PKR becomes “ambitious”, joins Microgaming’s MPN Poker Network

If you played online poker a decade ago, you surely remember the launch of the world’s first ‘next generation’, 3D online poker room, PKR. Since 2006, the operator has been steadfast in its aspirations to deliver a stand-alone poker product. But as the market expands, and proprietary brands (all except PokerStars) plunge, PKR has finally decided to pursue more “ambitious plans”.

It was announced on Friday that PKR will leave its solitary network behind to join Microgaming’s MPN online poker network. Members of PKR won’t lose their beloved 3D environment, but they will gain a throng of new features and a much larger pool of fish to swim with.

PKR players who’ve been following the site’s blog for awhile had been receiving clues here and there that a big change was coming, but until the deal was finalized, the operator kept tight lipped about the events taking place. On Friday, the PKR’s new CEO since September 2015, Chris Welch, was thrilled to inform the online poker community, “I can finally reveal the news we have been hinting at for some time.

“Later this month we are moving to the Microgaming Poker Network.” He was quick to point out that, “the PKR Poker software will stay exactly as you know it. Just bigger, better and easier to use.”

Changes to PKR on MPN

Welch said that once the shift to MPN takes effect, players will see no change in the website or the way they log into PKR. However, “you’ll see 6 times as many players online, 3 times as many tournaments every day and over €3.5 million in monthly tournament prizes!”

Notice the use of the € (Euro) symbol in his comment? That’s because the long-standing use of the US$ sign will be eradicated to fit MPN’s use of the European currency. Welch noted that the currency change will be “a more suitable currency than dollars for almost all of you”.

The loyalty scheme will be receiving a makeover as well, aligning with MPN’s focus on recreational players. Once the switch occurs, players will have access to the new PKR VIP Poker Club, where Welch promises, “the overwhelming majority of you will be better rewarded than before.”

The recreational-focused system will allow members to change their moniker periodically and grant them access to anonymous tables if they want to “fly under the radar”.

Another new addition to PKR on MPN will be the ability to participate in Instant Play poker – something PKR’s original 3D platform never allowed. Up until now, players were required to download the PKR client for Windows, Mac, Android or iOS, and while those options will still be available, the instant-play version will allow members to play Microgaming’s fast-forward tables, known as Blaze Poker.

Welch said PKR plans to integrate Blaze Poker into its desktop and mobile download clients in the near future.

The CEO extolled the launch of a new My Account and Banking section, which will provide multiple deposit/withdrawal options in 13 currencies. Additionally, he announced the upcoming launch of two new online casino websites, PKR Casino and PKR Vegas, infused with Microgaming’s 800+ array of gambling amusements including over €7 million in jackpots.

Why the Sudden Change After 10 Years?

Welch explained the decision to join MPN as a part of the company’s “ambitious plans” to imbue new life into the online poker community.

“PKR has survived (and sometimes thrived) for 10 years as a stand-alone poker room, but neither our staff, investors nor players are content with ‘survival’, and we have ambitious plans,” he said. Welch promised to offer more information on this month’s transition to MPN this week.