Poker, which originated in the United States over two centuries ago, has evolved into its current most popular form, Texas Hold’em. This variation has boosted the game worldwide. With the advancement of technology, the emergence of online poker platforms has consolidated the game as one of the main mind sports globally.
In the virtual environment, the rules follow the same rules as in-person poker. However, the pace of the games is faster and social interactions, although present, occur in a simpler way. In addition, poker sites offer a greater variety of games and expand access to the public, both in terms of times and table lengths.
Another important difference of digital platforms is the possibility of playing on several tables at the same time. This format allows each player to adapt their routine and set their own pace in a large number of games.
Integração entre o ambiente físico e digital impulsiona o pokerIntegration between the physical and digital environment boosts poker
Despite the digital expansion, the in-person model remains relevant. Many players play both versions of the sport. The World Poker Federation, an entity created in Brazil with the aim of uniting the international community, contributes to the balance between the formats.
Roberto Lifschitz, the federation’s marketing director, says: “The dialogue between the two formats is continuous: online platforms promote live events; and these events are broadcast to digital audiences; and players naturally move between the two universes.”
“This move reinforces poker as a dynamic, adaptable sport that is present in multiple contexts — one of the pillars of the World Poker Federation’s mission,” he added.
At the end of the last century, online platforms began to influence the popularity of poker. Celebrities also began to represent brands. PokerStars, for example, has had Neymar as an ambassador for over a decade.
For him, the impact of digital platforms is decisive: “Digital platforms are fundamental to the growth of online poker. They not only enable access to the game on a global scale, but also play a central role in the player experience, the development of new formats and the expansion of the community.”
Data from Zion Market Research indicates that the global online poker market was valued at around US$86.2 billion in 2022. It is expected to reach US$237.5 billion by 2030, with an average annual growth of 13.5%.
Finally, the 2020 pandemic also contributed to this scenario. According to a Market Data report, the sector grew 43.1% that year, driven by people spending more time at home.
