BetMGM Poker Shatters Records with Largest Online Tournament Series Ever
- 3 Sep 2025
Poker is a game of skill, strategy, and chance with a rich history. From smoky saloons of the Old West to high-tech online platforms, poker has evolved into one of the most played card games worldwide. Let’s take a look at how poker has changed over the years.
Poker’s origins can be traced back to the 16th-century Persian game called As Nas. Over time, it evolved through European card games such as the French “Poque” and the German “Pochen,” both of which involved elements of bluffing and betting.
In the 1800s, poker gained popularity in America, especially along the Mississippi River. Riverboat gamblers began playing a 20-card version of the game, which eventually evolved into the modern 52-card deck format.
By the mid-19th century, poker had spread to saloons across the Wild West. It became a favorite pastime of cowboys, gunslingers, and outlaws. One of the most iconic legends from this era is Wild Bill Hickok, who was said to have been shot while holding the “Dead Man’s Hand” – a pair of aces and eights.
Poker became more organized in the 20th century. When casinos gained popularity, poker rooms became common across Las Vegas and Atlantic City.
The biggest breakthrough came in 1970 with the creation of the World Series of Poker (WSOP). This tournament brought the best players together and eventually became a global event. The use of television coverage and hole-card cameras made it easy for audiences to learn strategies and enjoy the action.
The late 1990s saw poker move to the digital space. In 1998, Planet Poker became the first real-money online poker site. The real explosion came in 2003 when Chris Moneymaker won the WSOP after qualifying through a $39 online satellite tournament.
Online platforms such as PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker helped millions of users play from the comfort of their homes. This period is often referred to as the “Poker Boom.”
If you’re just getting started, it’s important to understand poker hand rankings so you can make smart decisions at the table.
Today, poker is played on mobile apps, live dealer tables, and cryptocurrency-powered platforms. Players can join games anytime, anywhere. With the rise of Twitch and YouTube, many poker professionals now stream their sessions and share insights.
One variation gaining popularity is Short Deck Poker, which changes the dynamics of traditional hand values and betting strategies.
Live dealer poker also introduces a more authentic experience, where understanding when and why the dealer checks in poker can give you a competitive edge.
The future of poker may involve virtual reality tables, blockchain-based fairness, and smarter AI tools. Poker is expected to become even more immersive, secure, and global in the years ahead.
Poker has come a long way from backroom tables and dusty saloons. It continues to evolve and attract new players around the world. Whether you are playing for fun or chasing big wins, you’re taking part in a centuries-old tradition.
