PKR has shut down. This is an old review of the poker room
The future of online poker is here… so says Pkr in one of its video clips offering an insight into Pkr’s software. And you should probably get ready to agree with them. Pkr has really made an effort to create as realistic an environment as possible and the decision to use 3D is a very interesting step in its search for the ultimate poker room. The result is a very interesting and exciting poker room where the environment contributes to increasing the feeling of playing in a live casino.
Pkr is, just like Party Poker and PokerStars, independent and the average number of players is approximately 600 per day. That makes Pkr the sixteenth largest network and the tenth largest independent poker room (according to autumn, 2008 figures). The software has been developed in-house by PKR Limited, which is also the parent company. It is licensed by the Alderney Gambling Control Commission and the UK Gambling Commission.
Software and graphics
The big differences that set it apart from its competitors are mainly found under this heading. Pkr has taken online poker to the next level and the ability to partially control the avatars’ reactions gives it more of a personal touch. The 3D graphics are very good and mean that games become more realistic than those of traditional poker rooms. The disadvantage, of course, is that Pkr cannot offer functions that are as fast or flexible as were previously available, meaning that games at the tables can be a bit slower than usual.
The play in itself is actually really refreshing and there are various functions you can make use of. Make sure you play in Dynamic mode to make the most of the poker “feel”, with zooms on both the avatars and cards. Also ensure you express your feelings through different sitting positions or psyche out your opponents with the “chicken” move. It is precisely these psychological aspects of the game that have really been captured by Pkr.
Games and numbers of players
Pkr main daily offerings are No Limit Hold’em and Pot Limit Omaha. The average numbers a bit more than 600 players per day for cash games and quite a few of these tend to be less experienced players. The number of players is steadily increasing and the innovative company is attracting more and more players with its excellent graphics. The blind levels in cash games range from $0.02/$0.04 up to $30/$60.
Tournaments
Pkr offers several different kinds of tournaments, including everything from Speed and turbo tournaments to Deep Stack ones. Pkr also lets you participate in qualifiers for the big events, such as the WSOP, WPT and EPT. In addition, it offers daily freerolls. In terms of tournaments, it mainly offers Hold’em games, but it also has a number of Omaha tournaments. The range might not be the most extensive, but there is still plenty to choose from. Buy ins vary from freerolls (free tournaments) up to $50+$5.
Reminder
Emote control is a cool function you can use to show your current mood or what you are feeling at the moment. You also earn constant Pkr-points you can use to “jazz” up your avatar, buy wares from the Pkr shop or pay tournament entry fees. Everyone who registers also gets a Pkr-page where you can blog, socialise or keep track of tournament stats. You can even write messages in other people’s guest books.
Technical support
Email or live chat. Their support is open 24/7/365.
Deposit and withdrawal options
Good overview of your account. The following can be used for deposits: Moneybookers, Click2Pay, Neteller, VISA, VISA Debit, VISA Electron, Switch/Maestro, MasterCard, Solo, Entropay and Fast Bank Transfer/iDEAL. If your balance falls under $20 you need to contact Pkr’s customer services to transfer your withdrawal. Otherwise, the minimum withdrawal is $20. Whenever possible, Pkr prioritises withdrawal methods you have used before. Your transaction can be split into several parts if any of your cards or eWallet accounts have positive deposit balances that Pkr needs to prioritise for pay outs.
Advantages
Innovative 3D graphics
Highly personal feel
User friendly
Nice layout
Disadvantages
A bit slow
Slightly limited range of games