Merge, PKR Could Overtake Online Poker Field Over Next Year

Two of the online poker networks that Gambling911.com is keeping a close eye on these days is The Merge Network and PRK.

The former is a clever user-focused platform that is targeting specific demographics.  A perfect example of this would be ReeferPoker.com and its "pot smoking poker community". 

WassPoker.com also focuses on the social networking element of online poker by combining the online experience with live events that take place in such locales as Newcastle, UK.  The WassOnline poker room will offer features that include seeing your cards after you've folded them.  Other special features are being added over the next few weeks.  WassOnline will likely catapult Merge up the ranks being that it began as a gaming community with thousands of members prior to entering the online poker room fray.  Oh and this means you can play online casino games in addition to poker.

Already Merge is starting to make its presence known on PokerSiteScout entering the top 20 networks worldwide but over the next three months, Gambling911.com believes Merge will be flirting with the top 12 rankings. 

Merge is not the only poker group focusing on innovation and marketing these days to expand beyond the usual tournament hoopla.

PKR has delve into the market with an emphasis on cool 3D graphics. 

PKR's unique 'Emote control' technology, combined with a number of other one-of-a-kind game features mean players on PKR can interact and engage with the game and each other in a way that's personal, involving and highly entertaining.

Like Merge, PKR is starting to climb the ranks. Nearly 1000 real cash players were on board over the last 24 hours (that's more than BetFair had).  Also, PKR has been aggressive in recent months with their PR. 

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Christopher Costigan, Gambling911.com Publisher CCostigan@CostiganMedia.com

Originally published May 12, 2008 10:25 am EST