The prestigious and well-known World Series of Poker has given social gaming a new face. One of the better Facebook gaming applications, the WSOP has launched a freeplay Facebook app named Poker Palace, created by Playdom games. The application first began on Facebook and has been expanded to include MySpace poker players.
Although Poker Palace’s WSOP site received mixed player reviews about its entertainment value when it first emerged in August 2010, upgrades to the site, which added new friend finding interfaces, have enhanced the site’s popularity.
Some players continue to post comments about lack of players and empty tables during peak times, format issues, and layout problems. However, despite this, WSOP has managed to draw 500,000 players to date.
The virtual WSOP tries hard to link social gaming to the real world of poker, by offering exciting real contest opportunities to Las Vegas and real cash contest prizes, including seats to the live WSOP.
The free to join downloadable application grants first-timers 6,000 free chips and bonuses. Once in, players can buy into five or nine handed ring games for as little as 400 and up to 8,000. Tournaments begin at 2,000, upwards to 100,000. As is the case with all poker sites, players are awarded play money only.
Players are also offered various bonuses to entice them to sign into their poker accounts daily. In addition, players can earn over 75 achievements as they work towards earning the coveted WSOP bracelet. User boards for all players and well as separate scores on friends lists help players keep track of their stats.
While WSOP can offer serious players crucial practice, the site draws professional players from around the world, making it a less than ideal place for complete beginners.
Chris
- Chris Laquinta is a magazine editor, content specialist and poker fanatic with 10+ years writing experience and over 1,500 published articles. Chris is a naitive of Southern California, where he spent his entire life learning gaming concepts and theories from relatives that had been former professional gamblers. He currently resides in Torrance, CA where he works as a professional content writer and part-time SNG professional.
