888poker Review
$25
| Bonus Offer | 9.5 |
|---|---|
| Game Variety | 6.5 |
| Interface | 7.5 |
| Payment Options | 9 |
| Customer Support | 9 |
$25 Bonus Terms:
- Valid for new player accounts
- $10 online cash winnings subject to real money deposit
- $15 tournament cash
- Promotion is valid from Jan. 1, 2020 – Dec. 31, 2020
$1000 Deposit Match Bonus Terms:
- Offer expires after 7 days
- Bonus cash releases in 10% increments
- Must complete wager requirements within 7 days of deposit
- Bonus valid from Jan. 1, 2020 – Dec. 31, 2020.
UPDATE: WE DON'T CURRENTLY RECOMMEND 888 POKER NJ. CHECK OUT OUR MAIN PAGE ABOUT ONLINE GAMBLING IN THE US.
888poker is known internationally as one of the oldest online poker operators dating back to the early 2000s. Part and parcel of the 888 empires, players in New Jersey, Delaware, and Nevada, can play online poker together. Also, in the Garden State, players can play at 888casino and 888sport. Best of all, 888poker offers a welcome no deposit bonus along with a generous matched deposit bonus.
Along with some fun new features such as Play with Friends for private online poker games and BLAST Poker, my in-depth review also covers the negatives, such as a small player pool and a Poker Rewards Program that no longer exists.
- Play with Friends private online poker games
- No deposit bonus
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Fun turbo structure of BLAST Poker
- Lack of ongoing promotions
- Small player pool
- The desktop client is outdated
888poker Welcome Bonus
New players at 888poker NJ are welcome with a generous welcome package of two bonuses. To begin with, you receive $20 Free! Make your new player account and be rewarded with money to try 888 out. Then, when you are ready to make a real-money deposit, receive a deposit match bonus of up to $1,500!
$20 No Deposit Bonus
Receive an incredibly generous $20 no deposit required bonus just for registering a new account at 888poker. Moreover, the $20 bonus is not exclusive to just poker; you can play casino games as well!
Here’s how the $20 breaks down:
- $10 in Free Play for 888casino
- 6 $1 Tournament Tickets for 888poker NJ
- $4 bonus cash for use at either casino or poker
Deposit Match of up to $1,500
When you decide to make a real money deposit, receive up to $1,500 in bonus money! Basically, 888poker is matching your deposit up to $1,500. However, keep in mind there is a minimum required deposit of $10 to take advantage of this offer.
How to Claim the Free Bonus and Deposit Match
- Join and register a new player account at 888poker NJ.
- Download the 888poker desktop client or mobile app.
- Claim the $20 Free Bonus in an email that 888 sends when the account is verified.
- Make your first real-money deposit at 888poker of at least $10.
- Wager and release your deposit match bonus up to $1,500.
888poker Bonus Terms
- $4 bonus cash, tournament tickets, and $10 Free Play must all be used within seven days of crediting to your account.
- Winnings resulting from tournament tickets can be withdrawn immediately with no additional wagering requirements.
- $4 bonus cash converts to real money by accumulating 3 status points for every $1 or 30x in casino games.
- $10 Free Play subject to 30x wagering requirement.
- A deposit match bonus can be used at 888casino and 888poker.
- Bonus is considered pending, meaning you need to play through 10 bonus points per $1.
- Bonus cash releases in $10 increments.
- The offer expires 90 days from the initial deposit.
- The bonus offer began on July 10, 2017, and is ongoing.
How to Release the 888 Welcome Bonus
To begin with, you need to earn bonus points to release the bonus. Here is how the Bonus Points (BPs) break down:
- Poker Cash Games: 2 BPs for every $1 of contributed rake.
- Poker Tournaments: 2 BPs for every $1 of tournament fees.
- Casino Games: 1 BP for every $10 wagered in casino games.
Thus, you can choose how you’d like to release the deposit match bonus. Typically, I recommend steering clear of tournaments for releasing a bonus due to the time constraints. I usually recommend grinding out some micro-stakes cash games as the best way to clear a poker bonus. In the case of 888poker, I would suggest that and possibly playing some casino games, especially if you are close to the expiration date of the bonus. Due to a lower player pool, you may not always find poker cash games.
Ongoing Promotions
888poker lacks in ongoing player promotions. Typically, you may find some type of extra tournament ticket of freerolls. However, don’t expect 888poker to offer any Sit & Go Leaderboards on the regular.
Notably, you can peruse the past promotions to note that there are reload bonuses and rarely boosted tournament guarantees. Ongoing promotions gear more towards 888sport and 888casino.
Poker Games at 888
Here at 888poker, there is an assortment of online poker games and variants. Whether looking for low stakes or medium stakes, 888poker has it. Additionally, if you are new to poker, 888poker NJ has excellent and in-depth poker guides.
Join me as I share all the details about 888poker’s games, from multi-table tournaments to cash games and even specialty games like BLAST poker.
Multi-table Tournaments
Please make no mistake, I’m more partial to WSOP’s multi-table tournaments and even how to find plus register tournaments. The most annoying aspect of 888poker is the inability to see upcoming tournaments that occur more than 24 hours ahead of time. With the shared player pool, you do see lots of tournaments overlapping.
Unfortunately, one of 888poker’s former strong points, freerolls, particularly the VIP Freerolls, is no longer offered. Moreover, 888 Poker NJ is not known for special tournament series. By and large, WSOP.com shines larger than 888poker in tournaments despite sharing liquidity.
Below, these weekly multi-table tournaments also run at WSOP:
- Daily $5,000
- Daily $10,000
- $30,000 Weekly Sunday
$30,000 Weekly Sunday
Every Sunday, there is the Weekly $30,000 guaranteed. Directly buy-in or satellite in for $200. Again, this bears repeating that this tournament also shares liquidity with WSOP.
Sunday Major Comparison
| Poker Room | MTT Name | Buy-in | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|
 888poker | $30,000 Weekly Sunday | $200 | $30,000 |
 WSOP.com | $100k Sunday | $320 | $100,000 |
 BetMGM Poker | Sunday $35k | $215 | $35,000 |
You may say that I am unfair by comparing WSOP in my Sunday Major comparison as the two online poker rooms share liquidity. However, I would state that I specifically placed WSOP.com $100k Sunday to show that although the two sites share liquidity, WSOP still boasts the most significant guarantee and biggest tournament.
Nonetheless, the buy-in is around $100 more compared to the competition. Yet, the $100k guarantee amount more than makes up for the higher buy-in. As 888poker improves, I’d like to make another comparison in the future.
Cash Games
On the whole, yes, cash games do run at 888poker. However, the vast majority of players online are WSOP.com players, rather than players on 888. Thus, expect cash game selection to be minimal. Even with the shared liquidity, you may see the highest stakes at $0.50/$1 no limit hold’em only. Indeed, this issue is not just exclusive to 888poker; online poker worldwide traffic shows that cash games are less popular than tournaments.
Hold’em
The majority of the player action centers around no limit hold’em. In fact, it is difficult even to find a limit or pot limit game running. On the other hand, you will find many micro-stakes NLHE tables running, particularly up to the $0.05/$0.10 range.
Omaha
Occasionally, you will see a micro stakes Pot Limit Omaha table running. Forget about finding a PLO8 (PLO Hi/Lo) table. Although 888 offers this, it rarely runs.
Stud
Theoretically, yes, there is a Stud tab located in the 888poker desktop client. On the other hand, if you click on it, a pop-up appears that states, ‘There are no games available.’ Thus, while 888poker would have you believe that Stud is offered, it is, in fact, not available.
BLAST Poker
888 Poker advertises BLAST Poker as “the ultimate jackpot sit & go.” In detail, four players makeup one BLAST sit & go. Then, a drawing takes place as soon as there are four players. This drawing determines the multiplier where you could play for a prize pool up to 10,000, the amount of your buy-in.
Then, a BLAST timer begins the countdown when all players are seated. The BLAST timer is determined by how big the multiplier of the prize pool is. Once the timer runs out, all remaining players are all-in until there is one winner.
To add some suspense, note that the prize pool is a mystery until the game begins. Choose from the following buy-ins for BLAST Sit & Gos:
- $0.10
- $1
- $5
- $30
Most importantly, if you are using a Mac OS version of the 888 Poker desktop software, BLAST games are not supported. Definitely, 888poker needs to work towards BLAST games being integrated into the Mac desktop client.
Sit-n-Gos
Not surprisingly, Sit & Gos at 888poker also suffers from a lack of players. Yet, it must be said that most online poker rooms do not have high stakes sit-n-gos running regularly. Choose from a sit-n-go format of:
- Heads-up
- 6-max
- Turbo
- Standard
- Omaha
- No-Limit Hold’em
At 888poker, rarely will you find sit & gos filling quickly above the $5 buy-in mark. Although there are Omaha (PLO and PLO8) sit-n-gos available, these rarely run as well. If you insist on playing Omaha sit & gos, it is best to try to start a game during peak evening hours. Finally, if you are trying to play a higher stakes sit-n-go, heads-up may be your best choice at finding an opponent.
Play with Friends
Desire your own private poker game? Do you only want to play with your own friends? 888poker recently unveiled ‘Play with Friends’ for US players. Previously, Play with Friends was only available internationally.
Now, at 888poker NJ, you can host your own private online poker game and invite friends:
- Navigate to the ‘Extra Games’ tab and click on ‘Play with Friends.’
- Now, you need to set up a poker game, such as cash games or tournaments.
- Invite friends that you want to join your private poker game!
Please note that Play with Friends is only available on the desktop client only. Currently, you cannot use the Play with Friends feature on 888poker mobile apps.
888poker Mobile App
888poker does offer a mobile app for Android and iOS devices. Even in the Apple App Store, it is clear that 888 NJ suffers from a lack of a player pool. In detail, there are just not many app reviews. Also, even reviewers of the app complain about the lack of a player pool.
Besides, some glitches need fixing and features that need to be added. In particular, Play with Friends is not available on the mobile app. BLAST Poker is also not available on the mobile app. The main glitch that occurs is the freezing of the mobile app. Updates occur around once a calendar year on average, which is not much at all.
How to Download
- Navigate to the 888poker main website on your mobile device’s browser.
- Tap the yellow ‘Play Now’ button located in the top right corner.
- The 888poker download process will automatically detect your mobile device’s operating system.
- Next, launch and run the 888poker program after download. Note: for Android devices, you may need to allow downloads from ‘Unknown Sources.’
Desktop Client Interface
Overall, 888 Poker’s desktop client leaves a lot to be desired but has more capabilities than the mobile app. The installation process looks completely outdated from the late 1990s. Also, there are just not many filtering or navigation features.
Yet, the main gripe and downside to 888 Poker is the multi-table tournament tab. In detail, you cannot see upcoming tournaments or completed tournaments in the past 24 hours. For example, multi-table tournament aficionados like to plan their tournament play. Peruse big tournaments before the weekend, and attempting to satellite in for a lower amount is often scheduled. As you recall, the 888 Poker software also powers WSOP.com, so it makes no sense why the desktop interface is not more navigable and player-friendly.
On the other hand, 888 did introduce ‘Play with Friends’ into the desktop client. Thus, it could be that 888 Holdings is overhauling certain aspects of 888poker, such as the Rewards Program.
Payment Methods and Withdrawal Limits
At 888 Poker New Jersey, all payment methods and funds are secure and safe. Now, there are pros and cons to each banking method. Moreover, there are only three withdrawal methods offered. Nonetheless, 888poker provides some of the most popular payment methods, and most people should be able to use a method that suits their lifestyle.
Additionally, if you have previously deposited with 888poker and need to reload your account again, Quick Deposit is available. When you join a tournament or table, look for the ‘Deposit’ button. If you need a quick reload, click on the button, and your last approved payment method that is Quick Deposit eligible, will appear.
The minimum deposit for all of the accepted payment methods by 888 Poker NJ is $10. Notably, 888poker reserves the right to vary deposit and withdrawal limits for each customer. Typically, these limits are set after a review of your account. Regardless, if you need to adjust or increase your limits, make sure to contact Customer Support.
| Withdrawal Method | Minimum Limits | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Transfer (ACH) | $10 | Up to 6 days |
| PayPal | $20 | 4-5 Days |
| Play+ | $10 | 4-5 Days |
| Cash at Cage | No limit | Up to 24 Hours |
| Check in Mail | $50 | 5-8 Days |
If you are a Gold VIP 888casino member, the processing time is often shorter by around half the amount.
Featured Payment Method
If you’re looking to play at any of the 888 platforms, consider using the 888 Play+ Prepaid Card. Firstly, the Play+ card boasts a low rate of decline for funding your player account. Secondly, you can move your funds around whether depositing or withdrawing quickly. The 888 Play+ Card is accepted everywhere. Discover cards are along with thousands of ATMs worldwide.
Once you apply for the Play+ card, note that you can immediately fund your player account. Although, note that the actual Play+ card takes around 10-14 days to arrive at your physical mailing address.
Legal and Secure
888poker in New Jersey is fully licensed along with regulated by the Division of Gaming Enforcement. Regulation means that 888poker offers the highest level of fairness and integrity. Additionally, player funds and information are safe and secure.
| 888poker Company Overview | |
|---|---|
| Parent Company: | 888 Holdings PLC |
| Software: | Dragonfish Technologies |
| New Jersey Partner | Caesars Atlantic City Casino |
| Address: | 2100 Pacific Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
| Licence: | NJIGP 19-007 |
| International Licenses: | UK, Gibraltar, Germany, Italy, Spain, Denmark, and more |
| Phone: | (855) 218-6234 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
Overview of 888poker in the US
888poker did not always exist with the name ‘888.’ In fact, the origins of 888poker dates back to 2002, where the online poker room was originally known as Pacific Poker. Internationally, 888poker enjoys a prominent brand presence and a large player base.
Notably, Delaware is a state that legalized online poker. 888poker partnered with the Delaware Lottery to operate. Thus, three casinos in Delaware all offer online poker on the 888 platforms:
- Delaware Park
- Dover Downs
- Harrington Raceway
Additionally, 888poker sponsors the famous World Series of Poker, which is owned by Caesars Entertainment. Thus, the 888poker software powered by Dragonfish Technologies also powers the WSOP.com software. To this end, 888poker and WSOP Online operate with a shared player pool for online poker. Therefore, online poker players from New Jersey, Delaware, and Nevada on 888poker and WSOP.com platforms participate in the shared player interstate compact and can play against each other online.
Expansion
Online poker also officially launched in Pennsylvania in Nov. 2019. 888poker has gained approval from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB), but the launch does not seem likely until 2021. When 888poker PA launches, rest assured that this review will be updated.
On the other hand, when 888poker PA does launch, do not expect the Keystone State to join in on the interstate compact. Players from PA will be ringed-in, playing only amongst themselves. Due to the ongoing Wire Act litigation, the PGCB has not approved a shared player pool.
Now, Michigan and West Virginia are two new states where online poker is officially legal. However, no move has been made by 888poker to launch in those states yet. If the Wire Act litigation resolves favorably for online gaming, expect to see players from the following states in a shared player pool.
Responsible Gambling
On the whole, 888 Poker NJ stresses the importance of responsible gambling. If you find yourself playing beyond your limits and means, know that 888poker offers tools to help you. In detail, you can set your own limitations through your own player account.
- Playing Time: set your own daily limit for the amount of time spent on the 888 platforms. Note that your limit renews automatically, so if you are looking to decrease your limit, you may need to wait a day.
- Deposits: set your own deposit limit either daily, weekly, or monthly. Once you hit this limit, a pop-up notifies you that you cannot deposit anymore. Increases to this limit only take place after the expiration of the first limit.
- Loss Limit: set your own limit to restrict or budget the maximum amount you can lose either in a day, week, or month. Once you hit the limit, you may not continue to play for real money. Again, as with the other limits above, you need to wait for an expiration period until you can request a limit increase.
Other measures available at 888Poker include a cooling-off where your account is suspended for:
- 1 Week
- 2 Weeks
- 1 Month
- 2 Months
- 3 Months
- 5 Months
Finally, you can also self-exclude yourself for one year to 5 years at 888 NJ through the ‘My Account’ page. If you need to self-exclude completely from all gaming operators, you may do so by filing a request at the physical NJDGE office.
Other 888 Products
No Rewards Program
Previously, 888poker NJ had a rewards program that differentiated status and tiers. As part of the rewards program, players even had Rewards Freerolls. Unfortunately, the Poker Rewards program ended officially at 888poker on Oct. 1, 2020.
Rewards Freerolls that were previously scheduled was canceled. However, existing Rewards Program members can convert the remaining points until Jan. 1, 2021.
888poker has not released any news on whether a new rewards program will be unveiled or if any promotions take part in the previous rewards program. Additionally, if you click on the ‘Rewards’ page on 888poker’s main website, it is a broken link, which 888poker should remedy.
24/7 Customer Service
On the one hand, 888poker offers 24/7 customer support, which is a plus. On the other hand, there is no Live Chat support for 888. Also, note that emails sometimes require a follow-up before you receive a response. Thus, my preference for contacting customer support at 888 is with a phone call.
Also, there is a very decent FAQ or Help section at 888poker. Without a doubt, I recommend searching there first before contacting customer support. In fact, the FAQ section tends to be updated even before other parts of the website.
For example, the 888poker FAQ section revealed that the previous Rewards Program is no longer active. Also, the FAQ detailed out what to do with the remaining points. On the other hand, the website still contains links to the previous Rewards Program page, which is now a non-existing page. Therefore, it is very worthwhile to check the FAQ sections.
How to Contact
Final Verdict
Overall, 888poker does not score high marks throughout the review. To begin with, the software client and mobile app just look and feel outdated. Then, there is a small player pool. On top of that, players cannot even look ahead to see what tournaments are upcoming past a 24-hour timeframe. Also, there is no more Poker Rewards Program. Finally, there is a lack of ongoing promotions. Frankly, the only real strong point of 888poker is the no deposit welcome bonus just for making a new player account.
888poker Review FAQs
How do I download 888 poker?
Head to the 888poker main website on your desktop browser or mobile device browser. Then, click on the yellow ‘Play Now’ button. Your download process will automatically begin. Follow the instructions to finish the download and installation process. When you make a new player account, take advantage of a no deposit bonus plus a matched deposit offer.
When is 888poker PA launching?
888poker has gained regulatory approval in Pennsylvania. However, it may be that WSOP.com launches which use the 888poker software platform. Additionally, the launch date keeps getting pushed back. Currently, 888poker PA is slated to launch sometime in 2021. This is partly due to the ongoing Wire Act litigation and online poker, making up a small share of overall online gaming revenue.
Can I play on 888poker in the US?
Yes, 888poker in the US is currently legal in certain states. New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware all share a player pool that operates on the 888poker software. Additionally, 888poker will launch in Pennsylvania, possibly in 2021. Finally, online poker is also now legal in Michigan and West Virginia. Although 888 has not indicated that online poker will launch there, it will be just a matter of time in theory.
Can I play on 888poker in California?
Unfortunately, not at the moment. California has not passed any legislation for online poker for real money. Technically, Californians could make a short trip depending on where they are located to Nevada, where 888poker is legal. However, outside of that, Californian residents will need to wait for the state legislature to legalize online poker.
Specification: 888poker Review
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