Overview
Poker networks allow players to share games with a group of online poker rooms. This allows the rooms to receive a greater number of players and with the increased traffic comes the ability to run more solid games. In this way, the top poker networks are able to run low and medium stake games throughout the day. The poker rooms in one network are known as skins, largely for their similar layout, graphics and colors. They are not all identical and may offer their own promotions or events, even though they appear similar. There are a number of different poker networks that are available today and these may offer unique features and functions.
Cake Poker Network
The Cake Poker Network was launched in 2006 and has become one of the most popular networks available. It is owned by Cake Gaming NV. It has more than 20 skins, including some big names in online poker such as Cake Poker and InterTops Poker.
Merge Gaming Network
The Merge Gaming Network is a popular network with a large number of well-known quality skins, such as Carbon Poker and Lock Poker. The Merge Network is known for high quality software, an interactive platform and unique features. One of these popular features is the ‘quick start’ feature that allows you to set your table size, limit and game type and finds a game suitable for you without you having to search through the lobby.
Microgaming Poker Network
The Microgaming Poker Network was known as the Prima Poker Network and it includes more than 40 skins, including 32Red Poker, Poker Time and Spin Palace Poker. The skins are all powered by the leader in online gaming software development, Microgaming and offer impressive features and functions. Features that are unique to Microgaming Poker skins include PlayCheck and CashCheck which allow players to keep on top of their play and their betting.
iPoker Network
The iPoker Network was established in 1999 and it is one of the oldest and most reliable poker networks around. It has more than 20 skins with popular names such as Titan Poker, William Hill Poker, Bet365 Poker, Winner Poker and Betfred Poker. The iPoker Network skins are powered by Playtech software and it runs a wide range of promotional offers and events. It tends to be the home of many loose, fishy players, offering plenty of opportunities in the many tournaments that are run.
888 Poker Network
The 888 Poker Network is part of 888 Gaming and is owned by Cassava Enterprises. The skins on the 888 Poker Network offer a wide range of tournaments and promotions. The 888 Poker Network is a small one, but one that offers quality games, promotions and features.