Some venues will offer poker tables, while the vast majority are keeping their tables closed
Even though Las Vegas Governor Steve Sisolak has authorized casinos in the Silver State to resume operations, poker is not included in most of the casinos’ plans. It is a disappointment to all those professional poker players who are impatient to return to their usual activities after no live poker action since the coronavirus pandemic hit the country. According to the new guidelines presented by the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB), most card rooms will remain closed and, even though poker is making a return, it will do so in a totally different format.
After more than two months of no live poker action whatsoever amid the coronavirus pandemic, poker is facing a huge change in Las Vegas. Poker games are limited to a maximum of four players sitting in the table. And, while it might not be that profitable, some locations are willing to give it a shot. Four-max tables are not a usual format used in poker rooms, actually, rookie players prefer larger tables that can sit up to nine people.
For now, there are three Las Vegas poker rooms that are opening this week, hoping to attract players despite the current conditions. Venetian, one of the most popular Las Vegas poker rooms, The Orleans and South Point were the last ones to shut down amid the pandemic, but only Venetian is preparing to open its doors by June 18. Other cardrooms that have similar plans are Westgate Resort and Casino, which is close to the north end of the Strip, also opening on June 18.
Venetian came up with a few ideas to continue making poker attractive to players; something that hasn't been seen before in these places. Since only four people can be seated at a table, the poker room is hosting $100 winner-take-all sit-n-go's. As soon as four players sit on the table, the game will begin. Besides that, cash games will also be available.
