888 Poker might not be a name familiar to the casual fan of online poker in America, but it’s a name that is about to get a whole lot more recognition. In fact, it could turn out to be the most prominent name in American online poker. To understand why 888 Poker is likely to play such a critical role in the United States market for regulated online poker, let’s walk through the company’s current position in the U.S. and then break down what the 888 software has to offer to American online poker players.
Where is 888 licensed to offer online poker and gambling in the US?
Nevada
888 is pursuing a dual track in Nevada. The company has partnered with Caesars to power the online poker room at WSOP.com (click here for a review of WSOP.com). But 888 is also interested in being an operator – not just a software provider – and that’s why they developed a partnership with Treasure Island.
The plan as it stands is for TI to be the first and primary room on 888 Poker’s proprietary American online poker network. Other brands will likely join on in time, but none have been announced as of yet.
New Jersey
New Jersey looks a lot like Nevada from 888’s point of view. The company also has a partnership with Caesars that will ensure they initial access to the market for online poker in New Jersey. But long-term, observers expect that 888 and Caesars will dissolve their partnership, and 888 will need to find a way to secure an operator’s license in the state before they can launch an online poker product under their sole control.
Delaware
888 is in an incredibly strong position in the state of Delaware, as the company – along with partner Scientific Games – was chosen by Delaware officials as the primary vendor for Delaware’s online gambling products. That gives 888 a big edge in the state, which expects to have online gambling up and running before the end of 2013.
