of poker games and tournaments, attracting players from all over the world. Macau is also home to the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT), which showcases the best poker talent in the region. Exploring Macau’s historic sites, sampling its delicious cuisine, and experiencing its vibrant nightlife are all part of the unforgettable poker journey in this Asian gem.

In conclusion, while famous poker destinations like Las Vegas and Monte Carlo are undoubtedly exciting, there are plenty of lesser-known poker destinations that offer unique experiences and thrilling tournaments. From the vibrant city of Barcelona to the historic charm of Prague, the tropical paradise of the Bahamas to the bustling streets of Macau, these hidden gems are definitely worth a visit for any poker enthusiast. So, pack your bags, sharpen your skills, and get ready to explore the world’s best poker destinations and tournaments.

You Might Also Like

Poker and Beyond: How Poker Can Improve Your Life Skills and Decision-Making

Balancing Act: Long-Term Poker Success through Personal Life and Self-Care

The ups and downs of poker: embracing variance and handling the swings.

Living the Dream: The Allure and Realities of the Poker Pro Lifestyle

Latest news.

Poker Math in Action: Applying Strategies to Complex In-Game Situations

Beyond the Cards: Mastering Table Image Psychology for Poker Dominance

Mobile Poker Revolution: Seizing the Convenience of On-the-Go Gameplay

Exotic Poker Thrills: Dive into Lesser-Known Variants for a Unique Gaming Experience

Poker Progression: Essential Tips for Advancing from Novice to Pro

Jetsetter’s poker guide: exploring global tournaments and destinations.

• Poker Variants

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Destinations

Experiences.

• Photography

Plan Your Trip

Win Big When You Travel to These Top Poker Cities

December 18, 2020 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

There’s never a bad time for a poker vacation, even if some travelers limit their options for taking one. Gamblers in the US and Europe , for example, often assume the only place they can travel is Las Vegas.

The good news? Many of the world’s best poker cities are also exciting destinations in and of themselves. The better news? I’m about to succinctly outline them, so it’s easy for you to book your flight and go.

Continue reading to learn my perspective, and to get inspired for your next trip, no matter when you end up taking. I certainly feel lucky—and grateful—that you’re here!

The Problem With Las Vegas

When most travelers begin to plan a poker vacation, Las Vegas is the first (and, in many cases, only) place that comes to mind. On one hand, this is understandable. In addition to hosting some of the world’s best casinos, Las Vegas is an all-inclusive entertainment destination. The quality of hotels, restaurants and shopping malls is second-to-none, to say nothing of all the gorgeous desert scenery within a short drive of the Strip .

At the same time, Las Vegas’ golden reputation means that it’s always crowded, meaning that it can be hard to get a seat at any given poker table. Moreover, since so many skilled players come to Vegas, it can be hard to find your footing once you finally do join a game, particularly if you aren’t very confident, or simply haven’t played enough to craft your own strategy. Thankfully, many other cities in the world are perfect if you want to travel to play poker.

Three Ideas for Your Next Poker Vacation

Edinburgh, scotland.

Edinburgh is a magnificent city not only for the picturesque old town surroundings timeless Edinburgh Castle, but also because it’s a great base for travel in Scotland. You can visit the city of Glasgow or the Loch Ness Monster on a day trip, while more distant destinations like the Isle of Skye are an easy weekend away.

For those looking to get lucky, Edinburgh is home to two poker rooms: Genting Fountain Park and the Grosvenor Casino. Since online poker is also legal in the UK, visitors to Edinburgh might also log on to PokerStars, where the pokerstars free money code offers a cash incentive you simply can’t get in physical poker rooms, as wonderful as their ambiance may be.

Rozvadov, Czech Republic

The quaint Czech city of Rozvadov is home to miles of walking trails and fairytale forests, but tourism here is limited—except when it comes to poker. This unassuming town actually boasts the biggest poker room in Europe: King’s Casino Rozvadov. To get here, take advantage of the casino’s dedicated service, which can quickly take you from Prague Airport to the German borderlands.

The games never stop at this 24-hour room. King’s Casino hosts daily tournaments for amateur players on poker vacations, with buy-ins ranging from €30 to €25,000. At certain times of the year, pros also get in on the action, from the German Championship of Poker (GCOP) to the week-long King’s Deepstack Series poker festival.

Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne is one of my favorite cities in the world—I hope to return there once Australia has opened back up. When I’m not having a stroll along the Yarra River in the heart of town, you can usually find me driving along the majestic Great Ocean Road.

Australia’s second city also plays happens to host the best poker room on the continent, the Crown Melbourne. Here players on a poker vacation flock to try their luck at over 50 poker tables, mostly no-limit Hold ‘em with some Omaha variants thrown into the mix. Cash games and weekly tournaments are the main draws, but the Crown also hosts infamous annual tournaments like the Aussie Millions and the Victorian Poker Championship.

Macau: The Vegas of the East

A semi-autonomous Chinese territory just across the water from Hong Kong, Macau is to Asian gamers what Vegas is to poker players in the West. Like Vegas, Macau blends an interesting cityscape and landscape with first-rate casinos, great hotels and incredible shopping. Another interesting thing about visiting Macau is how multicultural it is. Since it was formerly a Portuguese colony, there’s a decidedly Latin flavor to its cuisine and architecture.

Regardless of which game you prefer to play, and whether or not you visit other poker destinations on this list, I do hope you’ll consider visiting Macau on your next trip to the Far East. It’s one of the most interesting and underrated places I’ve ever visited, precisely because it’s so much more than its casinos. Even better, you can easily come here on a day trip from Hong Kong (another one of my favorite places in the world).

The Bottom Line

I hope you’ve opened your mind to all the different forms a poker vacation can take. Which is not to say you should feel ashamed if you simply want to go to Las Vegas or Macau—quite the contrary. Instead, I want you to realize that as a poker-minded traveler, the entire world is your oyster, whether in Europe or the British Isles, or in Australia’s cosmopolitan second city. Before I leave you, I’ll end with a call to action: Have you ever traveled somewhere out-of-the-ordinary to play poker? Leave a comment below and tell me. Regardless of where you travel next, and whether or not you end up playing poker, I hope your trip is safe, happy and unforgettable!

Subscribe to email updates!

Words, images and design ©2009-2024 Robert Schrader, All rights reserved. Read Privacy Policy or view sitemap .

Attention Poker Rooms

• Join PokerAtlas

Change Location

Use current location or see all cities, online poker.

• NJ Online Casinos
• TableCaptain™

Poker Tournament Series and Special Events

Every poker tournament series, event and festival in the US and Canada is here on PokerAtlas, including the World Series of Poker (WSOP), World Poker Tour (WPT), Heartland Poker Tour (HPT), and all others. Click on any event for the full tournament schedule, including dates, start times, buy-ins, structures, and details about each.

Have a question about any tournament series? Ask our community!

Filter Results

• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• Pennsylvania

Houston, TX

Round Rock, TX

Kahnawake, QC

Bell Gardens, CA

Las Vegas, NV

Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Hanover, MD

Pendleton, OR

Columbus, OH

St. Charles, MO

St. Augustine, FL

Black Hawk, CO

Cannes, Cannes

Cincinnati, OH

Calgary, AB

Hawaiian Gardens, CA

Daytona Beach, FL

Philadelphia, PA

Oxon Hill, MD

Forest Lake, MN

Broadbeach, Queensland

Robinsonville, MS

Scottsdale, AZ

Council Bluffs, IA

Henderson, KY

El Cajon, CA

Greensburg, PA

Atlantic City, NJ

Coconut Creek, FL

Maryland Heights, MO

Cherokee, NC

PokerAtlas uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use and to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .

www.poker-trip.de Stephan Kübler

• Poker-Trip.de has been offering poker trips in Europe and worldwide for over 4 years.
• German • English
• Professional tour guide

Similar Experiences

www.poker-trip.de Stephan Kübler (Rozvadov, Czech Republic): Address - Tripadvisor

• Boating Holidays
• Asia & Pacific
• Australia & New Zealand
• Central America
• Indonesia & Indian Ocean
• Middle East
• Scandinavia
• South America
• Business Travel
• Culinary Travel
• Wellness Travel
• Golf Travel
• Travel Style
• Travel Gear
• Travel Fashion
• Real Estate
• Destination Weddings
• Fishing Holidays
• Tricks & Hacks
• Travel News
• #WHERETONEXT
• Read All the Issues
• Working with DRIFT Travel
• Submit Your Photos to DRIFT Travel
• DRIFT Travel Magazine Media Kit

• TRAVEL TIPS

A Complete Guide To Poker Traveling

Traveling the world and playing poker are two of life’s greatest pleasures for a poker player. Some travel firms will even cover your major travel fees if you agree to play a set number of hours at the hotel casino while you’re there, making these trips ideal for poker enthusiasts. Visit https://www.ignitioncasino.eu/poker for more details.

Poker Traveling

During major European poker events, there are poker agents in Europe offering special packages for poker travelers.

The Working Process

Poker tournaments, cash games, and cash games take place at certain casinos and hotels. The player is needed to play a certain number of hours at the tables, but all lodging and further discounts are provided free of charge.

Over the course of the event’s weekend, players are expected to put in anything from 12 to 16 hours of work. All players are required to pay the guest fee and receive a refund on the final day of the event. The guest payment will be refunded in full as a cash refund.

There will be no discounts for any poker players that tour with the group. A wristband is supplied to each player to keep track of the number of hours they have spent at the tables. In addition to the other features, the bracelet will include. It is possible for a player to claim their cash-back after meeting the required number of hours at the main poker desk.

Complimentary refreshments, a 24-hour buffet, a valet, free lunch, and an SPA are all possibilities for additional bonuses. In order to have a good time with your fellow poker players, you need to follow the rules of proper poker etiquette.

Prague, Bratislava and Nova Gorica are among the most popular destinations.

It’s possible to attend the Battle of Malta, a tournament held in the Savarin Casino in Prague. A new European event takes place every weekend.

Players can choose whether or not they want to spend their bonus money to stay at the casino for free. Another option is to simply register for the event and pay no fee for the hotel.

Interesting Poker Traveling Tips

All of these items are essential for a successful trip: an extra laptop, batteries, charger, a mobile data hubspot (a VPN), and an excellent backpack for your luggage.

When planning a trip, check the local weather forecasts. It’s not uncommon for hurricane season to hit the Caribbean, which is a favorite location for poker players. During the rainy season, tropical areas are particularly badly struck.

Top 3 places to play poker in the world

1. las vegas, nevada, usa.

On the Las Vegas Strip alone, there are over 32 casinos to choose from. At Binion’s, you may play for as little as $2 to $4 at one of the top poker rooms around. The Bellagio’s “Bobby’s Room” offers a wide variety of high-stakes games.

2. Monaco, Monte Carlo

The European Poker Tour Grand Finale takes place here every year, making it one of the most prestigious poker venues in the world. You don’t have to be a big spender to visit Monte Carlo, as there are various budget tables available.

3. Los Angeles, California

There are almost 240 card tables inside the Commerce Casino, which is referred to as the “World’s Largest Poker Casino” for its size.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

The Psychology Behind Pokies: What Makes Them So Addictive?

Exploring THC Cartridges: How They Work and Their Benefits

From Seed to Plant: Mastering the Germination Process for Weed Seeds

Privacy overview.

Savor a Contemporary Taste of La Dolce Vita at Hotel La...

PokerHopper

PokerHopper | Live poker events | Schedules | Buy-ins | Sattellites | Hotels.

The ambiance of the Balkans will be brought to Card Casino Bratislava at the end of May for the Poker Trip Festival. You will see an impressive guarantee of more than €200,000 GTD from May 23 to 29.

It’s no secret that we had many live poker festivals this spring. Everyone knows events like the Vamos Poker Tour, World Poker Tour, and Benelux Poker Tour. But the Croatian Poker Trip Festival will also take place at the end of the fifth month, with a whopping €200,000 GTD Main Event.

The festival will kick off on Tuesday, May 23, with the Satellite to the Main Event starting at 6:00 PM, featuring a buy-in of €40 and a guarantee of at least 10 tickets to the Main Event.

An hour later, the Main Event will start at 7:00 PM, with DAY 1A. The buy-in for this event is €230, and players will begin with a stack of 50,000 chips and 40-minute levels. Those who make it through the 12th level will advance to DAY 2.

The Main Event will have multiple flights on the following days, as follows:

Good news for all players who advance to DAY 2. The blinds will be extended to 50 minutes.

The closest good hotel to the Card Casino Bratislava is the Hotel Set , which is just a five-minute walk away. This modern hotel features sleek and stylish rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.

Another option is the Mercure Bratislava Centrum Hotel , which is about a 15-minute walk from the casino. This elegant hotel boasts spacious and comfortable rooms, a restaurant and bar, and a fitness center.

For a more luxurious stay, the Grand Hotel River Park, a Luxury Collection Hotel. It is located about a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride away. This 5-star hotel features plush rooms with river views, an indoor pool and spa, multiple restaurants and bars, and even a rooftop lounge.

Other nearby hotels include the Hotel Tatra, the Lindner Hotel Gallery Central, and the NH Bratislava Gate One. With several options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay for your visit to Bratislava.

Overall, the Poker Trip Festival in Bratislava promises to be an exciting event for poker players and enthusiasts alike. With a total guarantee of over €200,000 and multiple opportunities to qualify for the Main Event, there’s a lot at stake and plenty of chances to win big. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, don’t miss your chance to be a part of this thrilling festival and experience all that Bratislava has to offer.

Save your money and time! Let us prepare a package for you

It may include discounts on event, accommodation, flight

Your Country*

Phone Number*

Choose Messenger* Telegram WhatsApp Viber

Your e-mail

Meet the Final Table of WPT Voyage Championship

Defending wpt world champion dan sepiol, four-time wpt final tablist farid jattin and high roller regular aram oganyan are among the final nine players in the wpt voyage championship event..

After two long days of battling it out deep into the night on Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady, the final nine players in the field have each locked down their seat at the WPT Voyage Championship final table. 

There are some familiar faces coming back Tuesday at 2 p.m. ET to battle it out for the first ever WPT Voyage Championship title. Topping the chip counts is Farid Jattin , who is at his fourth career WPT final table and first since making a pair of those appearances in 2016.

Jattin claimed that chip lead on the final hand of the night, courtesy of arguably the most notable player remaining in the field – Dan Sepiol , the winner of the 2023 WPT World Championship at Wynn Las Vegas. Sepiol won over $5.2 million back in December, and he’s back vying for his second career WPT title just a few months out from his life-changing victory.

Aram Oganyan , who is a familiar face in some of the biggest high roller tournaments in the world, is in the mix as well as he seeks his first major title. Austin Srur, who had a career-best performance in a WPTDeepStacks event back in the summer of 2021, is poised for a breakout victory and sits second to start the day Wednesday, with he and Jattin considerably out in front of the rest of the pack.

There are two Brazilians at the WPT Voyage final table, including prolific cash game vlogger Romulo Dorea . Kasey Lyn Mills , also known as ‘Poker Mommaa,’ is in the midst of a breakout year in which she won a pair of WSOP Circuit rings in a matter of days, and she’ll be looking to become just the third woman ever to join the WPT Champions Club.

Here’s what the final nine players will be competing for when play resumes Wednesday afternoon.

You can follow along throughout the day Wednesday as our live updates team covers the action from start to finish. Ahead of the final table, let’s get to know each of our final nine players a little bit better.

1. Farid Jattin | 3,650,000 (91 big blinds)

Age: 35 Birthplace: Colombia Hometown: Miami, FL Lifetime Live Tournament Earnings: $8,688,112 Biggest Lifetime Cash: $746,000, 7th, 2019 PSPC $25,000 Championship Other Prominent Scores: 1st, 2020 Aussie Millions $25K Challenge for $678,831; 1st, 2023 Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open for $655,000; 2nd, 2022 WSOP $5,000 No Limit Hold’em for $334,747; 5th, 2016 WPT L.A. Poker Classic for $238,070; 6th, 2014 WPT Borgata Winter Poker Open for $174,352; 6th, 2016 WPT Borgata Poker Open for $167,942

The definition of a “major title” varies depending on certain points of view, and there’s no denying Farid Jattin has had success on almost every live poker stage there is. But when it comes to WPT titles and WSOP bracelets, Jattin has gotten close on numerous occasions only to fall a hair shy of victory.

Jattin has his fourth significant chance at a WPT title on Wednesday, and he enters nine-handed play with both the most career earnings of every remaining player and the most experience when it comes to major events.

On the last hand of the night, with the field already reduced to nine, Jattin claimed a pot from Dan Sepiol worth over 1.5 million chips – more than the number of chips in any stack excluding the top three heading into the final table – to slide into the top spot as chips went into bags at the end of Day 2.

“A very important pot, and it switches momentum a bit in my favor,” Jattin said. “Luckily it worked out. I’m looking forward to tomorrow.”

End of Day 1 Chip Count: 278,000 (25/37)

2. Austin Srur | 3,410,000 (85 big blinds)

Age: 26 Hometown:  Sarasota, FL Lifetime Live Tournament Earnings: $772,855 Biggest Lifetime Cash: $249,375, 3rd, 2021 WPTDeepStacks Venetian Main Event Other Prominent Scores:  4th, 2021 MGM Grand Summer Series Grand Finale for $121,495; 10th, 2021 WPT Choctaw for $55,860

While he may not yet have the millions of dollars in live tournament earnings, Austin Srur is in a position to cross into seven-figure territory if he should win WPT Voyage. His biggest career score to date came under a different banner, in a WPT DeepStacks event at the Venetian, and he’s been close to making a WPT Main Tour final table in the past before his breakthrough on Tuesday.

He’ll be playing from a position of strength at this final table, as Srur takes advantage of a stack he built into the chip lead for much of the later stages of Day 2 before Jattin claimed the top spot in the dying embers of play.

Srur had some friendly banter for Sepiol along the way, and suggested with a smile that his primary goal at the start is to keep Sepiol from rebuilding his stack.

“Only one thing I’m worried about, and that’s doubling Dan up,” said Srur. “So as long as Dan stays around that 1.5 million area, I think we’ll be good, cruising  all the way.”

As he stares down the potential of a career-best result on Wednesday, Srur has already had a blast over the course of the first three days of WPT Voyage.

“I’ve been on multiple cruises, and this one, probably by far, is the best experience,” said Srur. “And the tournaments are amazing, it’s so well thought out that I mean, it’s just ridiculous. I’m just having a great time.”

End of Day 1 Chip Count: 494,000 (12/37)

3. Romulo Dorea | 2,000,000 (50 big blinds)

Age: 29 Hometown: Belem, Brazil Lifetime Live Tournament Earnings: $6,197 Biggest Lifetime Cash: $1,969, 6th, 2018 Brazilian Series of Poker R$800 No Breaks No Limit Hold’em

Even if things go completely sideways at the final table of WPT Voyage, Romulo Dorea, has multiplied his career tournament earnings many times over regardless of his finish in this tournament.

But if he can find a way to close it out, Dorea, one of two WPTGlobal ambassadors at the final table, will have some tremendous content to provide his 89,000 followers on Instagram and over 100,000 subscribers on YouTube. While his content is almost exclusively deep-stacked cash games, a WPT title and a $285,000 windfall may well put Dorea in a position to take more shots at tournaments. At the very least, he’d be on his way to Las Vegas in December.

End of Day 1 Chip Count: 428,000 (17/37)

T-4. Aram Oganyan | 1,460,000 (37 big blinds)

Age: 36 Hometown:  Los Angeles, CA Lifetime Live Tournament Earnings: $3,747,548 Biggest Lifetime Cash: $989,501, 3rd, 2024 Triton Super High Roller Series $26,500 Silver Main Event Other Prominent Scores: 1st, 2023 Lucky Hearts Poker Open $25,500 High Roller for $481,175; 2nd, 2023 WSOP $10,000 Secret Bounty for $453,226; 2nd, 2023 WSOP $3,000 No Limit Hold’em for $443,680

The pressure of the WPT Voyage final table is unlikely to be a factor for Aram Oganyan. He’s one of three players among the final nine with seven figures in career live earnings, and even as players were bagging up at the end of the night in the $5,000 Main Tour event, Oganyan was trying to sell the rest of the field on moving the restart time up to make it easier for him to play Wednesday’s $25,000 High Roller event.

While Oganyan was unsuccessful in that endeavor, he’ll certainly be in a position to apply maximum pressure on his opponents as he, too, seeks out his first major title following multiple close calls to this point in his career.

End of Day 1 Chip Count: 544,000 (8/37)

T-4. Dan Sepiol | 1,460,000 (37 big blinds)

Age: 30 Birthplace: Bloomington, IN Hometown: Las Vegas, NV Lifetime Live Tournament Earnings: $6,718,759 Biggest Lifetime Cash: $5,282,954, 1st, 2023 WPT World Championship at Wynn Las Vegas Other Prominent Scores:  1st, 2023 Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open $2,700 No Limit Hold’em for $204,735; 1st, 2021 MSPT Iowa Main Event for $162,781

In the time since Dan Sepiol won the 2023 WPT World Championship at Wynn Las Vegas, he’s won himself a Global Poker Award for his performance at that final table and celebrated his 30th birthday. If Sepiol were to win WPT Voyage, he’d join some rarified air as both a multi-time WPT champion and for having done so in a span of less than four months.

Sepiol got out to a hot start on Day 1, bagging a top-three stack and rarely slowing down over the course of Day 2. He was in a celebratory mood throughout the night on Tuesday, regularly getting up from his seat between hands to chat with friends on the rail, and a victory in the WPT Voyage championship event would give him an even bigger reason to be cheerful.

End of Day 1 Chip Count: 784,000 (3/37)

6. Kasey Lyn Mills | 695,000 (17 big blinds)

Hometown: Frisco, Texas Lifetime Live Tournament Earnings: $310,915 Biggest Lifetime Cash: $66,009, 1st, 2024 WSOP Circuit Choctaw $1,000 Monster Stack Other Prominent Scores:  2nd, 2022 Texas Card House $500K Guaranteed Mystery Bounty for $42,968; 5th, 2023 WSOPC Tulsa Main Event for $35,539; 1st, 2024 WSOPC Choctaw $400 Finale for $22,433

Over the course of 2022 and 2023, Kasey Lyn Mills knocked on the door multiple times, picking up six separate five-figure live cashes. But January 2024 marked Mills taking a major step forward in her poker career, as she won two WSOP Circuit rings at Choctaw Casino Resort in Durant, Oklahoma in a matter of three days.

Mills made another leap on Tuesday, securing her first career WPT final table appearance as she fought through some perilous spots as a short stack.

“I remembered a player that Nick Schulman was talking about on a PokerGo stream lately, and I forget his name right now but he’s always hanging around on the short stack,” said Mills. “You just can’t get rid of the guy, and I was reminding myself I can be that guy, to just make really, really good decisions. I had to do some really interesting things to find my path, and I did.”

With the prospect of becoming just the third woman to add her name to the Mike Sexton WPT Champions Cup, Mills was in a positive mindset at the close of Day 2.

“I don’t even have words to describe it,” said Mills. “I’m feeling just overjoyed, overflowing, so excited. It’s just all energy.”

End of Day 1 Chip Count: 201,000 (27/37)

7. Iman Dan | 680,000 (17 big blinds)

Hometown:  Miami, FL Lifetime Live Tournament Earnings: $205,454 Biggest Lifetime Cash: $70,934, 3rd, 2015 Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open $350 No Limit Hold’em Other Prominent Scores:  2nd, 2015 Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open $570 No Limit Hold’em for $22,840

The vast majority of Iman Dan ‘s best live results have come close to home, with his top three cashes and four of the top five happening at Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood. He’s also recorded results at a handful of WPT-branded stops, including the 2023 WPT Prime Championship.

With a result of fifth or better, Dan would set a new career high-water mark, and a victory would allow Dan to exceed the entirety of his live tournament earnings in a single event.

End of Day 1 Chip Count: 133,000 (33/37)

8. Marcelo Giordano Mendes | 655,000 (16 big blinds)

Age: 32 Hometown: Sao Paulo, Brazil Lifetime Live Tournament Earnings: $432,547 Biggest Lifetime Cash: $55,869, 5th, 2019 WSOP $1,000 Super Turbo Bounty Other Prominent Scores:  2nd, 2022 Kings Series of Poker Sao Paulo Main Event for $28,122

Marcelo Giordano Mendes is one of two Brazilian players who will be wearing a WPT Global patch at Wednesday’s final table, and Giordano is looking to break through at his second career major final table. Back in 2019, Giordano finished fifth in a $1,000 Super Turbo during the World Series of Poker.

He’ll have to fight back from one of the shorter stacks to improve his chances of a WPT title, but it won’t be a new experience in this tournament. He was one of two players, along with Dan, to start Day 2 among the bottom 10 stacks only to fight down to the final nine.

End of Day 1 Chip Count: 167,000 (30/37)

9. Carlo Basurto Romero| 450,000 (11 big blinds)

Age: 29 Hometown: Querétaro, Mexico Lifetime Live Tournament Earnings: ~$50,000

To search the Hendon Mob entry for Carlo Basurto Romero is to find but a single result. But Basurto did not wander his way into the field without experience by any means. The 29-year-old from Mexico is predominantly an online player who has recorded some final tables in Mexico that were not recorded in any of the major poker databases.

End of Day 1 Chip Count: 645,000 (4/37)

Related News

Amidst 20 tournaments, cash games and all manner of hijinks during WPT Voyage, a few of the highlights from the one-of-a-kind poker adventure may have slipped beneath the radar.

Lukas Robinson got the opportunity of a lifetime as part of the cast of Poker After Dark: Game of Gold, and as he continues his dalliance with live poker on WPT Voyage, the online poker streamer has received more attention than expected from fans.

One of poker's fastest rising stars, Caitlin Comeskey has been on a "sun run" lately in two things she is incredibly passionate about and dedicated to: poker and content. Thursday night was no different.

How to Play Trips (As the Preflop Raiser and Caller)

Playing trips can be pretty simple in some situations, but there are some small nuances that you might be missing.

If you are indeed missing those nuances, you have an opportunity to increase your win-rate by learning them. Lucky for you, that’s what this article is for.

Let’s dive in!

Note: I’ll be covering how to play trips on paired boards, such as AJ on a J-J-3 flop. If you want to learn about playing sets (such as 55 on a J-7-5 flop), check out the link in the conclusion.

Not All Trips Are the Same

There is a fundamental distinction between playing trips as the preflop raiser and as the preflop caller.

As the raiser, you typically have the range advantage , which means you should be more aggressive.

As the caller, you typically are at a range disadvantage which means you have to be more passive and, at times, tricky. This is because you do not have the luxury of being able to check and realize equity for free like the in-position player.

Let’s further see how we should approach playing as the raiser on different flops, before moving over to playing them as the caller.

Note: Learn step-by-step how to become the best player at the table when you join the Upswing Lab training course . Elite pros have been adding new content every week for the past four years, and you get all of it when you join. Learn more now!

Trips as the Preflop Raiser

The rank of the paired card on the flop makes a big difference in the way you should construct your strategy.

As the preflop raiser, you will have a bigger range advantage on certain paired boards and a smaller range advantage on others. The size of your advantage should be absolutely crucial to your strategy. Let’s take a look at a few simulations to illustrate this point.

Example 1: 7♠ 7 ♥ 4 ♦

Let’s start with a 7-7-4 rainbow flop. Here is a PioSolver solution for this board (Button and Big Blind in a single raised pot):

On this paired board, the preflop caller actually has the nut advantage . This is because the caller will hold a 7 significantly more often compared to the preflop raiser*. Having fewer trips forces the preflop raiser to play more passively, value betting less thinly and semi-bluffing less often.

*The preflop caller will have trips 6.2% of the time in this spot compared to 4.7% for the preflop raiser. That’s a 32% difference, relatively speaking.

Because of these two aspects, the Button cannot be extremely aggressive, but he still should be betting with the trip hands roughly 90% of the time. He should only check when he has trips with a lower kicker.

Example 2: J♠ J ♥ 5 ♦

Now, let’s take a look at the next flop, J-J-5 rainbow (also Button vs Big Blind):

Here we see that the preflop raiser can be far more aggressive in his approach. This is because:

• He is not at a nut disadvantage on this flop
• He has more combinations of trips compared to the 7-7-4 flop, which means that he can add more semi-bluffs to his range.

In this case, the solver suggests betting the same amount of trips as the 7-7-4 flop — 90% of them. Trips are still checked some of the time to protect the checking range.

Trips as the Preflop Caller

Playing well out of position with a high stack-to-pot ratio is not a walk in the park. Holding trips, however, makes it much simpler because you are holding a very strong hand with which you will want to check-raise for value very frequently. How frequently is a question that the solver has a great answer for!

Let’s take another look at the 7-7-4 rainbow flop, but this time from the Big Blind’s perspective against a small c-bet .

If you look at the 7x hands, you can see that there is a preference to check-raise less frequently with the Ace kicker and also with the low kickers. This makes sense because when you hold the Ace kicker, your opponent is a bit more likely to have an air-ball bluff, and you’d rather that hand continue to bluff or improve to a second-best hand that will pay you off.

The lower kickers also make more sense to go for the check-call more often because they are also unblocking some air-ball hands and you can squeeze some more value from them on the later streets.

Overall, the solver elects to check-raise with these specific combos of trips around 66% of the time, check-calling the rest of the time. This pattern holds true on the vast majority of paired flops. All of the other trips (K7-J7) are check-raised by the solver at a high frequency.

Final Thoughts

The most important takeaways from this article are:

• You need to figure out who is more likely to have trips on the flop given the specific paired card
• If you have a lot of trips (on high paired flops) then you should c-bet at a very high frequency
• When out of position as the preflop caller, you should always split your trips between check-raising and check-calling (but predominantly check-raise)

That’s all for this article! I hope that you enjoyed reading it and that you learned something new! As usual, if you have any questions or feedback please let me know in the comment section down below and I will do my best to reply.

If you want to learn how to play flopped sets next, check out How to Play Flopped Sets in 8 Common Situations .

Till’ next time, good luck, grinders!

Note: Ready to join 6,000+ players currently upgrading their No Limit Hold’em skills? Crush your competition with the expert strategies you will learn inside the Upswing Lab training course. Learn more now!

Related Posts

Bet sizing strategy: 8 rules to help you choose the perfect bet size, big blind defense strategy 101: tournaments vs cash games, 10 cash game poker tips for dominating the table, what are implied odds how to use implied odds like a veteran pro, single-raised pots vs 3-bet pots: how should your strategy differ, limps in poker: the ultimate guide to crushing open limpers, how to snowball your winnings vs bad poker players, 4 gto myths that way too many poker players believe.

Online grinder aspiring to reach the highest stakes and crush the toughest games. I'm available for quick strategy questions and hourly coaching -- reach out to me at [email protected] .

Put Your Skills to the Test with Quick Poker Quizzes!

Sets vs. Trips

By Greg Walker

For a guide to getting the most from hand when you flop either a set or trips, check out this Trips and Sets strategy video by SplitSuit.

If you've been playing poker for long enough, you will have heard of a “full house” being referred to as a “boat” from time to time. It's just another one of those slang terms in poker.

Similarly, you will probably have heard “3-of-a-kind” being referred to as a “set” or “trips”.

However, what you might not know is that “set” and “trips” aren't just nicknames; they actually describe the 2 different ways you can make 3-of-a-kind in Texas Hold'em .

What's the difference between trips and sets?

• Trips = 3-of-a-kind using 1 of your holecards and 2 cards from the board.
• Set = 3-of-a-kind using 2 of your holecards and 1 card from the board.

Sets and trips are the two separate ways of making three of a kind in Texas Hold'em.

So basically, a set is when you make 3-of-a-kind when you're holding a pocket pair .

Odds of hitting trips and sets on the flop.

• Odds of hitting a trips on the flop = 73.2 to 1 (1.35%)
• Odds of hitting a set on the flop = 8.3 to 1 (10.78%)

Note: These odds are for hitting a set or trips exactly , not a set or trips at least .

This information doesn't really add much or lead on to anything in this set vs. trips article , but I thought I'd go ahead and list them here anyway. It's interesting to note that it's 9 times harder to make 3-of-a-kind without a pocket pair on the flop than it is to make 3-of-a-kind with a pocket pair.

The gap between the odds is large because it's obviously much easier to hit 1 card out of 2 than 2 cards out of 3 over three trials (the flop).

Sets win money, trips lose money.

There is a saying in Texas Hold'em that “sets win money and trips lose money”. This isn't a massively popular theorem, nor can I find any articles mentioning it, but it does get thrown about on the odd occasion.

Just like any piece of poker strategy advice that's confined to one line, it's not something that you're going to want to set your watch to. However, this sweeping statement does have enough merit to it to make it worth talking about.

If you like short strategy tidbits, check out these poker theorems .

Here's a quick explanation of why sets are awesome and why trips are its disappointment of a brother.

Why sets win money.

Sets are hidden.

In fairness, even good players will struggle to avoid losing money in a hand like that (in fact, you would be have played too passively if you didn't lose at least 20% of your stack). However, the point is that sets are not always accounted for like pairs, flushes and straights are.

The fact sets are harder to spot means that you can usually expect to win a sizeable amount of your opponent's stack when you make 3-of-a-kind in this way.

Fact: The high implied odds of sets is the reason why it makes calling preflop with small pocket pairs so profitable.

Why trips lose money.

Trips are not hidden.

Bet you didn't see that one coming.

Trips are not necessarily a -EV made hands, but in general trips are far less profitable than sets because they are far easier to spot. Players are more cautious if they have a hand like top pair if the board is paired than if the board isn't paired.

As a result, if an opponent is happy to put lots of money in to the pot on a paired board, they're obviously very happy with the strength of their hand given the circumstances. If you don't have a big kicker to go with your trips, you could well be in trouble.

Obviously a lot depends on the type of player you're up against and your history (see poker metagame ), but in general you should be able to see why trips aren't as effective at extracting money from opponents like sets are. You should also be able to see how getting stuck with the second best 3 of a kind hand can prove to be costly.

Sets are ninjas. Trips are liabilities.

Sets and trips in poker conclusion.

• A set is when you make 3 of a kind when you hold a pocket pair. They are great for making money.
• Trips is when you make 3 of a kind when you don't hold a pocket pair, which means the board needs to pair instead. They are generally not as cool/profitable as sets.

If you talking to someone about strategy or about a specific hand history, you should avoid saying “three of a kind” when referring to a made hand. “Three of a kind” could mean either a set or trips, and both of these can have a drastic effect on the way a hand is played, so be specific and say what type of 3-of-a-kind instead.

I think that just about covers everything about trips and sets in poker (or the most important stuff at least).

This has turned in to quite a lengthy article considering I only intended to explain the subtle difference between two commonly used terms to describe 3-of-a-kind, so I'll wrap it up here. Hopefully you learnt a little something extra on the way.

Even if you didn't, at least you have something new to correct people on when they get out of line and start to use “set” and “trips” interchangeably on poker forums.

Go back to the interesting Texas Hold'em Articles .

Can You Afford Not To Use Poker Tracker 4?

“I wouldn’t play another session of online poker without it”

“I play $25NL, and in under 1 week PT4 had paid for itself”

Ready To Play?

SwC Poker is my favourite room to play at. It has the worst players you can find online right now. You need to get some bitcoin to play here, but it's worth it.

• BEST POKER TRAINING SITES
• How To Play Poker – A Guide to Basic Poker Rules
• How to Play Texas Hold’em – Master the Rules
• Pot Odds In Poker – Master The Numbers
• Top 10 Poker Strategy Tips From the Pros – A Complete Guide
• Poker Statistics – Learn How To Master the Math at the Tables
• Draw Games Guide
• Flop Games Guide
• Stud Games Guide
• A GUIDE TO CASINO BONUSES
• ONLINE POKER PAYMENTS
• POKER NOTES LIVE APP
• A BEGINNERS GUIDE TO SPORTS BETTING FOR POKER PLAYERS
• BEST POKER SOFTWARE
• How to Run a Successful Charity Poker Event
• Poker Books: A Proven Way to Improve Your Game
• POKER VACATIONS
• THEPOGG’S CASINO GAMBLING FAQ
• POKER AFFILIATE GUIDE FOR MAKING MONEY 2024

The Great American Poker Trip: Biloxi

Welcome to stop number five on the Great American Poker Trip. If you are just joining us, my name is Jack Laskey and I’m a co-host of the Just Hands Poker Podcast. My co-host (and fellow Cardplayer Lifestyle contributor) Zach Resnick and I threw some stuff in a car and are taking a road trip across America playing poker and seeing the country. Here, I am recounting highlights from the trip and taking a deeper look at the poker culture I’ve experienced throughout my journey. Last week we were in Tallahassee , and now we are in Biloxi, Mississippi.

My hotel evaluation process for poker trips takes in three important factors; distance from the casino, price, and risk of bed bugs. It’s a minimization operation at its finest. In my search, I noticed, but did not give that much thought to the fact, that all of the casinos in Biloxi were located on a small strip-like island in the Gulf of Mexico just south of the mainland. As I journeyed from my likely bed-bug-free AirBnB across a long bridge to this island of casinos, the nature of this sturdy sandbar suddenly became extremely apparent.

Unknowingly, I’d stumbled upon the Southern gambler’s Mecca. This was a glowing (literally) bastion of class and degeneracy. Towering, glorious casino hotels were flanked by 24-hour fast food spots, dingy strip-clubs, and tiny beaches that were more for show than for swim. This was Vegas on the beach with breathing room and some cheap eats. Who knew?! Well, probably a lot of people, but not me and not many of my Yankee pals, many of whom were similarly ignorant of the existence of this fine gaming outpost. This discovery gave me a renewed sense of vigor, both on my current journey as well as for future explorations.

Beau Rivage

Back in Tallahassee I received some fervent advice to take my poker talents to the Beau Rivage. I was warned that the games weren’t what they used to be (never heard that one before…), but that the action was still excellent on the weekends. Luckily, it was Friday night, and the Beau Rivage poker room was bumping. After weeks in the dingy racetrack/card rooms of Florida, it was revitalizing to be in an over-the-top elegant establishment. The crowd was much more reminiscent of Vegas than a local casino. People were dressed to impress, likely engaging in some combination of gaming and partying rather than the drink/smoke/pull-the-lever grind. I was pumped, and not just from the artificial daylight.

After a brief buzzkill upon discovering that of the 10 or so poker tables running only one was $2/$5, I was given an exciting piece of news: all of the games at the Beau Rivage are uncapped. In the past, any uncapped game I’d found myself in was too big for me to take advantage of potential starting stack-depths. At $1/$3 or $2/$5, it’s a different story. Greater stack-depths often magnify the mistakes of amateur players. Price insensitivity is a rampant and expensive quality. It had been a while since I was this thrilled to sit in a $1/$3 game while I waited for $2/$5.

Cultural Snapshot

As excited as I was about the uncapped $1/$3, it didn’t take long for the floor to come by and whisk me away to $2/$5. Sitting down at $2/$5 at Beau Rivage was simultaneously the closest and farthest I’ve ever felt to being at home in a new casino. The alien qualities of this game were to be expected. I was greeted by one of the classiest old-school Southern accents there is by the archetypal Southern gentleman. A conversation that did not include me quickly revealed the cunning and ruthless businessman underneath the sophisticated exterior, a predictable alter-ego in this environment. The long and short of the matter was hiding oil money offshore and retreating underneath the “ignorant Southern guise” when confronted by the national authorities. “What would a good ol’ boy from the South know about Lichtenstein?” While the occupation and the dialect differed, it just goes to show the entrepreneurial spirit of the poker player.

So you may be asking yourself, how could I have felt so at home playing with oil barons in an uncapped poker game a few hundred yards south of the Gulf Coast. Simple, I knew everyone! OK, I didn’t know everyone , but I knew 3 out of 8 players in the game. I was utterly shocked to see so many familiar faces, and they were shocked to see me. A guy I’d played with in $5/$10 at the Palm Beach Kennel Club immediately greeted me. Playing together in two poker games separated by 700 miles in the same week served as an impetus for us to make more formal introductions. In time, I reacquainted myself with my other chums, one of whom was a particularly prickly pro who actually remembered some of the needles he used to unsettle me over a year ago at Maryland Live! The other was a rec player who I played with at my single $2/$5 table my one night at the MGM National Harbor the first night of the road trip . I’d even go on to run into one of the other players again in New Orleans a day later. Like I said, I’d stumbled upon a Southern gambling Mecca. This familiarity allowed me to settle right into what was clearly a game among good friends.

Among those good friends was a man often referred to as “the assassin.” He was a special-ops soldier whittling away at the time before his next tour at the poker table. His biggest concern was clearly not the money in front of him, but whether or not he would be able to find a life-insurer who would sell him a policy. We got to talking as a table about the pros and cons of the uncapped game. Given the stacks at this $2/$5 game, it was clear that everyone was more than partial to the possibilities brought on by an uncapped game. Playing devil’s advocate, I mentioned that the cap can often serve to make players more comfortable sitting down in a game. There might be more than one $2/$5 game in this very room, in fact, if there was a $500 or $1,000 cap. The assassin, a few Crown Royals in, made short work of this theory. “As far as I’m concerned,” he began, “poker is supposed to be a bunch of rich guys from Texas with guns sitting around a table smoking, drinking, and gambling for as much money as they have to their name.” For mostly positive reasons, the game of poker does not much resemble this ideal. Still, I found it very humbling to embrace this nostalgia for the poker of old that neither myself nor the assassin had ever experienced or would likely ever experience.

The Metrics

Game Selection: 5/10

I saw a PLO list, but you will very likely be playing Hold’em at the Beau Rivage. Also, on Friday and Saturday night there was only one $2/$5 game running at any given time.

Game Quality: 8/10

If you like being able to put as much money on the table as you can, this is the casino for you. The ease of deep-stacked play makes the games more fun and more profitable. The $2/$5 game is far from the softest around, but when the fish can put down as much on the table as they’d like, the possibilities are tantalizing.

Table Atmosphere: 10/10

I’m biased here, but playing two nights at the Beau Rivage was the closest feeling to a home game that I had felt on the entire trip. By my second night, people were greeting me by name asking about my day at the New Orleans jazz-fest. I met a bunch of cool people that I could never encounter in any other circumstance.

Service/Amenities: 10/10

Service at the Beau Rivage was excellent. Both nights I was there I could not find my M-Life card and a chip-runner happily waited in line for me at the membership desk. Also, the dealers here are hilarious. They are extremely sassy and elevate the mood of the game.

Location/Facility: 9/10

Getting in and out of the Beau Rivage was extremely easy. It’s really a gorgeous site seeing all of these casino-hotels coming over the bridge from the mainland with the Gulf of Mexico as the backdrop. The interior is similarly stunning. The only issues for me are that much of the casino allows for smoking and that there is an extremely loud dance bar right next to the poker room.

Overall: 8.5/10

If you are a poker player and you have never played in the South, make a trip to Biloxi and play at the Beau Rivage. It’s like going to Vegas with half the number of drunk people and twice the amount of beachfront, a worthy trade-off .

This article is brought to you with the help of Upswing Poker . We at Cardplayer Lifestyle would like to thank them so much for their support, and we encourage you to check out their site.

LIKE THIS STORY? GET OUR BEST ONES IN YOUR INBOX EACH MONTH!

Jack Laskey

Jack Laskey is a New York City-based jazz musician currently supporting himself by playing and coaching poker. He plays in private games in NYC and other East Coast hotspots, usually for stakes ranging from $2/$5 to $5/$10 NLH, as well as the occasional juicy PLO game. While poker isn’t his life pursuit, it has been […]

Join The Discussion Cancel Repy

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Latest Post

Don’t miss our top stories, exclusive offers and giveaways!

This game contains material that is only suitable for adults. If you are under the age of 18, please leave now.

Strip Poker Night at the Inventory is a free, open source, and community run project. All characters represented within are 18+ and the property of their original owners.

The latest version of the game can be played at spnati.net .

Make sure to check out our list of Frequently-Asked Questions !

By default, we collect some basic statistics about how this game is played. This can be configured in the settings menu .

By clicking the button below, you are confirming that you are an adult and such material is legal in your region.

Strip Poker Night at the Inventory (“SPNATI”) is a non-profit, user-driven, online collaborative project. Some characters and scenes contained within SPNATI may use or reference copyrighted material. Any and all such references to copyrighted material are protected by the “Fair Use” exception described in 17 U.S.C. § 107. The use of these materials is (1) exclusively noncommercial, (2) intended solely as parody, and not as an attempt to substitute for the materials in their respective works; (3) transformative and restricted only to such use as is necessary to render the materials recognizable for the purpose of parody; and (4) engenders no competition with the market for the original works. No attempt is made to infringe upon the copyright of or derive profit from the copyrighted material of another.

Additionally, the content other than source code or basic programming of SPNATI is generated by individual users, and the creators and maintainers of SPNATI and any affiliated websites are not directly responsible for content created by users that is hosted on those websites. Contributing users receive no compensation for their work, and are not employed in any capacity by SPNATI.

In the event a copyright holder believes their rights are being infringed upon by material in SPNATI, its creators respectfully request that the holder contact them directly regarding the offending material, and the creators will take all steps possible to remove the offending material.

We'd like to collect additional information about how you approach the game, such as your player tags, size, and clothing.

This is completely anonymous, and will help us write dialogue that's better tailored to your preferences.

• Recently Updated
• Most Layers
• Fewest Layers
• Unique Line Count
• Source (A-Z)
• Source (Z-A)
• Talked to by selected

Description:

(you haven't unlocked this deck yet.), search options, are you sure you want to return to the title screen, select an article of clothing to remove, backgrounds, collectible obtained, dialogue transcript.

Click on any line of dialogue to re-view it in-game.

Submit an Issue Report

• Copy the Issue Report Data above into a text-sharing service such as Pastebin or Gist .
• Submit your issue report (with the Data above!) to the developers on our subreddit, /r/spnati or through our Discord server .

Submit Character Feedback

Voice your thoughts on a character here.

Please remember that behind every character, there are human creators hard at work. Be nice!

Also, if you would like to report a specific problem with a character, please send a bug report instead.

Message from 's creator(s):

Feedback is disabled for this character. their creator(s) may not be able to see your comments., roster re-sort, the roster re-sort is now live.

This re-sort poll will help determine the order of characters on the character roster for the following months. Higher-voted characters will be placed closer to the top of the roster!

Now is your chance to help your favorite characters rise to prominence!

You can vote in the Re-Sort poll here:

FAQ - General

Who made this game.

Strip Poker Night at the Inventory (SPNatI) was first developed by Joseph Kantel, who designed a small Javascript mockup game based on a choose-your-own-adventure fanfiction work on writing.com. The original version of the project appeared in August 2015 featuring the four video game characters Lara Croft (Tomb Raider), Zoey (Left 4 Dead), Lilith (Borderlands), and Elizabeth Comstock (BioShock Infinite), who were the girls featured in the fanfiction story.

The project died out, but it was rediscovered in August 2016 and exploded in popularity, with new characters being added and the community you see today being formed. To date, over 200 characters (in various states of completion) have been made for SPNatI.

What does "At the Inventory" mean?

"The Inventory" is the name of a fictional bar that SPNatI takes place in. The name itself comes from SPNatI's other inspiration, Poker Night at the Inventory--a series of two games by TellTale wherein a nameless player plays Texas Hold 'Em Poker with four video game/webcomic characters and watches them interact.

Did Joseph Kantel make all the characters?

Not at all! SPNatI is an open-source game, and over 130 different people have contributed to not only the creation of its many characters, but also its codebase, community, moderation, hosting, documentation, background art, etc. You can see who's credited for a character by clicking the "Credits" button on the character selection screen.

Anyone can make a character and add them to SPNatI, so if you don't see your favorite character, you should try to make them yourself!

How often is the game updated?

Because each author is responsible for their own characters, the game receives multiple small and large updates almost every day! The Discord servers have a channel, #game-updates, that lists the full changelog, as well as #dev-updates, which lists updates that have not been pushed to the live game yet.

However, not all characters have authors that still actively update them. Consider adopting one of these orphaned characters!

Can I donate to the game via a Patreon or something similar?

Nope! SPNatI has remained, and will always remain, separate from any issues of money besides the small amount needed to host the spnati.net domain. There will never be any advertisements or sponsors, nor the need to support the game financially in any way. This keeps the game free of copyright concerns.

If Lara, Zoey, Lilith, and Elizabeth were the first characters made, why aren't they the first on the list?

Every few months, the character roster is reshuffled based on the results of polls held on the SPNatI subreddit, r/spnati. This gives newer characters the chance to move from the back of the roster and be in the spotlight, and the order is determined by factoring in both how many votes each character received in the poll and how many total lines of dialogue each character has. More details about the methodology used can be found in the posts announcing each re-sort.

One male is always included on the first row to let players know that male characters exist, and characters that share a franchise are grouped together if their scores are close.

Is it open-source? Where are the game's files?

Yes! The game is completely open-source, with all of its files available to view and download. You can find the file repository on GitGud:

https://gitgud.io/spnati/spnati

FAQ - Character Creation

How can i make a character for the game.

Making a character for SPNatI requires no prior artistic skills or knowledge of coding.

The art for characters, which includes their model and the poses that make up their sprites, is made in a Japanese paper doll program called Kisekae, which is based on the K-On anime art style and was developed by a user named Pochi. Kisekae has both an online and offline version; the offline version is the one used with other SPNatI character creation software to make sprites. Pochi continues to update Kisekae with new features to this day.

Many characters' sprites also utilize image editing and other forms of post-processing, such as Photoshop. Additionally, to save file space, character sprites are compressed using a web tool known as TinyPNG.

A character's dialogue, mechanics, metadata/information, and pose-to-line assignments are found in their "behaviour.xml" files, which are essentially text documents. Creating a .xml file can be done by using the SPNatI Character Editor program ("CE") to write dialogue. The CE also has built-in support for converting Kisekae scenes ("codes") into character sprites, which would otherwise have to be done manually.

SPNatI offers comprehesive documentation on our tools, features, and policy in our Official Docs Repo. We highly recommend any new devs start here:

https://spnati.net/docs/

For advice and feedback on how best to make your character, try interacting with other users on the official subreddit and Discord servers:

• https://www.reddit.com/r/spnati/

https://www.reddit.com/r/spnati/comments/l0wal1/suggestion_and_discussion_thread/

The majority of community and development discussion takes place on the Discord servers, while the subreddit is the site of official requests for character entry into the game. You can find links to the Discord servers in the suggestion thread.

The following is a Google Doc containing documentation on all the contributors, characters, works-in-progress, and other information of SPNatI. It is community-run/maintained and completely unofficial; none of the moderators for SPNatI have editing privileges, and being listed on it is not a rite-of-passage.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRejQBHSnenImBLUEX5qlmxdopG0c_O9uWklerYr6v5yJ00_UUcQiOvqC6t6CUeKsRAkd2769YzA67P/pubhtml#

Are there any rules about what characters can be in the game?

Yes, but only a few. You can read the official rules page here:

https://spnati.net/docs/policy/rules.html

What happens after I make a character? How do they get into the game?

Once you think your character is ready, you can submit their files either as a .zip file to the moderation team on the subreddit or, for a more elegant long-term approach, make a merge request on GitGud (if you know how to do this).

If your character meets basic requirements (obeys the rules; 300 total lines of dialogue, some of which are targeted or have other conditions; and a set of working images for their sprites), then they will enter what's called the "Testing Tables," which you can see via the Testing Tables button on the character select screen. You can check how many lines a character has via the CE or the ingame credits.

Once on testing, people can play your character online and download their files as part of the overall game, as well as give feedback through bug/feedback reports (the triangle icon ingame), the subreddit, and the Discord servers. One user cannot have more than two characters on testing at once.

When you feel your character is ready for the main roster (and they have at least 500 lines of dialogue), you can make a post on the subreddit asking for people to "sponsor" them. If at least five people reply with approval and/or feedback that you then address, a mod will put your character through QA, which is a basic test to make sure they function properly. Pass that, and you will have made a character for SPNatI's main roster!

More information on Testing and Sponsorship is available in the Docs Repo linked above.

Why did X get moved to the Testing Tables?

Sometimes main-roster characters are moved back to testing (and must be sponsored again) for certain updates made to them. These updates usually consist of either:

• A substantial dialogue/art update by someone other than the original writer(s)/artist(s) of the character.
• An art update by their original artist(s) that is substantial enough to change something significant about the character, such as their model's silhouette or the majority of their poses/expressions/mechanics.

(b) is usually more up to moderator discretion as far as whether they go back to testing or not; art updates are often put up for a "quickpass" vote among developers to skip this process if they feel it is unnecessary.

Characters looking for re-sponsorship only need 3 sponsors instead of the normal 5.

FAQ - Gameplay

How do i play poker.

SPNatI uses a simplified version of Five-Card Draw Poker where there is no betting. Instead, whoever has the worst hand each round is the loser and must strip.

To learn which poker hands beat which, see the graphic below. Try using Card Suggest in the options menu for the game to exchange cards for you, but be aware that this is imperfect by design. The best strategy is usually to aim for pairs: keep the ones you have, or just keep the highest card you have if you have no pairs, and exchange the rest.

Remember, your goal is not to have the best hand--only to not have the worst hand.

Is there a way to win every time?

No. Poker is a game of chance, and your luck can turn around at any moment. The best way to win is to wear more clothing and pick opponents who wear less clothing. Otherwise, you are on an even playing field with the computer opponents. The characters themselves each have different levels of intelligence, but they are at the mercy of luck as much as you are.

However, if you are playing offline, then you can cheat by enabling debug mode in config.xml . Pressing Q in a game will then allow you to select which character loses the round by clicking the "X" next to their name.

And remember: even if you lose, all but one of your opponents will still end up naked anyway. In fact, they all might!

What is the triangle icon with the exclamation point for?

Clicking that icon will bring up SPNatI's built-in bug report feature, which allows you to send detailed bug reports directly to the corresponding Discord channel. Using it on the main menu allows you to report general game issues; using it during a game allows you to do the same, or also note specific character issues (typos, broken images, etc.) This is especially useful for characters on the testing tables!

Bug reports for characters come with extra information such as the table you're playing on, what layer of clothing everyone is down to, and what's going on in the game. This includes the current text for the character in question, so you don't need to copy/paste their entire line just to report a typo.

I heard that you can input cheat codes using the bug reporter. Is this true?

No. The bug reporter is only for reporting bugs. Spamming it will only result in reports from your IP being muted.

If you want to cheat, download and play the offline version of SPNATI and change settings in config.xml , such as debug mode.

Also, please do not use the bug reporter to role-play with the characters. Again, you will be muted, and the reports are publically readable. You will be mocked.

Are there hotkeys for SPNatI?

Yes, and they are as follows:

Game Hotkeys

• Space key: "Next"
• 1: Select card 1
• 2: Select card 2
• 3: Select card 3
• 4: Select card 4
• 5: Select card 5
• Q: Open Debug Screen
• T: Show/Hide UI

When picking what to strip

• Space key: Strip Selected
• 1: Select item 1
• 2: Select item 2
• 3: Select item 3
• 4: Select item 4
• 5: Select item 5
• 6: Select item 6
• 7: Select item 7
• 8: Select item 8

Select Screen Hotkeys

• Left arrow: Back
• Right arrow: Next
• Enter Key: Select Group

FAQ - Endings

How do i unlock endings who has an ending.

You unlock endings by winning the game against one or more characters with an ending, i.e. being the only one who doesn't have to masturbate. You can then select which character's ending you'd like to view, and your selection is then unlocked in the gallery.

However, not all characters have endings. Those that do have a big yellow "SPNatI Epilogue Available" badge near their head on the Character Selection Screen.

It says a character has an ending, but they don't.

Check their ending's entry in the gallery (the trophy icon on the main menu) or their entry on the character select scren for hints. Some endings require more conditions than simply winning the game against the character, such as being a certain gender or playing with them and another character present.

My endings aren't saving. Why?

This is a known issue that has no consistent fix at the moment. Try enabling cookies, clearing cache, and avoid using incognito mode while playing the game.

If all else fails, changing certain settings in config.xml can unlock all endings instantly or activate debug mode in the offline version of SPNatI.

FAQ - Offline and Rehosted Game Versions

Where did x go they used to be in the game..

The consequence of avoiding money is that SPNatI is limited to free hosting space, which had been 1 GB on past hosts like GitLab. The total data of all the characters submitted to the game exceeds this, so characters were removed from the online version of the game every so often to make room for new ones.

However, you can still play with the removed characters by downloading and playing the offline version of SPNATI.

The criteria for which characters got removed has changed over time. In the past, whichever character had the fewest unique lines of dialogue was removed whenever more space was necessary. This ended when all online characters had more than 500 lines of dialogue. Several popularity polls have also been held on the subreddit, and those characters with the fewest votes were also prioritized when it came time for removal.

At present, culling is not used for online characters because of additional space present on our current host. However, if a character on testing does not receive an update in over a month, they will be removed (testing characters also take up online space).

Why does the game have different numbers of characters on different sites, even with the same version number?

Versions of SPNatI with more characters tend to be rehosted versions on proprietary porn sites. While spnati.net uses free hosting space, many porn sites that rehost it pay for their own server space through advertisements, so they can afford to host all of the characters online.

However, rehosted versions are slow to update, meaning brand-new characters and bugfixes might not be present there. spnati.net is the official version of the game and will always be the most up-to-date (including changes to this FAQ), and you can still download the offline version to play with the older and incomplete characters. The version number is updated manually, usually every few days, but updates to the game itself come more frequently.

Can you put X in the game?

You can request that certain characters be made on the Discord servers or the following discussion thread:

However, because of the time and effort making a character requires, you are unlikely to find someone willing to make a complete character for you. Instead, you should ask if someone is interested in making a character and offer to do it yourself or to help them with part of the process, such as doing the art or dialogue.

Remember: you don't need artistic or coding skills to make a character. Don't be afraid to try and do it yourself!

Can I download the game?

You can download bundles for the offline version from here:

https://spnati.net/bundles/download-bundles.html

Follow the instructions on that page to download and set up the offline version. This will allow you to download the entire game and all its files; note that this is a several-GB download thanks to all the character sprites!

Extract all the files, and you'll have offline SPNatI. Opening config.xml in the main folder (use Notepad) will allow you to change some settings, such as enabling debug mode and unlocking all endings. Open index.html in your browser to play the game!

The tools folder of offline SPNATI is where you can find offline Kisekae and the Character Editor.

Opening the offline version didn't work. Why?

Did you download the game directly from GitGud? If so, you need to download the game from our bundles page instead.

If you used Git to clone our repository, make sure you have Git LFS installed, or a client that has LFS support like Github Desktop.

You can find a guide for playing the offline version here: https://spnati.net/docs/basics/playingoffline.html

It's also possible you forgot to extract the game files from the .zip you downloaded.

How do I keep my offline version updated?

You can do this very easily without redownloading the game every time. Follow the instructions here:

https://spnati.net/docs/basics/githubdesktop.html

Can I play the offline version on mobile?

Unfortunately, no. There is no way to play the offline version on mobile at this time. SPNatI is primarily built for computer use, and its mobile version is a straight port.

Can you make a mobile app?

There are no plans to make a mobile app for SPNatI at this time, and because of copyright reasons, certainly not one that would appear in any official app stores.

FAQ - Common Issues

Why isn't x loading.

Are you playing on mobile? Some characters' behavior files are very large, and your phone may be unable to process them. Try playing on a computer instead.

Why doesn't the offline version show all the characters?

Characters come in several designations: "online" for characters on the online main roster at spnati.net, "testing" for characters on the online testing tables, "offline" for characters that used to be on the online main roster but were removed for space, and "incomplete." "Incomplete" is for characters who were submitted to testing but fell off due to lack of updates or author request, and it is used regardless of their quality or actual "completeness." Also included are "event" characters for seasonal events (usually April Fool's Day characters) and "duplicate" characters that have been superseded by newer and better versions.

Incomplete characters are not by default available offline, even though they are included in the offline version download. To use them, open config.xml and copy/paste the following line of code with the others like it:

<include-status>incomplete</include-status>

"Duplicate" characters are also hidden by default. They can be enabled in a similar manner to incomplete characters:

<include-status>duplicate</include-status>

You can also activate alternate costumes to be selectable offline using config.xml. These are different skins for characters that are usually holiday-themed.

My characters/text/game started glitching out. What's going on?

Are you playing with Monika from Doki Doki Literature Club? Monika uses special code in her behavior files to achieve these effects deliberately, much like in her source material. These effects can be turned off in the Options menu.

I clicked the triangle icon Monika mentioned and sent a report, but nothing happened.

That icon is for the ingame bug report feature, which only has the function of submitting bug reports. She means the triangle icon that appears in her speech bubble.

FAQ - Commonly Requested Features

Can i give the player character more details than penis/breast size and clothes.

Yes, you can! The icon to the right of the "Enter the Inventory" button on the player clothing selection screen will bring up the list of tags that is used for the characters. You can choose these to apply to the player, as well, and characters will treat you as if you have those attributes.

Keep in mind that this is a more recent feature, so many characters do not have dialogue tailored for it.

Can I see the player character?

Unfortunately, the many combinations of clothing and stripping orders the player has makes the image space necessary for this unfeasibly large. There is also no space on the UI to show the player character.

Most developers for SPNatI will encourage you to simply use your imagination, or to strip along in real life. SPNatI is built around watching crossover characters interact, not detailed role-playing.

You can always make yourself in Kisekae and/or for SPNatI if you really want to--you just can't submit them to the online version of the game. No real people.

Can I play as one of the characters?

You can name yourself after them, but the other characters will still treat you as the player. This is because dialogue is coded to reference character folders, not their names.

Lots of targeted dialogue also assumes the responses of the computer versions of each character will play, so the role-play would not make much sense anyway.

Can you add voice acting or background music?

Unfortunately, the audio files needed for music and voice acting would take up even more of SPNatI's limited space than the sprites do. Since the game is silent, however, you can always play your own music.

Can you make the models 3D?

No. This would require even more file space and a completely different art program and interface, and likely a steeper learning curve.

Can you add multiplayer?

No. SPNatI is meant to be a single-player experience.

Can you add trans/nonbinary support? (e.g. selecting pronouns)

Unfortunately, SPNatI is hardcoded to link sex and gender, and has been since its earliest versions. This means that years of content, and hundreds of characters, are now written and structured with this link in mind and would require substantial revision. You're free to suggest solutions, but people have tried to no avail.

The game is cheating! It's rigged to make me lose at the end.

No, it isn't. What's happening is that there are fewer opponents remaining, so it's more likely that you have the worst hand in the group. Besides, winning doesn't do much, anyway.

What happened to the Swimsuit Edition?

The Swimsuit Edition was an unofficial offshoot of SPNatI. The users maintaining it have since left the community and let it become defunct, and there is little interest in reviving it among the current developers.

If you'd like to see the Swimsuit Edition return, consider making it yourself!

Legal Information

The mit license (mit).

Copyright (c) 2015 The SPNATI Contributors

Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this software and associated documentation files (the "Software"), to deal in the Software without restriction, including without limitation the rights to use, copy, modify, merge, publish, distribute, sublicense, and/or sell copies of the Software, and to permit persons to whom the Software is furnished to do so, subject to the following conditions:

The above copyright notice and this permission notice shall be included in all copies or substantial portions of the Software.

THE SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED "AS IS", WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NONINFRINGEMENT. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE AUTHORS OR COPYRIGHT HOLDERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY CLAIM, DAMAGES OR OTHER LIABILITY, WHETHER IN AN ACTION OF CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE, ARISING FROM, OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE SOFTWARE OR THE USE OR OTHER DEALINGS IN THE SOFTWARE.

For Contributors:

The vast majority of open-source software, by default, operates on "inbound = outbound" licensing: in other words, one license covers both "inbound" licensing (from contributors to the project), and "outbound" licensing (from the project back to contributors and users).

SPNATI also operates by this rule: by submitting contributions to SPNATI, you implicitly agree to make your contributions publically available to us under the MIT License, posted above.

Join the official SPNatI servers to talk about your favorite characters, or to help create your own!

By joining these servers, you are confirming that you are over the age of 18.

Looking for Someone?

If you're looking for a character who seems to have disappeared, they may have been moved offline or onto the Testing Tables.

For more information, check out our FAQ .

Offline Version Incorrectly Set Up

Unfortunately, your copy of the offline version seems to have been incorrectly set up. The game won't be able to function properly in this state.

Cannot Load Core Game Data

Something seems to be preventing the game from loading core data files it needs. This is often caused by browser security measures preventing the game from loading data.

Suggested Solutions:

• Try running the game using the provided start-offline program, located in the SPNATI directory, or use the Firefox in-browser workaround.
• Instructions for both methods are available in this guide.
• If you're on Chrome, try using this extension: Web Server for Chrome

Cannot Load Game Images

The images the game needs haven't been properly set up yet. This usually happens if you try to download the game directly from our repository host.

• Download the game using our bundle system . You can extract those bundles directly into this copy of SPNATI.
• If you're using Git to download the game, make sure that Git LFS is properly installed on your system. Afterwards, you can run git lfs pull or re-clone to get the correct images.

However, if you're sure you've set everything up correctly, you can try to go ahead anyways.

If anything is broken from here on out, though, that's on you.

Version Details

Add descriptive tags to your character for a more customized experience, *there is still no graphical representation of your character, this just allows characters who have dialogue written towards these traits to know more about you when commenting. not all characters will comment., save or restore your progress, when playing in incognito mode, your progress will not be preserved upon closing the browser. copy the code below to store off your progress for a later session. paste a code into the box and click import to restore your progress., extra characters, privacy settings, character debug info:, current case, persistent markers, regular markers, current tags.

• Help and FAQ
• Character Feedback
• Dialogue Log
• Toggle full screen mode

The game is now over...

Poker in the Wild West: A Lodge Trip Report (Part 1)

It is deeply ironic that the poker game that has captured America’s attention – Texas Hold’em – has long been illegal in Texas. There are no licensed and regulated casinos in Texas, no California-style regulated cardrooms.

But starting a few years ago, a number of “social clubs” devoted to poker have opened across the state. The technical details and legal drama around their operation are discussions for another time. This is merely my trip report to one of those social clubs, The Lodge Poker Club and Card House in Round Rock, Texas. 

Situated just a bit north of Austin, the Lodge is the largest card house in Texas. It has gained some fame by hosting live-streamed high-stakes games featuring massive pots with not-massive hand quality and a player pool whose VPIPs look like solid C- work on a 100-point test. 

But the big shot in the Lodge’s arm came in January of 2022 when high-stakes legend Doug Polk and vlogging heroes Andrew Neeme and Brad Owen teamed up to purchase a significant share of the club . They brought with them Polk’s 160,000 Twitter followers and Andrew and Brad’s half a million YouTube subscribers.

Last week, I made a trip down to Austin to get a look at what all the excitement is about. 

Note that whenever I go to a poker room of any sort, I have two pairs of glasses that I wear simultaneously. One pair is focused on the game itself and my perspective as a poker player. Are people here good at the game? Where do my skills align with theirs? How much do I enjoy the experience? 

The alternate focus comes from more than 30 years as a poker industry insider, and a lover of all things poker. How does this poker room compare to others I’ve seen? What advantages and disadvantages does it have? If I were running the place, what changes, if any, would I make?

The Bellagio, this isn’t

If your public poker experience has been at Las Vegas Strip casinos or similar, then reset your expectations right now. The Lodge is in a strip mall, hard on the shores of I-35 in Round Rock. It’s in a space formerly occupied by a kids’ play center called “PlayMazing,” a fact that I couldn’t begin to make up. And in my first bit of advice to the Lodge management, I argue that changing the branding and room design was a critical mistake. 

But as played, it’s the Lodge (or “Lodge Mahal”). One thing I love is that they retained the high “industrial” ceiling, which makes the room feel bright, open, and airy. With bright light throughout and high ceilings, the effect is the exact opposite of most casinos, and certainly any home game or underground club.

Bright lights, small city

Putting on my “poker industry” glasses, let’s take it from stepping inside the door. You’re at the reception desk where they sign you in and put you on any game waiting lists you want. The gambling loophole in the Texas laws that allows them to operate requires that the customers be members of a social club. So you have to pay a membership fee which can be for a day, a week, or longer. 

Also with my industry glasses on, the Lodge makes excellent use of the Poker Atlas information and queuing system. You can use the app on your phone to get on wait lists and then simply check in–again on your phone–when you arrive. When your seat is ready, you get a text message and go up to the desk to get your table number.

A word to poker rooms across the country and around the world: this level of sign-up and check-in automation is minimal best practice in the year 2022. In a world where you can do your banking, order groceries, or book an airline flight on your phone, you should certainly be able to sign up and check in for a public poker game the same way. 

Everything is bigger in Texas

When you sit down in your game, the dealer will log you into your seat on their table-top tablet (no loyalty card required) and you’re in a poker game that’s like every other poker game you’ve ever been in.

Except bigger. And here’s where my eyes were truly opened. 

In essentially all poker rooms across the U.S. and the world, there’s a rake taken from the pot. Particularly in the smallest games, this has the effect of siphoning off a huge amount of money relative to the chips in play. For instance, in a typical $1/2 game with a $200-300 buy-in cap, the rake removes 1 to 1.5 buyins from the table every hour. Imagine a $1/2 game in which a tough pro sits down, wins $275 in an hour, then gets up and leaves. Their seat is taken by another tough pro, who does the same thing. This continues as long as the game runs. This is exactly what a typical rake does. It has the effect of constantly trimming stacks, and, if the line-up in the game has been fairly static, it’s possible for everybody in the game to be stuck.

Not so in Texas. The moment you take a rake in Texas, you are violating a bunch of laws of which you don’t want to run afoul. So the clubs charge the aforementioned “membership fee” – at the Lodge, it’s $10/hour – which is taken at the desk. Thus chip stacks can grow and thrive, as losers rebuy, but there’s no pro-level rake scooping up 1.5 buy-ins and then leaving once an hour. The total cost to the players is $90/hour, not $250-$300. 

Thus I was surprised and a little shocked to look around the $1/2 tables which have a $300 buy-in cap and see stacks of $800 to $1k or more. The strategic implications of such depth (400-500+ BB) are not the point of this article, but they’re myriad.

Put out the matches

When the Texas card clubs first opened, one of the dear operating principles, presumably brought over from underground games, was “match the stack” (MTS). That is, there is an initial buy-in cap, but the cap floats up with the largest stack at the table. So in a $1/2 game, the initial buy-in cap is $300. But if a player doubles up on the first hand and has a $600 stack, the new buy-in cap is $600. Again, with no rake to dampen the growth, stacks could quickly rocket to Shanghai skyscraper levels, and all-in confrontations often involved multiple thousands of dollars. 

This does not serve the game, the players, or the operators well. 

While it’s fun to win a $2000 pot in a $1/2 game, it’s likely to produce some bad outcomes. Maybe the winner doesn’t want to have $2,000 at risk, so they get up and leave. Maybe the loser, having won more money than they’d ever won in a poker game, goes nuts over losing it all in a single hand, and stomps off, never to return. 

And importantly, those pots are usually going in the direction of the best players, who will take that money and do awful things such as buy refrigerators and pay rent with it. That’s money that the players at the Lodge will never see again.

Fortunately, when the Polk consortium took over, they almost immediately dropped MTS. In the movie Rounders , Matt Damon’s character, Mike McDermott, quotes Amarillo Slim: “You can shear a sheep many times, but skin it only once.” 

It’s a bit mercenary to call the weaker players “sheep,” but the point stands. MTS leans an already tilted playing field further toward the strong players, and heavily so. Polk and his team did a huge service to everybody – yes, even the pros – by dropping MTS. 

Coming up in Part 2:  No nukes–another major change from Polk. & Co. that’s good for the game