Massachusetts Online Poker

Due to its relatively lower profitability for gambling companies and state legislatures, online poker is frequently considered the least esteemed among the three primary forms of online gambling. Consequently, it tends to be incorporated into broader gambling expansions instead of being independently approved.

Online poker in Massachusetts is unlikely to be established until online sports betting is operational. Furthermore, the presence of online casinos is vital for the existence of online poker in Massachusetts, as it is commonly included within online casino legislation.

Currently, there are no plans for online poker in Massachusetts. However, this page will provide updates if any progress is made in this area.

Is Online Poker Legal In Massachusetts?

At present, online poker is illegal in Massachusetts. Any websites claiming otherwise are withholding crucial information and engaging in illegal offshore operations. It is strongly advised to avoid such sites.

Regrettably, the prospects of legalizing online poker in Massachusetts appear to be distant. The state’s primary attention has been directed towards the implementation of sports betting, with retail betting commencing in late January and online sports betting commencing on March 10.

Massachusetts currently does not have any bills to legalize online poker, and there doesn’t appear to be much effort or focus on this matter. However, if neighboring states like Connecticut see a significant rise in online poker popularity and Massachusetts residents start spending a considerable amount of money there, then discussions about legalizing it in Massachusetts might arise.

Potential MA Online Poker Sites

While the legalization of online poker in Massachusetts seems unlikely in the near future, we can make educated predictions about which online poker sites would be most probable to enter the market if peer-to-peer gambling were allowed. These sites either have established connections in Massachusetts or have prioritized online poker in their business plans. Therefore, if online poker becomes accessible in the state, the following online poker companies are likely to cater to individuals seeking a game:

PokerStars

PokerStars is globally recognized as one of the largest poker platforms, attracting a significant number of players at any given moment. Its extensive range of games and formats, including exclusive creations, sets it apart from other sites. PokerStars is under the umbrella of Flutter Entertainment, which also owns FanDuel. As FanDuel has already established itself in Massachusetts as a sportsbook and DFS provider, it is probable that PokerStars will enter the market if online poker becomes legalized in the state.

BetMGM Poker/Borgata Poker

BetMGM and Borgata, both affiliated with MGM Resorts International, serve as poker sites that may not possess exceptional prestige but nonetheless present players with an array of non-hold’em game options, including seven-card stud, Pot Limit Omaha, and Omaha Hi/Lo. Given the existence of MGM Springfield in Massachusetts, it is reasonable to anticipate the involvement of BetMGM and/or Borgata in online poker, should it become available in the state.

WSOP.com

Compared to the other two options, WSOP.com is considered less certain as a potential platform for online poker with real money in Massachusetts. While it is the renowned online destination for the prestigious World Series of Poker tournament, there is a catch. Unless Massachusetts decides to join forces with other states and share its player pool, residents of Massachusetts would only be able to play against others within the state on WSOP.com. This limitation arises due to the fact that Caesars, the parent company of WSOP, does not own any properties in Massachusetts. Consequently, introducing WSOP.com in the state would face more challenges.

Will Massachusetts Share Player Pools With Other States?

Massachusetts joining the Multi-State Internet Gaming Association (MSIGA) could capture the attention of WSOP.com and other poker platforms. By becoming a member of MSIGA, Massachusetts would have the opportunity to participate in a collaborative agreement among states, enabling legal online poker sites to merge their player bases into a more extensive shared network. Consequently, poker platforms operating in MSIGA states would be able to host games with players from various locations across the United States.

By combining pools, websites can counter the decrease in traffic that occurs when they limit their audience to a specific state. Member states of the association have faced challenges in generating sufficient activity and profits due to the limited market sizes. The merging of pools leads to a diverse player base and, consequently, a larger sum of money at stake.

At present, the agreement has been signed by merely three states. The inception of the MSIGA occurred in 2015 when Nevada and Delaware formed a partnership. Later in 2017, New Jersey joined this duo. While poker room revenues and tax receipts are retained within each respective state, players from these three states can effortlessly encounter each other at the same table.

Up until now, the MSIGA has only brought benefits to a single site. WSOP.com stands out as the solitary poker network with affiliates operating in all three states. Nevertheless, this collaboration has provided players from New Jersey and Delaware the opportunity to win prestigious bracelets, all from the comfort of their own homes.

It seems that the potential for increased player pool sharing is on the rise. Following New Jersey’s participation, four additional states have legalized online poker and have already allowed or will soon allow sites to operate. These states include Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia, and Connecticut. Michigan, in particular, has shown eagerness for multi-state play and is actively engaging with MSIGA states to explore this opportunity. Given the larger populations of Michigan and Pennsylvania, the online poker market in the US is expected to expand significantly.

In essence, if Massachusetts were to consider legalizing online poker, it would be beneficial for the state to join the association. While Massachusetts has a substantial population, online poker is a product that relies on network externality, meaning its worth increases with a larger user base.

Assessing The Legality Of MA Online Poker Sites

A search on the web using terms like “Massachusetts online poker” or “MA online poker” may provide conflicting information compared to what is stated on this page. Currently, there are numerous poker websites available to Massachusetts residents that appear trustworthy and well-established. Therefore, it is natural to question the discrepancy and seek clarification.

Let’s clarify the situation because we are discussing different aspects. In Massachusetts, there are various kinds of online poker platforms that are either currently accessible or could be in the future. Hence, it is essential to address any misunderstandings.

Legal Sites

The initial category of poker sites is comprised of those that are authorized and regulated. Currently, there are no legal poker sites accessible in Massachusetts. It is evident that such sites necessitate a legal and regulatory structure to authorize and oversee their operations. The aforementioned companies, namely PokerStars, BetMGM Poker/Borgata Poker, and WSOP.com, fall under this classification.

Regrettably, the journey towards legitimacy is arduous, and there are no hopeful signs in sight for the Bay State. Despite sports betting taking precedence over online poker in Massachusetts, there is no assurance that the introduction of sports betting will pave the way for online casino or poker legislation.

Offshore Sites

The second category of websites currently available are known as offshore sites, which are situated outside the United States. These are the online platforms you can come across when searching for online poker in Massachusetts at present. As they operate outside the jurisdiction of both the US and Massachusetts regulations, they are not bound by any such rules.

Although these sites are not technically legal, they do not fall under explicit illegality as outlined in Massachusetts law. Instead, they operate in a legal gray area. However, this distinction brings along a multitude of issues, with the legal aspect being the least concerning. These sites may lack honesty and ethics, and in the event of any issues, US customers may have limited avenues for resolution.

Social Casino Sites

A completely distinct category of websites that you may come across is social casino sites, which are a completely different experience. In Massachusetts, as well as many other states, these sites provide excellent online poker opportunities. The best part is that they operate within the boundaries of the law. They achieve this by offering players the option to play poker for free, even though they also allow them to exchange their winnings for real cash prizes.

Many social gaming sites primarily emphasize slots and table games, but a few also include poker in their offerings. Among them, Global Poker stands out as the top choice due to its unique dual-currency system that allows for both entertainment play and the opportunity to win real cash prizes.

Massachusetts Online Poker Vs. Live Poker

Even though online and live poker are essentially the same game, there are numerous distinctions between them. It is crucial to comprehend these differences, regardless of your level of interest in the game. While there may be additional minor variations, the following are the most significant aspects that set apart the virtual and physical versions of poker:

• Online games have a significantly swifter pace compared to live games. In live games, players typically play around 25 to 30 hands per hour, whereas in online games, players can play over 100 hands per hour, depending on the dynamics of the table. Moreover, every action you take online is bound by a ticking clock, increasing the likelihood of having your hand folded if you run out of time.
• The skill level in online play surpasses that of live players due to three factors. Firstly, online players gain more experience by playing a larger number of hands. Additionally, they have convenient access to statistical software and other tools to improve their gameplay. Lastly, casual players find it easier to transition into live poker games from casinos, whereas online players face more difficulties in doing so.
• The cost of playing live poker is higher compared to online poker. Most live poker games require a minimum of $100 or even more, whereas online poker allows you to play for just a few cents. In fact, you can enjoy a complete online poker game for a price not much higher than a cup of coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts.
• Multitabling in online poker allows players to engage in multiple tables simultaneously, offering an advantage to those who are experienced. Certain skilled poker professionals manage to handle numerous games simultaneously, although this is not advised for beginners. Conversely, live poker players would require extraordinary abilities like acrobatics or teleportation to effectively manage more than one table in a real-life game.
• Socially speaking, it is undeniable that engaging in live experiences while playing online games is much more fulfilling. When you sit at a table with a group of eight or nine individuals for an extended period of time, you have ample chances to forge new friendships or, at the very least, be amiable. Additionally, live gaming spaces provide their own immersive auditory ambiance, with the continuous buzz of chips being shuffled and the exhilarating sounds of slot machines echoing throughout most establishments.
• Recognizing — Recognizing tells during live poker games is essential for a poker player to achieve success. Many experienced players have studied Mike Caro’s well-known book on tells, and players in all categories observe their opponents closely for any hints. While online tells do exist, they are generally more discreet and often rely on the size of bets rather than visible emotions.
• Due to the abundance of online hands, players are inevitably exposed to a greater number of bad beats. A simple internet search will yield countless threads discussing the extreme misfortune experienced by players during specific hands. In these discussions, players often attribute their losses to the poker site’s alleged misconduct. While this emotional response is understandable, a more straightforward explanation lies in the mathematical probabilities. Conversely, bad beats in live games tend to have higher costs due to the slower pace, which prolongs the recovery process.
• Online poker offers a wide range of game options, allowing players to participate in multiple formats simultaneously. For instance, one can engage in a hold’em tournament while also playing an Omaha cash game. Additionally, online platforms provide better opportunities to find and join less popular games. In contrast, live poker rooms rarely offer limit hold’em, seven-card stud, or Omaha Hi/Lo, except for the largest establishments.
• Playing live poker requires a substantial amount of time. It is considered both unwise and impolite to constantly join and leave games, and there is no assurance of getting another seat promptly after quitting. On the other hand, online players have the convenience of logging in, playing a quick 10 hands, and logging out in five minutes or even less. Therefore, if you are short on time, online poker is the ideal option for you.

Poker Games Available Online

As previously stated, online poker provides a wider range of game options compared to traditional poker rooms. The limitations of space and staff in physical poker rooms restrict their ability to offer multiple game types simultaneously. Typically, the only game available is No Limit Texas Hold’em, with occasional instances of Pot Limit Omaha in larger venues. Finding anything other than NLHE is a challenging endeavor. Conversely, in online poker, players have the opportunity to encounter various games including:

No Limit Texas Hold’em

No Limit Texas Hold’em reigns as the leading card game internationally, garnering immense popularity among prestigious tournaments worldwide. An outstanding example is the World Series of Poker Main Event, an NLHE tournament that annually determines the unofficial world champion.

One of the reasons why this game is appealing is because it is relatively simple and easy to play. Each player is dealt two cards, and they can use five community cards to form the best possible hand of five cards. The difference in value between the two initial cards means that some hands have a higher chance of winning compared to others. However, in any given hand, even the worst starting cards can turn into a valuable hand, and even inexperienced players can defeat the most skilled professionals.

It is undeniable that online poker players can always find no-limit hold’em games available on any chosen site. The only circumstance where NLHE would not be offered is if the entire poker site has ceased operations.

Pot Limit Omaha

Pot Limit Omaha is another game that players often come across, whether they are playing live or online. It shares similarities with Texas Hold’em, as players must utilize a combination of five community cards laid out on the table for each hand. Additionally, there are four rounds of betting in every Omaha hand.

In PLO, instead of receiving two cards, each player is dealt four cards. Similar to other poker games, players need to form the best five-card hand using their own cards and the community cards. However, players are required to use precisely two of their cards for each hand, and no more or less. It’s worth noting that the two cards used by a player can be different on each round, and the hand’s value can fluctuate significantly from the start to the end of the hand.

Due to the game’s format, winning hands in Omaha are generally bigger compared to hold’em. Moreover, more players tend to have valid reasons to remain in the hand in Omaha. As a result, the pots in Omaha are typically larger than those in a typical hold’em game. The implementation of pot-limit betting is actually aimed at preventing players from losing all their money within just five hands of the game starting.

Other Games

As previously stated, online poker sites may offer a range of other games. Platforms like PokerStars, being more extensive, are likely to offer a greater selection of games. Although Massachusetts lacks genuine online poker sites, you can also come across these alternative games on social platforms such as Global Poker.

• Limit Hold’em
• Omaha Eight or Better/Hi/Lo
• The game known as Five Card Omaha, Big O, or Big Mitt can be paraphrased as follows:
• Seven Card Stud
• The game is called Seven Card Stud Eight or Better, also known as Hi/Lo.
• Razz
• Badugi
• Short deck
• Pineapple
• Crazy Pineapple

Live Poker Rooms In Massachusetts

Massachusetts hosts two active poker rooms situated within its resort casinos, namely Encore Boston Harbor and MGM Springfield. These establishments have faced the challenge of navigating pandemic-induced closures in recent years, not due to outbreaks, but due to concerns regarding the potential transmission of the virus and the close proximity of poker players seated at the table.

In October 2021, MGM Springfield resumed operations of its poker room, featuring a total of 13 nine-seated tables and operating for limited hours. Since its reopening, the room has garnered significant interest from the local community, resulting in lengthy waitlists for game seats. The poker room welcomes players from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. every day.

Due to the impact of COVID-19, Encore Boston Harbor has made significant changes to its poker room operations. Previously housing a total of 74 tables, the room has undergone a major downsizing. Not only has it relocated within the casino, but it also remains closed until February 2022. Upon reopening, players will find a reduced number of tables, with only 12 available for play. This limited capacity may result in waitlisting similar to that of MGM Springfield or even worse, considering Encore’s close proximity to Boston. For the time being, the poker room will operate exclusively from Monday to Thursday, between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. However, this schedule is only temporary, as Encore plans to gradually expand its poker offerings and return to regular operations.

It is highly improbable that games other than no-limit hold ’em will be frequently available in both cases. Although there might be a few variations of Omaha during peak periods at MGM Springfield, the immense popularity of NLHE suggests that each room will prioritize and focus on the two-card game to attract the maximum number of players.

Famous Massachusetts Poker Players

Although Massachusetts may not have the same renowned poker tradition as states like Texas and California, it undeniably boasts an impressive lineup of poker players associated with the state. A remarkable number of more than twenty-five players with strong ties to Massachusetts have accumulated over $1 million solely from live tournament winnings. Among them are globally recognized players who have gained substantial fame in the poker world. Here, we provide a glimpse of this exceptional poker talent:

Dan Colman

Dan Colman, hailing from Holden, Massachusetts, holds an impressive sum of over $28 million in live tournament earnings. His most notable achievement came in 2014 when he triumphed in The Big One for One Drop, a high-stakes WSOP event requiring a $1 million buy-in. This victory granted him a staggering prize of over $15.3 million, marking the second-largest individual tournament payout in history. Despite being just 24 years old at the time, Colman had already established himself as a formidable force in the world of poker. His prowess was evident in 2013 when he became the first player ever to accumulate $1 million in winnings exclusively through hyperturbo tournaments on PokerStars.

Dan Harrington

While Dan Colman holds the record for being the most successful poker player from Massachusetts, it is another Dan who holds the title for being the most renowned. Dan Harrington, originally from Cambridge, gained fame when he became the world champion in 1995 and has amassed nearly $7 million in live tournament winnings. With two WSOP bracelets, one World Poker Tour championship, and a series of highly regarded poker strategy books under his belt, Harrington is highly respected among poker players. However, his most notable achievement is his consecutive appearances at the final table of the WSOP Main Event in 2003 and 2004, a feat that only one other player has achieved since the poker boom. Harrington’s contributions to the poker world were recognized with his induction into the Poker Hall of Fame in 2010.

Nick Petrangelo

Nick Petrangelo, hailing from Feeding Hills, Massachusetts, stands as another accomplished poker player from the state with an impressive record of over $20 million in live tournament winnings. This two-time bracelet victor, born in 1987, commands equal respect and fear both in online and live games. Notably, he has triumphed with tournament payouts surpassing $1 million on three occasions, one of which occurred in October 2021. Judging solely by his tournament earnings, he ranks among the elite top 20 poker players to ever grace the tables.

Anthony Zinno

Despite being born in Rhode Island, Anthony Zinno has strong connections to Massachusetts. Prior to pursuing a career as a professional poker player, he studied at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Suffolk Law School. He even obtained admission to the Massachusetts State Bar but eventually realized his true talents lay elsewhere. Fortunately, his decision has proven to be fruitful as he currently boasts an impressive track record with four WSOP bracelets, three WPT championships, and a staggering $11 million in live tournament winnings. Furthermore, Zinno’s recent success in 2021, including two WSOP victories, indicates that we can anticipate even more accomplishments and financial gains in his future.

Massachusetts Online Poker FAQs

Are home games legal in Massachusetts?

Indeed, poker playing in public areas, except for the two casinos, is prohibited by Massachusetts gambling law. However, engaging in private games is not restricted. Interestingly, the only forbidden practice is gambling while trespassing on private premises, which appears to present similar logistical challenges.

What is the minimum age to play Massachusetts online poker?

The age requirement to enter any casino in the state is set at 21 or above. It is uncertain if there is a specific minimum age for private games, but even if there is, it is highly unlikely that law enforcement would prioritize interrupting a low-stakes game played at a kitchen table.

Can I play at PokerStars in Massachusetts?

PokerStars is a legal and regulated entity, but it is not currently available for real money play in Massachusetts. However, you can still enjoy the PokerStars software with their play-money side. Unfortunately, residents of Massachusetts cannot access the real money features on the site.

What poker sites are legal in MA?

At present, online poker sites are prohibited under Massachusetts state law, with the exception of social casino sites. Although residents can participate in cash prize games on platforms such as Global Poker, genuine online poker sites are still deemed illegal in the state.

When will sports betting launch in Massachusetts?

As of January 31, sports betting has commenced in Massachusetts with MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor, and Plainridge Park Casino now accepting sports wagers. Additionally, on March 10, mobile sports betting apps were introduced in MA.