Examining the Motivations of Recreational Poker Players

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Thursday, December 22nd, 2016 | Written by Stephen Smith

The online poker industry is going through a major shift in terms of its current focus, with operators now clearly interested in attracting what is generally referred to as recreational players or individuals who are playing poker for fun rather than as a source of profit or a means to earn a living.

The industry has reached the realization that in order to ultimately grow its market share and increase gambling revenues, it need to attract more players to its virtual tables. Since it is unlikely that there will suddenly be a huge influx of new would-be professional players to the numerous online poker sites that are available, it makes more sense for operators to therefore focus their attention on developing the interest of recreational players.

But just what does attract recreational players to online poker sites? That’s the big question that needs to be answered.

Different Types of Recreational Players

First, operators need to be aware that there is no such thing as just one type of recreational player, and that this segment actually comprises a mix of different individuals. For instance, there are those players who are discovering the game for the first time, and are focused on trying out different types of poker games and stakes. Then, there are the more experienced players who only compete online infrequently, while still another category is the more serious recreational players who play regularly, but not for long grinding sessions or to make a living. So what motivates recreational players to play online? It depends on the person.

Playing to Improve

Some people visit online poker sites wanting to become better players, and while they may be aspiring pros who actually hope to one day successfully compete in tournaments and cash games, they do not see themselves as playing poker as a sole source of income. Genrally, these recreational players take the game very seriously and study poker offline by watching tutorials and reading. Furthermore, they are interested in seeking out other types of challenging games that allow them to put their skills to the test, whilst continuing to improve their skill sets.

Playing for Fun

Other players take to the virtual tables just to have fun, and while they may not be interested in being the best of the best, they do enjoy winning and derive a sense of satisfaction from it. These types of players will visit sites regularly, but do not study or invest time away from the tables improving their poker skills. This type of enthusiast will usually be attracted to games with fair rakes that have fun playing environments and competition that is stiff, but not completely focused on professional play.

Playing to Gamble

Then there are players that just like to gamble for the thrill of winning. These players do not solely visit online poker sites, and are just as likely to play online slots or blackjack as they are to choose to play poker. It’s really these players that the online poker industry will really need to attract in order to grow its market share, and for these types of players, fun, fast games with positive environments are preferred over games that take forever to complete, and are played against people who take the game very seriously. Games like Spin and Go, and Beat the Clock appeal specifically to these players, which explains why so many online poker sites are now offering their own versions of these themes.

Has the Dream of Becoming a Poker Pro Been Killed?

In the meantime, as the industry switches its focus towards recreational players, those players who consider themselves professionals have had to contend with a range of seismic shifts that have pulled the rug from under their feet. Not only have reward programs they once received been slashed, but also the playing environment has become increasingly tougher as the use of poker tracking software such as HUDs have been severely curtailed. As one successful online pro, JC Tran, tweeted recently:

“Big advice for anyone who wants to play poker for a living: Have a backup plan! Poker is tougher than ever before. Good luck!!!

Another pro, Jason Koon, went on record as stating his belief that high stake cash games will be completely dead within the next 2-3 years. As an alternative, poker sites are increasingly relying on fast gambling poker formats to appeal to the recreational market, and as Mark Radoja comments:

“Poker is extremely tough, and Amaya has not helped by increasing rake and promoting new game formats that are literally unbeatable. It’s a shame because people play poker mostly because they think they are or someday will be winning. Once they find out that no one wins, no one will play, and everyone loses.”

In the meantime, 14-times WSOP winner Phil Hellmuth still maintains his optimism for the game’s future, and has expressed his belief that a legalized US online poker market could encourage another surge in interest of the game. As he then explains:

“Poker is tougher than it used to be, that’s for sure. But there is still a ton of opportunity! And when online poker is legalized in the USA, I expect another sonic poker boom!”