Poker has long been a popular game of the skill and strategy involved, but the arrival of the internethas caused the game’s popularity to explode. People can learn the game and, using the demo games available at online casinos or online poker sites, practice before playing cash games.
Technological innovations such as artificial intelligence, which is allowing poker operators to personalize the experience and make online games more challenging, and virtual chat rooms, which allow players to interact with each other, have also helped the game establish itself online.
Then there are the bonuses and promotions available, giving players a chance to get more out of playing poker online. Below are the different types of online poker promotions out there, how players can use them and how promotions, in general, benefit players and online poker operators.
No deposit bonus
The no deposit bonus is one of the most common bonuses offered online. It’s also one players, beginner or experienced, should make the most of. When you create an account with the operator, they’ll provide you with completely free credit for your poker playing. This is a good opportunity to try out different variations of poker or, if you are beginner, practice poker strategies before you play with your own money.
Deposit bonus
Make a deposit and the operator will award you a bonus. This will either be a percentage of your deposit or a flat amount. Some operators are extremely generous and, if it’s a welcome bonus, will match 100% of your deposit up to as much as a $1,000 or more. Although this bonus requires you to credit your account with some of your own money, it’s an opportunity to play for longer and bet with money that isn’t your own.
Rake-back bonus
As a fee for providing the game, poker operators take a scaled commission from the winnings pot. They may also base this on time and collect a fee from players at set intervals during games. If a casino offers a rake-back bonus, they’ll return a certain amount of this rake back to you based on all your rake during the day or on a specific game played over a set time.
This bonus is especially handy because rakes force you to play more tightly. Access to the bonus allows you to play a little more aggressively.
Invite a friend
If you’re already a poker fan and have friends who are poker fans, you can refer them to an operator, and they’ll give you extra credit as a sign of their gratitude. It’s a good opportunity to get some free credit and engage in your passion for poker more.
Exclusive bonuses
These bonuses aren’t available to the public but are to selected players. Normally, thebonuses are for players who take part in a specific event, have signed up to an operator’s site via an affiliate link or promotional code or are part of a loyalty program. Often thebonuses are higher than standard bonuses. They might be a higher rake-back percentage or an increased deposit match of 200% or more.
VIP bonuses
These bonuses are for members of an operator’s loyalty program. Normally, these members will be high rollers who play lots of hands regularly. The bonuses are more generous than regular bonuses. The more hands you play, the better the perks of the program become.
Not only do VIP bonuses include high deposit matches, but also perks such as high rake-backs, tournament tickets and invitations to special events. VIP players also enjoy lower wagering requirements and fewer game restrictions than in the case of standard bonuses.
Why do online casinos and poker operators offer promotions?
The simple answer is that it’s a win-win for both the operators and the players.
Players
• Increased bankroll: Players get to enjoy a boost to their bankroll. The extra credit gives players the chance to play more games and, as a result, more chances to win.
• More playing time: Players can play their favorite variations for longer and not risk their own money.
• Better gaming experience: Players can try out different variations of poker for free and identify which ones are their favorites. In some cases, they even receive access to exclusive games.
Operators
• Appeal to new players: Bonuses provide an excellent way for operators to attract new players to their services. The players can learn about different games without risking their own money.
• Build brand loyalty: Bonuses allow operators to retain existing players that become loyal to the brand and return to the site regularly to use the operator’s services.
• Provision of a good gaming experience: Operators want to offer players the best gaming experience possible. Bonuses help them to do this because they give players the freedom to try new games.
If you like playing poker and want to try online, make the most of bonuses to find out which games you like. If you play lots of hands, you could become a VIP and enjoy even more promotions.
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