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The clock has ticked down at PokerGO Headquarters as the 2024 World Series of Poker (WSOP) is finally here!

The 2024 WSOP will run from May 28 to July 17 with 99 live gold bracelet events, and a select number of online gold bracelet events set to be announced soon. PokerGO will be livestreaming approximately 30 gold bracelet events including the $10,000 buy-in WSOP Main Event to amount to more than 300 hours of livestreams.

USE PROMO CODE WSOP24 FOR $20 OFF FIRST YEAR OF ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION

The WSOP Main Event livestreams will begin on July 3 and run through until a winner is crowned on July 17. The WSOP bracelet event livestreams will begin on May 30 and run through to July 2.

2024 WSOP Bracelet Livestreams

PokerGO has picked out a variety of WSOP bracelet events to livestream this summer. The highlights include the $50,000 Poker Players Championship, $250,000 Super High Roller, $100,000 High Roller, and the $1,000 Mystery Millions where two $1,000,000 mystery bounties can be drawn.

New events being livestreamed by PokerGO include the $5,000 Champions Reunion, $500 WSOP Kickoff, $5,000 Pot-Limit Omaha, $10,000 Big O Championship, and the $1,500 No-Limit Hold’em / Pot-Limit Omaha Double Board Bomb Pot.

WSOP livestream schedule subject to change. Visit www.pokergo.com/schedule for up-to-date WSOP events being livestreamed this summer.

What Have You Missed on PokerGO?

The past two months have been incredibly busy on PokerGO with the U.S. Poker Open and Texas Poker Open wrapping up from the PokerGO Studio and Champions Club Texas, respectively.

Aram Zobian was crowned the U.S. Poker Open champion and awarded the Golden Eagle Trophy and a $25,000 PGT Passport. Ren Lin won the Texas Poker Open Main Event for $400,000.

Following Season 4 of No Gamble, No Future wrapping up in March, Season 12 of High Stakes Poker concluded in mid-May. Your favorite players battled in some of the biggest pots in High Stakes Poker history as Andrew Robl, Santhosh Suvarna, Nik Airball, Phil Laak, Brandon Adams, and Jennifer Tilly weren’t afraid to let the cash fly.

Connect with PokerGO on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Watch daily poker clips on the PokerGO YouTube channel. Join the conversation on the PokerGO Discord server.

The dream of many professional poker players is to compete on the biggest stages, and for many that means playing in the United States. However, the path to achieving this dream is often obstructed by complex immigration barriers. These challenges can prevent talented players from showcasing their skills in high-stakes tournaments, thus limiting their potential and growth. Fortunately, Sherrod Sports Visas offers a solution through specialized poker visas, including the P-1, O-1, and EB-1A visas.

The Challenge: Dealing with US Immigration Barriers

For professional poker players, the journey to compete in the U.S. is fraught with immigration challenges. Obtaining the right visa is crucial, but the process can be daunting. Many players face issues such as:

1. Not Understanding Visa Requirements

• Knowing which visa is more accurate to your specific experience and needs – P-1, O-1, or EB-1A – and meeting the specific criteria for it can be confusing and overwhelming.

2. Lengthy and Complicated Application Processes

• Each visa type involves a complex application process, requiring detailed and specific documentation. Gathering the necessary evidence, such as tournament results, endorsements, media coverage, and expert testimonials, can be overwhelming if done incorrectly.
• The approval timelines can vary significantly, and any errors or omissions in the application can lead to delays or denials.

3. Lack of Proper Guidance

• Navigating the U.S. immigration system without expert assistance increases the risk of mistakes. Misunderstanding the requirements, missing deadlines, or failing to provide sufficient documentation can result in rejection.

The Solution: Specialized Poker Visas by Sherrod Sports Visas

Sherrod Sports Visas specializes in helping professional poker players navigate the complex U.S. immigration system. Our expertise in securing P-1, O-1, and EB-1A visas ensures that players can focus on their game rather than the challenges of visa applications. Should you succeed in obtaining poker visas of this nature, you’d then be allowed to live with work authorization in the United States.

• P-1 Visa: The P-1 visa is designed for internationally recognized athletes, including poker players. To qualify, players must demonstrate their achievements and international recognition. Sherrod Sports Visas has extensive experience in preparing compelling applications that highlight a player’s career and achievements.
• O-1 Visa: The O-1 visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability in their field. Professional poker players who have achieved significant success and recognition can qualify for this visa. Our team at Sherrod Sports Visas assists in gathering the necessary documentation, such as awards, media coverage, and expert testimonials, to build a strong case for approval.

• EB-1A Visa: The EB-1A visa is a permanent residency option (Green Card) for individuals with extraordinary ability. This visa is ideal for poker players looking to establish a long-term presence in the U.S. Sherrod Sports Visas provides comprehensive support throughout the application process, ensuring that all aspects of a player’s career are showcased effectively to meet the high standards of the EB-1A visa.

Proven Poker Visa Success Stories

Sherrod Sports Visas has a track record of success in helping professional poker players achieve their dreams. Here are a few notable success stories:

• Ye Yuan: Ye Yuan’s expertise in poker is highlighted by his high rankings, such as #2312 globally and #4 nationally on the Global Poker Index (GPI), and his significant achievements in major tournament series like the World Series of Poker (WSOP). With the expert guidance of Sherrod Sports Visas, Ye Yuan successfully navigated the P-1 visa application process. The firm helped him showcase his performance and documented successes, providing a strong foundation for his visa approval and serving as an excellent example for aspiring poker professionals.
• Ivan Ruban: Ivan Ruban’s impressive poker career and strategic approach have positioned him well for a P-1 visa, granting him entry to compete in the United States’ most prestigious tournaments. Ruban is ranked #576 globally and #30 in Russia on the Global Poker Index. His notable victory at the 2022 Seminole Hard Rock Poker Open highlights his ability to succeed on the big stage. With the expert guidance of Sherrod Sports Visas, Ruban successfully navigated the P-1 visa application process, showcasing his expertise and meticulously crafting an itinerary to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
• Aleksandr Gofman: With a Global Poker Index (GPI) ranking of #1658 and a major win at the Partypoker LIVE MILLIONS Russia 2017 Championship, Gofman’s story is a masterclass for aspiring poker players. This victory significantly boosted his reputation on the global stage, allowing him to successfully build a strong P-1 visa application, with the guidance of Sherrod Sports Visas, showcasing his dedication to the highest levels of poker.

Why Choose Sherrod Sports Visas?

1. Expertise: Our team specializes in sports visas, with a deep understanding of the unique requirements for professional poker players.

2. Personalized Service: We tailor our approach to each client’s specific needs, ensuring the best possible outcome for their visa application.

3. Proven Track Record: Our success stories speak for themselves, demonstrating our commitment to helping poker players achieve their goals.

Professional poker players looking to compete in the United States can overcome immigration challenges with the right support. Sherrod Sports Visas is here to provide that support, offering expert guidance and a proven track record of success. Whether it’s a P-1 visa, an O-1 visa, or an EB-1A visa, we have the expertise to help you secure your poker visa and take your career to the next level. Contact Sherrod Sports Visas today and let us help you compete in the greatest tournaments.

This article was communicated via Sherrod Sports Visas.

As the 2024 World Series of Poker (WSOP) is about to kick off, professional poker player and media personality Bernard Lee is marking a special milestone of his own, with the 17th anniversary of The Bernard Lee Poker Show. Since its inception in 2007, the show has earned numerous industry accolades and garnered a loyal listener base through its in-depth interviews with prominent figures in the poker world.

Listeners can access The Bernard Lee Poker Show on iTunes and right here on CardplayerLifestyle.com, where it is a founding member of our Podcast Family. Additionally, segments of the show’s episodes are available on Lee’s YouTube page.

“I want to thank all of my loyal listeners and fans for supporting my show for so many years. Over the past 17 years, it has thoroughly enjoyed interviewing such intriguing people, allowing me to produce my poker show. I can’t wait to see what storylines come out of the 2024 WSOP and look forward to interviewing many familiar faces and some breakout players,” said Lee.

Special 17th Anniversary Poker Shows

To commemorate its 17th anniversary, The Bernard Lee Poker Show will feature exclusive interviews with the 2023 WSOP Main Event champion Daniel Weinman and the 2023 WSOP Player of the Year Ian Matakis.

“In 2022, I enjoyed my previous interview with Bernard, so I was excited to return to discuss my 2023 WSOP Main Event win. We had another memorable conversation, and it was a great full-circle moment,” stated Weinman.

As part of the 17th-anniversary celebration, The Bernard Lee Poker Show will give away copies of Lee’s latest book from D&B Poker, “Poker Satellite Success!: Turn Affordable Buy-Ins Into Shots at Winning Millions!” Lee, who qualified via satellite for his notable 13th place finish in the 2005 WSOP Main Event, hopes that poker players will learn key satellite strategies from his book to win a seat in the 2024 WSOP Main Event.

To enter the giveaway contests, listeners should follow Lee on X at @BernardLeePoker and Repost/Like contest announcements. Supporters can also qualify by subscribing to his YouTube Channel (BernardLeePoker) or following him on Instagram at @BernardLeePoker.

About Bernard Lee

A resident of Wayland, Massachusetts, Lee has won over $2.5 million and 10 titles on the poker tournament circuit since turning pro following his 13th place finish in the 2005 WSOP Main Event. Known as “the voice of poker in New England” by Cardplayer.com, Lee is a recognized poker media personality worldwide.

He released his latest book, Poker Satellite Success, in 2021, published by D&B Poker. Lee also authored The Final Table, Volume I and Volume II, compilations of his Sunday Boston Herald poker columns written over seven years. Additionally, Lee is a poker instructor and has served as a commentator for the WSOP. He co-hosted ESPN.com’s weekly online poker show, “ESPN Inside Deal.” Recently, Lee has ventured into the world of pickleball, winning the National Championship in singles at the 2023 Senior National Games in Pittsburgh, PA.

Poker is a highly combative game where the ultimate goal is to win stacks of cash or the accolades that come along with it, such as bracelets and trophies. That being said, much like there’s a codified set of TDA rules, there is also an unwritten set of standards that players are expected to abide by which is commonly known as poker etiquette. Follow these acknowledged rules of poker etiquette and you can make friends and win respect at the table. If, however, you disregard these you may soon find yourself making enemies and in the long run gaining a bad reputation in the poker community. Here are some of the most common guidelines to good and bad poker etiquette and making friends and enemies at the table.

Image used for illustrative purposes only

Good Poker Etiquette

1. Don’t berate the dealer or other players at the table

This is a fundamental point of good poker etiquette. Poker can be an emotionally charged game and it is up to you to keep your emotions in check when riding that rollercoaster. Never take out your frustrations verbally on the dealer or on other players at the table after a loss. This way you might have lost the pot, but you will win respect from your peers — and there will always be another hand.

2. Act in turn

Always wait until the action is on you before you act in a hand. Folding or raising before the action is on you can influence the other player’s decisions. Accidents will happen from time to time and a player may fold out of turn, but pay attention to your position and act in turn at the table.

Be patient and courteous to other players by granting them ample time to act – it’ll be much appreciated when someone is under stress. Beginners and inexperienced players usually take the longest because they are still processing the information. While you may look down at a hand like A2o and know it’s a fold, they may still be thinking.

3. Avoid discussing the hand in play

Imagine you have folded your hand pre-flop only to see those junky cards flop a full house. Here’s what to do: stay calm. Don’t react. Don’t say, “You won’t believe what I just folded!” or wiggle around exasperatedly in your seat. Plainly put, that’s bad form. The other players are still betting and the hand is still live for them. You never want to give away any information that may influence the decision-making of others, and thus the outcome of the hand.

4. Keep large denomination chips clearly visible

The large value chips in a cash game or tournament should be at the front of your stack and clearly visible. This gives your opponents transparency to gauge how much you are playing. This comes into play when opponents might be considering things like pot odds and stack to pot ratio (SPR).

If you’re “hiding” larger denomination chips in the middle or bottom of your stacks, this greatly affects their calculations. You don’t want to be the person accused of misrepresenting their stack or “angling” in play — something we will arrive to later in this article.

5. Don’t ask to see a losing hand

Imagine you are facing a bet on the river in a cash game and you are in position and decide to make the call. Your opponent announces “You’re good.” You don’t want to be that person that forces your opponents to show down losing hands every single time — it’s a surefire way to make enemies at the poker table in the long run. Lesser skilled players especially might not want to reveal their cards out of embarrassment. Table your hand and allow your opponent to muck their own; this is good poker etiquette.

Bad Poker Etiquette

1. Slow rolling

This is a major one and perhaps the rudest thing you can do that is in most cases technically within the rules in poker. Slow rolling is when you intentionally delay showing down what you know to be the winning hand, misleading your opponent into thinking that they are about to scoop the pot. This is a way to make enemies quickly — when you know you are good, just table the winner.

2. Splashing the pot

This refers to throwing chips directly into the pot recklessly… effectively “splashing” the pot. This is bad etiquette as it makes the pot difficult to count for the dealer and the other players which in turn slows down the action. Generally speaking, anything that slows the game down is to be avoided. Part of being a respectful player is being even-keeled and controlled in all your maneuvers.

3. Angle-shooting

Angle-shooting might not be technically illegal, but the term refers to actions that are deemed unethical and unsporting. An example might be holding one high denomination chip in the palm of your hand during a big pot – misleading your opponent into thinking you have a smaller stack. This form of deception is very frowned upon in the poker world and will certainly make you an unpopular figure at your cardroom.

READ MORE: Here’s Why Angle Shooting is a Big No-No

4. Needling

Needling occurs when you make mildly offensive comments towards other players — to get under their skin. This is quite common in poker, especially in friendly home game settings, but try not to hit below the belt. You will have to judge what is friendly banter and what is crossing the line. Let’s say someone was doing well and had a giant chip stack then lost most of it. If you were to turn and ask them; “hey, where did all your chips go?” then this could be seen as a tasteless needle, and poor poker etiquette.

5. Being a bad winner

When you take down a pot — particularly a big pot — you should do so humbly and in a way that won’t embarrass the losing player. Don’t engage in excessive or obnoxious celebrations, and definitely don’t give unwarranted advice on how badly your opponent may have played their hand (even if they are a fish). As hard as it may be, the correct etiquette is to contain your excitement, stack your chips quietly, and don’t forget to tip the dealer.

The 2024 WPT Montreal Festival is now coming to a close, having drawn poker players and enthusiasts from around the globe to the vibrant Canadian city of Montreal. This year’s festival was no exception, with new stars shining in the spotlight, established pros making deep runs in marquee events, and plenty of great cash game action on the side to complement the packed tournament fields. Outside of the hosting Playground venue, the city was buzzing — as always — with plenty else to offer poker fans and aficionados alike. Here’s a look at the top highlights from my time covering the 2024 WPT Montreal Festival.

1. Reconnecting with WPT Talent and Poker Friends

Every big poker festival offers the opportunities for reunions. For those of us who regularly travel the worldwide poker circuit, or even only make the odd appearance here and there, it’s always great to see familiar faces at and away from the felt.

While here, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with many friends including WPT talent and ambassadors like Matt Savage, Tony Dunst, Vince Van Patten, and Brad Owen. It was also great to catch up with friends and colleagues like Eric Afriat, Jaime Staples, Benny Glaser, Mike Patrick, Tim Fiorvanti, and Matt Hansen, as well as meet bunches of new folks who I can now call friends.

What a great crew to hang out with on my pre-birthday here in Montreal!
⁦@jaimestaples⁩ ⁦@beccarr94⁩ ⁦@BennyGlaser⁩ @cardplayerlife⁩ ⁦@MattyBet⁩ ⁦@DavidSalituro⁩ and more!! pic.twitter.com/vVthLcrfYv

— Mike Patrick (@MikePatrick98) May 16, 2024

I’ve also got to give a special shout out to four people: Darren, whose story I chronicled here, as well as Steen, Lynne, and Pat, the three of whom traveled to Playground from their homes two hours away(!) to see me. Their enthusiasm for the game was simply heartwarming and a reminder of the strong community that poker fosters.

I first met Steen and Lynne in an online home poker mixed game group that got together during the pandemic. We played maybe 4-5 tournaments as part of a short-lived league to pass time when there was nothing else to do.

But they signed up for my @PokerLifeMedia newsletter and… pic.twitter.com/T4otQzyEhk

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 16, 2024

Pat’s presence was integral in helping to get the Montreal Mixed Game running

2. Capitalizing on Playground’s New Player Offer

Who doesn’t like free money? 🙂 Upon arriving at Playground for the first time I was told that if I sign up for their rewards card, and followed them on Facebook and Instagram, I’d get $30 in free play. When printing out those vouchers, the attendant told me “come back again tomorrow and we’ll give you another $25 in free play.” Not one to miss the opportunity, I did so, and had $55 in free play to try and convert to real, actual dollars. Wouldn’t you know it, I succeeded to a nice degree!

That wonderful feeling when you manage to “sun run” with outside bets at roulette and turn $55 in free play (thank you @PlaygroundPoker for the players card sign-up offer!) into 80 actual (Canadian) dollars. 😁🥳🤑 pic.twitter.com/Botqb8Kcza

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 17, 2024

3. The Daily Rides in the Playground Charter Shuttle

I usually work from home, which means that I don’t really have a commute of which to speak. As there isn’t yet a hotel on premises at Playground, staying in Downtown Montreal meant a half hour commute each way to/from the venue.

Between the daily shuttles and group Uber rides, I spent a good few hours “on the road” this week to chat with fellow media folks and WPT staff, catch up on some podcast listening, and — well, frankly — appreciate that I usually work from home and don’t have to regularly commute. Even so, it was nice to have the contrast and experience something different.

Our chariot has arrived!

Back to @PlaygroundPoker we go.

I think after finishing up the article I’m working on, I might play me a little poker session today.

I mean, how do you write a room review without actually playing, eh? 😁 pic.twitter.com/UWxw0IDstB

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 17, 2024

4. Enjoying Montreal’s Up-and-Coming Stand-Up Comedians

Montreal is renowned for its comedy scene, particularly the Just for Laughs festival in the summer. So, I had high hopes for hearty ha-has when booking tickets for a couple local shows. While the performances were entertaining, they didn’t quite live up to the city’s high comedic standards. Nonetheless, it was a fun way to spend the evenings and enjoy local talent.

Something I enjoy doing in new places I visit is taking in the local comedy scene.

Looking forward to tonight’s Pro-Am show at @mtlBOOM.

Nothing beats laughing! 😁 pic.twitter.com/zAcxywD4Nr

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 17, 2024

5. My Shabbat Walk to Mount Royal

As I don’t work on the sabbath and completely disconnect from electronics (including my phone), a pleasant walk seemed like the perfect activity; and the weather was absolutely perfect. It was one heck of a climb up those hundreds of stairs, but reaching the top of Mount Royal and getting to take in the stunning city views was certainly worth it. This iconic landmark offered a great chance to gain a unique perspective on Montreal’s natural beauty away from the hustle and bustle in the city streets.

Luckily, a kind fellow (thanks, Robert!) agreed to take this picture of me and email it to me, so that I can have documentation of the shabbat walk to Mount Royal beyond my memories.

6. Exploring Old Town and the Port of Montreal

No visit to Montreal is complete without exploring the historic Old Town and Port areas. Wandering through the cobblestone streets, admiring the charming architecture, and enjoying the waterfront views were memorable experiences. I couldn’t resist buying a few souvenirs, watching a couple street performers, and just people-watching on the pedestrian promenades.

A little sightseeing in Montreal’s Old Town and at the Port. 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/c1ql9IeUE3

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 21, 2024

7. Getting to Know the Playground Staff

Playground has long been widely considered as the best poker venue in Canada, and having experienced it myself over the last week, I couldn’t agree more with that sentiment. Top to bottom, the staff were exceptional, showcasing the newly enhanced property as a poker-first destination. From their famous championship belt display to the free food on offer for cash games to absolutely world-class dealers, Playground’s hospitality and professionalism were evident throughout the festival.

READ MORE: Playground’s Not-So-Secret Recipe for Success

Very cool to finally get to visit @PlaygroundPoker for the first time!

Getting the lay of the land here before the hordes of players descend upon the place for @WPT Montreal festivities.

Tres bon! 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/6mrLu92EAK

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 16, 2024

The dealers and staff at @PlaygroundPoker are well known for their first-rate professionalism.

Here’s the “pre-game scrum” ahead of Day 1B of the 2024 @WPT Montreal CAD$3,500 Championship Event, with play set to begin in a few minutes. pic.twitter.com/dXZa9CSqps

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 17, 2024

8. Organizing and Playing in the Montreal Mixed Game

Organizing and playing in what was likely the first-ever Montreal Mixed Game was an exciting experience. I wrote 1,500+ words about our 8-hour-long mixed game session, the effort that went into getting it together and up-and-running, and the wonderful time we all had, so there isn’t much more to add here.

I just hope that our little group perhaps succeeded in inspiring some folks and staff, and that many more Montreal Mixed Games will run in the future at Playground.

9. WPT Montreal Championship Event & WPT Prime Final Tables

Naturally, the pinnacle of World Poker Tour stops is the staging of WPT Prime and WPT Championship Events. The live streams of both event’s final tables are available on the World Poker Tour’s YouTube channel, with great commentary provided by Jamie Kerstetter and Jason Somerville.

Being here in person, however, has reminded me of the context surrounding those final tables. Players had to wade through fields of 1,291 (Prime) and 882 (Championship) to make it to the bright lights of the final table. Watching the action unfold and witnessing the players’ skill and strategy is always thrilling.

Homage must also be paid to the world class WPT production crew. I saw them turn what’s usually a 17-table “overflow area” of Playground into the stage. It’s a big operation and the team handled it with expert precision, speed, and gusto. And they’ll be folding it all up to transport it to the next WPT stop when all is said and done; all in a day’s work I suppose, but it’s such great work they do and they ought to be applauded for it!

10. Savoring the Local Food Scene

As the old saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart passes through his stomach,” and boy did Montreal deliver its heartfelt best. I enjoyed meals at a couple kosher restaurants: Pizza Pita and Benny & Fils, plus had food from a third establishment, Sushi Metzuyan, delivered to my hotel via Uber Eats for shabbat. Each place offered delicious culinary delights that greatly added to my overall enjoyment of this trip.

Montreal is well known for being a “great food city” — and over my week here I have certainly not been disappointed!

Shout outs to Pizza Pita, Sushi Metsuyan, Benny & Fils, and The Rail pic.twitter.com/wm37GjJG0i

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 22, 2024

Au Revoir, Montreal

For me, getting to cover the 2024 WPT Montreal Festival was an unforgettable experience filled with exciting poker action, cultural exploration, and cherished reunions. It highlighted to me what the World Poker Tour name itself stands for: sure, there’s poker, but it’s also about touring the world while experiencing that poker. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity, hope that you’ve enjoyed Cardplayer Lifestyle’s coverage over this past week, and encourage you all to visit Montreal the next time the World Poker Tour rolls into Playground.

Blackjack is widely recognized as a traditional game in the casino industry because it requires a good blend of strategy and skill plus creates an adrenaline rush. In this era of digital currency and online casinos, players can participate in playing blackjack with Bitcoin or Ethereum. In this detailed guide, we will dive into the realm of digital currency blackjack. We’ll provide you with strategies and tips: the best to master this game! Whether you are well-versed in blackjack gameplay seeking to test your luck as a crypto-enthusiast or seasoned blackjack player, this guide will provide you with all the knowledge and skills you need to succeed. Let’s get started without wasting any time.

What You Need To Know

You are on your path towards mastering Crypto Blackjack with the use of digital currency with a trustworthy site. It is vital that you know the nature of the game in its online form. Moreover, we need to explore the advantages and potential risks involved in playing blackjack with digital currency. This informative session will equip you with essential details before the actual play. But remember, every successful journey begins from a solid ground, right?

When you make your choice of where to place your bets online, you need to think about these tips. They are very essential for an exciting and secure blackjack adventure in a digital currency casino. Let us discuss the main components of online casino selection: licensing and regulation, security measures, game variety, customer support. We will explain later in the text. When you follow our suggestions, you will find yourself on reputable platforms that provide fair gaming along with protection of your digital assets. So, keep on reading if you want to be a crypto blackjack master!

Create Your Strategy

Those who are good at playing blackjack understand that the strategy is an essential part of the game, which allows you to maximize your chances of winning. Let us plunge into the basic blackjack strategies. Namely basic strategy charts and card counting methods, in a generic context but illustrated with digital currency blackjack examples. And also we will reveal more strategies peculiarly useful when playing online like adapting bets to changes in cryptocurrencies. Let’s see the other important point that you should be careful about.

Bankroll Management Is Crucial

Any blackjack enthusiast knows the significance of having a well-managed bankroll. This article discusses the art of managing your digital currency bankroll and it involves setting up limits, coming up with ideal bets, and other techniques to ensure risk management. When you apply these strategies, it allows you to preserve your funds and make your gambling sessions last longer. Other than these, do not forget the advantages that casinos give you.

READ MORE: On Budgets vs, Bankrolls

Bonuses and Promotions

Bonuses plus promotions are often used by digital currency casinos as an attraction to players. Our discussion will walk you through the realm of online casino bonuses, particularly those of welcome bonus, deposit bonuses and loyalty programs; with tips on how to recognize top bonus offers, grasp their terms and conditions and how these can be used towards lifting your game in blackjack play.

The excitement of mastering blackjack using cryptocurrency is amazing, isn’t it? But we must consider responsible gambling when playing this game. We shall underscore the significance of responsible gambling, which entails setting limits, identifying signs and signals of problem gambling, and seeking help when necessary. These are the points that you must act carefully. Our objective is to guarantee that your expedition through the realm of blackjack remains pleasurable and does not exceed your financial means.

In order to be able to master such transactions, it is important that you are well aware of the digital currency. In other words, you have to know what’s happening on the crypto side. After that, select a trustworthy online casino, develop playing strategies and manage your bankroll with caution while staying responsible towards gambling so that you can enhance your blackjack skills. Remember, practice makes perfect. Start your journey into the world of digital currency blackjack today and revel in the excitement of this classic game reinvented in the era of digits.

The 2024 WPT Montreal festival is currently ongoing at Playground. As always, plenty of stories are emerging from the felt, including WPT ambassador Brad Owen making the final table of the WPT Prime event. Live reporting is capturing all the action at the tournament tables, plus we will all be treated to first-rate final table broadcasts of the Championship event and Prime event in the coming days. But with such a surge in attendance for the World Poker Tour tournaments, there’s also tons of poker action happening at the venue’s cash game tables. I had the good fortune of being part of that action last night, as a group of us managed to get together what I’ll dub the Montreal Mixed Game.

Inspired by success at getting low-stakes dealers choice games together on previous poker trips, including the recent WPT Voyage, I brought my plaques with me again in the hopes that I’d be able to gather enough mixed game lovers — as well as perhaps some curious, brave players — to try some non-hold’em poker games.

PSA: Let’s Make “The Montreal Mixed Game” Happen
—
I’ve been told by the top folks at @PlaygroundPoker that they’d HAPPILY spread a $4/8 mixed game if we have a critical mass of people ready to play in one.

Let’s see if we can get something together for Sunday evening, say 6pm?… pic.twitter.com/2OY0PqR4n4

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 17, 2024

First to respond to the call were a couple of my good friends and poker media colleagues, Matt Hansen and Tim Fiorvanti, who said that they’d be happy to hop in if the game got running. Also dedicated to trying to make the mixed game happen was my friend Pat Ang, who has attended a couple of Cardplayer Lifestyle Mixed Game Festivals in the past. He lives here in Canada and said that he would happily make the approximately two-hour trip out from his home to Playground in the hopes we could get a mixed game.

Right about now, some readers might be saying to themselves, “geez, that seems like a LOT of effort just to try and get a game together!” Typical poker games materialize very quickly in rooms across the world, but overwhelmingly that just means people gather to play Texas hold’em, or perhaps pot limit Omaha. As mixed game poker is a sub niche, it usually takes a sustained, concerted effort to get one running. Most people don’t make that effort.

That’s unfortunate, but I have long been driven to work towards growing mixed games in general, and through our bespoke festivals in particular. In my experience, I’ve found that it has ALWAYS been worth making the effort, and the Montreal Mixed Game that materialized last night was no exception.

Congrats on getting very likely the first ever 4-8 mix running in Montreal if not all of Canada. 🇨🇦

— Mike Patrick (@MikePatrick98) May 20, 2024

Packing the initial snowball together is always the hardest part, but if we manage to get a game running, it’ll last for a while and attract attention and onlookers. This proved true in every respect last night during the Montreal mixed game.

It took some cajoling to initially get the game listed on Poker Atlas, the excellent software used by Playground management to run their cash game room, but thankfully they were eager to accommodate.

“Achievement unlocked”

We officially, finally, have a $4/8 mix list going at @PlaygroundPoker.

At least five of us need to be present to get the game started.

Come join us and have some fun!

If it runs, I’ll be writing about “The Montreal Mixed Game” on @PokerLifeMedia 😁 pic.twitter.com/Zu26b1n85J

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 19, 2024

Pat and I took a couple seats at a free table and busied ourselves at our laptops while we waited for other potential players to show up. Thankfully, he had online poker to play and I had work to do. 😊  It took a whopping 3.5 hours, but we remained committed to our goal of getting the game running.

Our patience was finally rewarded when Matt arrived after finishing his daily reporting duties. We were then joined by Brigitte, a regular at Playground who said she hadn’t played live mixed game poker in years and was excited to see it available. A dealer opened the table and we were finally on our way.

The Montreal Mixed Game is a go!

Come join us at table 10 at @PlaygroundPoker for some FUN!

Pat, Briggitte, Matt and I are already having a blast 3 hands in 😁 pic.twitter.com/ftBUfC2hq7

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 20, 2024

Unfamiliarity and Confusion Give Way to Experimentation and Appreciation

It was clear that while the staff at Playground were very happy to accommodate and spread our mixed game, such an event was an extremely rare occurrence, if not unprecedented. Cashiers in the cage looked at me funny when I said I wanted two racks of white $1 chips. When I tried to explain that it was for a $4/$8 fixed limit game, they looked at me even funnier and somewhat reluctantly gave me a rack with $80 in white chips and the rest as $5 red chips.

I can’t blame them. When mixed games don’t run in a poker room, explaining what they’re all about is practically a foreign concept. Furthermore, it’s a good thing that I brought my plaques with me as I’m reasonably certain that the venue didn’t have them, or at best would have had to look around for a while to locate them. Thankfully, Playground staff was again quite willing to utilize mine.

Amazing Dealers Enhanced the Montreal Mixed Game

While speaking to floor people and cashiers about getting a mixed game going is tricky, I expected a rockier road when it came to having to teach all the games to the dealers. Oh, how wrong I was!

I was unbelievably impressed at how smooth the dealing went throughout the course of our 8-hour mixed game session. Every single dealer, bar none, was quickly able to understand how to deal all variants that we played. They listened closely and patiently as I explained the nuts and bolts of each flop, stud, and draw game, how fixed limit betting works, and how some two-winner games required split pots.

Pretty much within a hand or two of dealing each variant, they got it. It just clicked. They’re absolute first-class professionals, and Playground must be applauded for hiring excellent dealers and training them so well.

READ MORE: Playground’s Not-So-Secret Recipe for Success

Every single dealer approached our poker table not with hesitation but rather with anticipation of getting to learn and gain experience in dealing non-hold’em variants of poker. They all exhibited tremendous patience, and dare I say each one seemed sad to leave when their time was up and the next dealer sat down in the box. A few of them even said that they wish they could join us to play at the tables!

A Great Poker Night in a Great Poker Room

As the night wore on, the amount of questions players had slowly decreased and the amount of laughter and enjoyment exponentially increased. At various points in the evening, we were joined at the table by Tim, Sam, Steve, and Simon, the latter of whom couldn’t help repeatedly expressing his excitement that a mix “was actually running” in Montreal!

Our little $4/8 mix is still going 4 hours in here at @PlaygroundPoker, once again proving the maxim: once the ball gets rolling, it keeps on rolling 😊

It’s been a blast so far, and DOZENS of Canadian dollars have been both won and lost 🤣

Good times being had 👌 pic.twitter.com/G0ZoKZ991F

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 20, 2024

Poker sessions at Playground are typically plenty enjoyable on their own. The recently renovated complex boats a 42-table dedicated room on the third floor. Dozens of flat-screen TV adorn the room and there’s a very well-stocked bar with all manner of beverages to imbibe. The tables themselves are all clean, equipped with automatic shufflers and individual charging ports for cellphones. Plus, plenty of masseuses were on duty providing great massages, which for CAD$1.50/minute is a steal.

Moreover, the tables were plenty spacious, with ample room for nine players to sit comfortably. Ours being a mixed game though, we instituted a max of seven players around the table and had elbow room galore. In addition, there was also plenty of room for food/beverage trollies near all of our chairs; an important feature, because food and drinks are completely free at Playground! Yup, you read that correctly: FREE!

A couple of murmurs could be heard on occasion about the 10% up to CAD$14 rake being “tough to beat”, but I’ll contend that with free food on offer 24/7 in such a delightful poker room, you certainly get excellent value for your raked bucks. I enjoyed a very tasty Impossible Burger and multiple other players helped themselves to a bite or two to eat during the Montreal mixed game.

To be sure, I was the only player among our group who ended up in the black at the end of the session, and not by much. Yeah, we can chalk that up to the rake and it being a $4/8 limit table; but dang if Playground didn’t step up to help show us all a wonderful time, catering to both our culinary and poker desires.

An Unforgettable Montreal Mixed Game Experience

The atmosphere around the table was plenty lively and friendly. Some players who had never previously met took smoking/vaping breaks together. Jokes were told, in both English and French. Laughs were had – especially when I suggested that a player “blame Canada” for having gotten sucked out on the twin rivers of a double board “best-best” hand. 🙂

I, myself, am pretty shocked that the game ran as long as it did. Eight hours is one heck of a mixed game session to happen at a place that essentially never sees the variants spread! And it took a lot of effort to get going. And I had to explain rules and procedures all night long. And many mistakes were made at showdowns:

• “OH! I thought we were playing A-5 instead of 2-7!”
• “OH! I didn’t realize they all needed to be different suits in Badugi!”

But I’ll be damned if every single player and dealer who took part in the Montreal mixed game didn’t have the times of their lives around the tables.

These are the kinds of poker stories that don’t usually get covered at major festivals. They happen at the cash game tables, where you won’t ever find poker reporters hovering. They happen away from the spotlight. They happen while the amazing World Poker Tour production teams sets up the stage for fantastic final table action to be beamed into your homes and onto your screens.

And sometimes you need to work just a little harder to make these kinds of games happen. Much like an “Impossible Burger” is actually a thing, so too, the impossibility of a Montreal mixed game can sometimes become a possibility if you put in the time and effort.

And when games like that happen, the experiences are nothing short of magical.

The face of a guy who had an absolute blast playing and teaching mixed game poker all night long.

8-hour session, now watching sunrise outside @PlaygroundPoker.

I was the only winner in the game (CAD$35), but EVERYONE enjoyed, and now I have 💰 for the Uber to the hotel. ☺️ pic.twitter.com/roY9Qe4UIn

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 20, 2024

I’m pleased to announce that Cardplayer Lifestyle has partnered with the Women’s Poker Association (WPA) to provide exclusive coverage of “Ladies Poker Week” events this summer, between June 23-30. We’ll be covering a number of Ladies Events that will be taking place around Las Vegas.

These include:

In addition to the above, we’ll be including info/results of the $600 Wynn Ladies Championship ($50K Guaranteed) that’s scheduled for June 17th.

“I am so excited for this collaboration between Cardplayer Lifestyle and the WPA to cover Ladies Poker Week during Poker Summer Camp in a way that’s NEVER been done before! These women look forward to this week of poker in Las Vegas all year long! Celebrating their attendance and poker achievements in real time, is going to be so much fun!”, said WPA President Tara Windsor-Smith.

What to Expect from Our Ladies Poker Week Coverage

Until now, Ladies Poker Week has been heavily promoted, but not properly reported on in-depth. While it’s important to get the word out and bring women to the poker table, it’s also important to showcase the events themselves, as well as the wonderful players and venues that help to make Ladies Poker Week such a well-attended series of events each summer.

Cardplayer Lifestyle will report each scheduled event’s results, highlight final tables, winners, and some players and interesting stories from the felt. Be sure to follow us on X @PokerLifeMedia and @cardplayerlife to keep up-to-date during the tournaments themselves. Each day during Ladies Poker Week, you’ll be able to read our recap of the previous day’s events and share it with all your poker friends and family rooting you on from back home.

Ladies Poker Week Sponsor: No Tilt Poker Tables

No Tilt Poker Tables will be sponsoring Cardplayer Lifestyle’s coverage of Ladies Poker Week. Their tables are made in the USA BY poker players, FOR poker players, using only the highest quality materials to ensure durability and comfort.

The company offers custom, handcrafted poker tables to families, card rooms, and casinos all over the world. Their tables are designed to bring people together, create unforgettable memories, and provide years of enjoyment.

Sponsoring this coverage was important to No Tilt Poker Tables, as they are passionate about promoting women in poker. They love seeing women thrive in this space, are proud to support and empower women in poker, and believe that together, we can grow the game and make it more inclusive for everyone!

Ladies Poker Week: Players of the Day Spotlight

At each Ladies Poker Week tournament, we’ll be highlighting the story of a designated Player of the Day. If you want to “see your name in lights”, this could be your chance.

We’ll tell your story, find out what you do away from the felt, what you love about playing in Ladies Events, your goals for Ladies Poker Week, and more.

“Ladies week in Las Vegas has become a fun summer tradition.  The women in our community look forward to getting together with their PFFs (Poker Friends Forever) from around the world and playing a ton of poker. We’re excited to work with Cardplayer Lifestyle to highlight the achievements and stories of these women in tournaments all across Las Vegas.” said WPA Vice President AJ Rudolph.

Looking forward to seeing you all in Las Vegas for 2024 Ladies Poker Week!

In a bid to better understand the evolution of Playground into the international poker powerhouse venue it is today, I sat down with their VP of Gaming Operations, Ryan Bevens. The venue, which opened back in 2010, boasts an impressive rise to prominence. Over the course of our conversation, it became clear that Playground’s continued excellence stems from their sticking to their main goal from Day 1: striving to create the best possible experience for players. When you visit this shrine to poker, you know you’ve arrived at a special place.

Playground’s Humble Beginnings and Early Vision

Though only starting out with a comparatively modest 21 poker tables, right from the get-go Playground’s focus was on the player. “It was all about having a luxurious experience: having the best chairs, the biggest tables, the most comforting atmosphere,” Ryan shared. This vision of luxury and comfort set Playground apart from other gaming establishments right from the start.

Over the past 14 years, Playground has grown significantly, driven by player demand for more, bigger, and better facilities. Today, it boasts a plethora of features and amenities designed to ensure a first-class experience. These include, for instance, extra-large tables to prevent overcrowding. “We don’t want nine players at a table to feel like a tight squeeze,” Ryan explains. This type of attention to detail and player comfort is a hallmark of Playground’s approach.

Relentless Ambition to Be a Great Poker Destination

The ambition at Playground has remained constant over the years. While many properties offer similar amenities—gaming machines, poker, etc.—Playground distinguishes itself through its relentless drive to provide the best guest experience possible.

A testament to this commitment is their policy of offering free food and drinks to everyone playing in the cash games, a rare perk in today’s gaming world. “You can sit down with $50 playing $1/2 No-Limit Hold’em and eat for free. That kind of thing just doesn’t happen anymore,” Ryan points out.

A Game-Changing Partnership with the World Poker Tour

A pivotal moment for Playground happened back in 2012, when they first hosted the World Poker Tour. “This event catapulted us to international recognition. WPT bet on us even though we were a small operation; so that partnership has always been near and dear to us,” Ryan shares.

When we first hosted the World Poker Tour back in 2012 that was absolutely a game changer. It put us on the map!

The relationship with WPT has continued to flourish. The return of the WPT to Playground after a five-year hiatus is a testament to the strong partnership between the two organizations. The WPT Montreal event is unique, with Playground awarding a championship belt to the winner, in addition to their name being enshrined on the Mike Sexton Champions Cup.

This tradition, with a wink and nod to the staff’s passion for wrestling, sets Playground apart and underscores their innovative spirit. “When you think ‘bracelet,’ you think ‘WSOP’. When you think ‘trophy,’ you think of the WPT’s Mike Sexton Champions Cup. When you think ‘championship belt,’ well, some other properties may have that now, but it all started with us here at Playground,” Ryan says proudly.

The 2024 Expansion: 128,000 Square Feet of Gaming

Recently, Playground completed a major expansion, adding two new floors to the existing space. This expansion included a dedicated poker floor, providing 42 luxurious poker tables, including two private VIP rooms. The property took care to maintain its distinctive black and red color scheme, ensuring brand consistency throughout. “Even though we’ve expanded, we’ve stayed on brand in every way,” Ryan notes.

The new third-floor poker room features 44 tables, while an overflow area on the first floor can accommodate an additional 17 tables. Furthermore, a tent with 40 tables is set up for larger events. Although the tent is a temporary structure, it is equipped with climate control, security cameras, and high-quality amenities to ensure it meets the same standards as the permanent facilities.

“We wanted to build something that could properly ‘face the elements’, so it is fully heated and cooled, we brought in a full grab-and-go station and added an entire bar. But it’s temporary! The day that this event leaves, the tent comes down. Preparation time to get the tent fully up and running is a couple weeks,” Ryan explains.

Playground’s Unique Offerings and Promotions

Playground continues to innovate and enhance the player experience. Beyond their unique offering of free food and drinks to every player, they also run a variety of interesting promotions. These include the largest Hold’em Bad Beat jackpots in the world, a separate PLO Bad Beat Jackpot, and a mystery high hand promotion, where players can win up to $25,000. Specifically, players who make a qualifying hand (aces full of kinds, as of this writing) have the chance to pull an envelope and potentially win a substantial prize if their hand qualifies. These unique promotions contribute to the vibrant and engaging atmosphere at Playground.

What It Means to Employ A World-Class Staff

A crucial element of Playground’s success is its highly trained staff. Ryan emphasizes that their dealers are considered among the best in the industry, thanks to rigorous and ongoing training programs. “Our trainers, our leadership and management team are extremely strong. Everyone goes through the dealer’s school, but also constant refreshers,” Ryan explains.

This dedication to continuous improvement ensures that the staff is always up to date with the latest rules and developments. “Every dealer, supervisor, dual rate – we all go through training every single week. I’ve been in gaming for 20 years and have never seen any level of ongoing staff training like what we do here,” he adds.

The dealers and staff at @PlaygroundPoker are well known for their first-rate professionalism.

Here’s the “pre-game scrum” ahead of Day 1B of the 2024 @WPT Montreal CAD$3,500 Championship Event, with play set to begin in a few minutes. pic.twitter.com/dXZa9CSqps

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) May 17, 2024

Measuring Success Beyond Revenue

Success for Playground is measured not just by revenue but by the volume and diversity of players it attracts. The goal is to be a world-class poker destination, welcoming players from around the globe. Continuous improvement is key to achieving this, with every aspect of the player experience meticulously reviewed after each event.

“It’s a matter of traffic; how many people are coming through our doors. Size and reach of the event is important to us. We like to see growth. We like to see players coming out here to our tables from lots of different countries. To consider ourselves a truly ‘world class poker destination’ means that people from all over the world have to come to us,” Ryan explains.

Playground’s Ongoing Commitment to Excellence

Ryan’s closing remarks highlight the core Playground philosophy: “We want the player experience to be the best. We could do things cheaper and lower quality, but we specifically bring out the best equipment, even though it costs more; we want the best experience for the players and we will continue to set the bar.”

Playground’s journey from a small operation with 21 tables to a world-renowned poker destination is a story of unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and player satisfaction. With each expansion and every event, Playground continues to elevate the standard of what a premier poker experience should be. The dedication to luxury, player comfort, and top-notch service has solidified their reputation as a leading destination in the poker world.

Darren Johnson, a 57-year-old retiree from Saskatoon, is now living his best life as a dedicated recreational poker player. I first met Darren at our inaugural Mixed Game Festival back in October 2021 but only recently did I get to know him better, while hanging out at the mixed game tables during the WPT Voyage a few weeks ago. When Darren walked into the big tent housing the main tournament area at Playground, I couldn’t help but notice him. After all, he was literally wearing a shirt with my name on it! At that moment, it was clear to me that I had to have a proper conversation with him and learn his story, and what brought him out to participate in the WPT Montreal festivities.

A Lifelong Passion for Poker

Darren’s journey to the poker tables is as interesting as his approach to the game. His first exposure to poker occurred when at a tender five years old he learned Razz from his grandfather. Ever since, he’s been a die-hard lover of mixed game poker. Now living in the largest city in Saskatchewan, his poker odyssey has brought him to Playground ever since it opened in 2010, despite living a good 2,600 kilometers (1,600 miles) and a three-hour flight away.

“Usually, I come once a year for the big events hosted by PokerStars or partypoker,” he said, “but the WPT brand is just awesome – when that brand comes here, I could not miss it!” His enthusiasm for the WPT is palpable: “The WPT is a top-rate tour as far as I’m concerned, and Playground is the nicest run straight-up poker venue in all of Canada.”

Darren sold his car wash business and retired two years ago. These days, he dedicates about 25% of his time to studying poker, a sharp increase from his pre-retirement days when work and family left little room for such pursuits. Married with four children, Darren is also looking forward to becoming a grandfather for the first time.

Darren and I hanging out at the Bimini Beach Club in the Bahamas, during the WPT Voyage

The Permanent Smile on Darren’s MUG

A couple days back, the World Poker Tour and WPT Global hosted a well-attended meet-up game here, with over half a dozen company ambassadors in tow. Darren’s experience playing in it was quite memorable. “We had a blast!” he exclaimed. “I got to play with a bunch of pros, including Brad Owen, Vince Van Patten, and Jon ‘Apestyles’ Van Fleet. What makes a MUG fun for me is that everyone who comes to play is happy! Everyone is having fun, and I was there wearing my colorful shirt from Grand Cayman with the intention of having a good time, splashing around, and having a few drinks.”

Nice to share a table with @TheBradOwen and @VinceVanP_WPT pic.twitter.com/Xa6vZUN4DB

— Darren Johnson (@WASHDUDE) May 14, 2024

An Unbridled Love for the WPT and Playground

There’s plenty else that Darren appreciates about the World Poker Tour, too, beyond the MUGs. “I love the structure of WPT tournaments. I love the 12.5% payout instead of the typical 15% that other mainstream festivals seem to have switched to.”

Look at this fine fellah I ran into here ….. imagine that !!!! @SavagePoker #wpt pic.twitter.com/i34t6GOobn

— Darren Johnson (@WASHDUDE) May 10, 2024

As for why he’s so gung-ho about taking a 3-hour flight across the country to play poker, even though he’s just a 45-minute drive away from his local room in Saskatoon, it’s pretty obvious. “You get treated SO well here at Playground,” Darren noted. “The rake is a little high (10% up to $14), but you get such great value. If you’re playing $1/3 NLHE, half the dining menu is free; at $2/5 and above, the entire menu is free! All the drinks are free; it’s great. That’s not something you get anywhere else in Canada – not even close, even though the rake elsewhere is similar.”

Specifically, Darren appreciates the fact that Playground is primarily a poker venue. “In Western Canada, poker is secondary; many venues only have it because local governments mandate it along with other games like slots — like they do the best slots sites online. And sure, I’ve been coming here for 14 years ever since this place opened. I’ve seen it expand from when it was just a small metal structure. I love it even more now! It used to be just one giant poker room, and even though the expansion has seen the advent of electronic gaming, that hasn’t diminished Playground’s poker-first focus.”

He also appreciates the service-oriented environment at Playground. “As soon as the Uber drops me off at the front door, the doorman recognizes me and asks, ‘How’s it going today? I think I saw you earlier this week.’ They make the effort to remember you here, and that’s the biggest plus as far as I’m concerned.”

Ok let’s go !!! Wpt Montreal meet up game !!!! Let’s get my drink on !!!! pic.twitter.com/r6N0QWuFqF

— Darren Johnson (@WASHDUDE) May 14, 2024

Texas Hold’em’s Popularity Means There’s More to Poker Than Mixed Games

As a recreational player, Darren’s decision to make a 10-day trip out to WPT Montreal is driven by his love for the game and his desire to improve. While mixed games will always be his first love, Darren understands that they can rarely be found north of the U.S. border. As such, since retiring he’s plowed himself full throttle into No Limit Texas Hold’em. Thus far, he has attended a couple of LearnWPT seminars and has been making a concerted effort to get better at Game Theory Optimal (GTO) play. “I don’t know if it’s working, but I’m trying. I play poker because I enjoy it,” he shared.

Besides the aforementioned MUG, Darren has participated in several cash games, took a shot in the WPT Prime event, tried his luck in a few Championship event satellites, and hopped into a $300 NLHE tournament. “Every time I bust in a tournament, I take notes on a few hands. When I get home, I run them through a solver and ask myself, ‘What can I do better?’”

Having played at Playground many times over the years, Darren notes that the competition is significantly tougher when the WPT is in town. “More regs and pros who follow the tournament circuit are around, but that hasn’t discouraged me. After all, you don’t learn by playing against worse players!”

While Darren’s results in Multi-Table Tournaments (MTTs) haven’t improved as much as he’d like, he finds that the skills he’s learned have been beneficial in cash games, where his win rate has increased significantly.

Darren Johnson’s story is a testament to the joy of playing poker for the love of the game and the continuous journey of improvement. His enthusiasm and dedication to poker are lovely to behold, making him a cherished member of the poker community.

Like many folks out there, I’ve been a Daniel Negreanu fan for pretty much as long as I’ve been into poker. That’s a good 20+ years. But I’ve never actually put my money where my mouth is, in a manner of speaking. This year, it was finally time to do just that: when PokerStake offered people the chance to buy a piece of Daniel’s 2024 WSOP package, I jumped at the opportunity. Having had a little over $200 in my account, I’ve gone all-in and have emptied the proverbial clip, buying $216 for a whopping .0012% of Daniel’s action. Below are the top five reasons why I pulled the trigger.

Image credit: PokerGO

1. No Markup

As one of the most successful and popular poker players of all-time, Daniel could easily charge markup – i.e., a premium levied upon investors – but he chooses not to. Based on his track record and reputation alone, it’s a strategically advantageous move to invest in staking Negreanu as opposed to “any random poker player”. Statistically speaking, he is more likely to run deep and cash big in tournaments, which would thus justify his charging investors markup.

But Daniel is “a man of the people”. He has said on countless occasions that “I don’t need the money; I’ve set aside 25% of my buy-ins so the fans can have a sweat.” Well, anyone fortunate enough to get in and buy a piece not only has a sweat, but also gets themselves excellent value.

Today we had over 700 buyers of @realkidpoker @wsop package in under 3 minutes.

It was selling so fast, we decided to halt sales until tomorrow at noon EST.

We expect the final 8% to go even quicker. So be ready!

— PokerStake (@pokerstakecom) May 14, 2024

2. Quality Over Quantity = Successful (Thus Far)

Heading into this calendar year, Daniel declared that 2024 would be about “quality over quantity”. Five months into 2024, Daniel has stuck with this approach and it has thus far served him well. The fact that he hasn’t played as much poker means he’s HUNGRY going into the WSOP and will be starting off in peak form.

I’ll bet (literally!) that he’s likely to maintain that form as he bobs and weaves his way through the lengthy World Series of Poker schedule rather than running himself ragged trying to play in every possible tournament, as in years past.

Poker is all skill.

Quality over Quantity 2024

Didn’t play any of the $5ks but felt like it today and am chip leader with 8 left

Stream will be @PokerGo tomorrow pic.twitter.com/2M3TSKeMSb

— Daniel Negreanu (@RealKidPoker) January 16, 2024

Daniel has already notched five 6-figure scores in 2024, which is as many as he recorded in all of 2023. It seems to me that he’s locked in and primed for more success. Past results are not necessarily an indicator of future success, but this summer I’ll take my chances.

3. Daniel is Overdue for a Big WSOP

Daniel won WSOP Player of the Year honors in 2004 and 2014. It has been over a decade since he last won a bracelet, and over 15 years since he last won one in Las Vegas. Many people have been saying that “Daniel is due” for quite a while, including me. So now, if anything, he’s “overdue” for a big World Series of Poker.

While this sentiment is admittedly pretty subjective, the convergence of Daniel’s past achievements, “being due”, and current momentum suggests that an impressive WSOP performance is imminent.

Back when he first released the video detailing his 2023 results review and approach to 2024, I predicted that he’d win two bracelets this coming year.

You can’t watch this 👇 and not believe that Daniel’s going to have a great 2024.

Prediction: 2 bracelets, 2 PGT wins, 1 Triton FT, $5-6 million net profit, and a lot of happy investors on @pokerstakecom

GL, Daniel 👍 https://t.co/WknbkWCEiV

— Robbie Strazynski (@cardplayerlife) January 1, 2024

I stand by that prediction and such a double-bracelet performance would certainly be in line with everything mentioned thus far. Why not invest, ride on those coattails, and (hopefully) make some money along the way?

4. Vested Interest in Daniel Negreanu’s Daily Vlog

Hundreds of thousands of people watch Daniel’s daily vlog every summer. We’ve chronicled how that all comes together in the past both in Las Vegas and in Europe. I already watch and root for him, but now I have another reason to cheer him on, as I stand to financially benefit as well. His swings will (sort of) be my swings. There’s something cool about that.

5. Investing in a Friend is Always +EV

The four aforementioned reasons would apply to anyone hoping to buy a piece of Negreanu’s action. This final reason is a bit more personal. Daniel has always been ultra kind to me, generous with his time, supportive of my work in poker media, and more. He has no need for any sort of staking (from me or anyone else), and the $216 I invested wouldn’t even register as a blip on his radar.

But the one thing a friend can always offer is their friendship; that counts for something. To tell someone “hey, I believe in you and what you’re doing so much that I’m going all-in with my PokerStake bankroll” is the best vote of confidence you can give them.

And to have been able to write this up and share this article with the poker world; it already feels like a winning investment as far as I’m concerned.

Wishing Daniel and all who managed to grab a piece the best of luck!