It’s go time for PokerStars players in Ontario, Canada. After reverting to a provincially-regulated market earlier this year, Stars became the latest operator to launch in Ontario on Tuesday.
The company announced that the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) granted the company a full registration to operate.
“In many respects Ontario is our home market, given the first ever hand of PokerStars was played here over 20 years ago, so we are thrilled about the new regulated environment within which our players can play,” PokerStars managing director of marketing Tom Warren said in a news release.
“A lot has changed in that time, but our commitment to offering our players the most epic and thrilling experience in the market hasn’t – and we can’t wait to get started.”
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Details on PokerStars’ Ontario launch
Since regulating the market, Ontario players will now find a “ringed-in” environment as seen in most legalized US states. Players will play only against others within that province.
The new legal registration provides for a regulated PokerStars-branded offering for Ontario players. This is a similar setup for Stars players in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.
The legal registration also authorizes PokerStars’ three verticals of online poker, casino gaming, and sports betting. The new platform features a localized schedule as well.
Online gamers will find more than 5,000 games, poker, blackjack and more. Players will find a seamless in-app and online experience.
Tournament series in the works
Players heading to PokerStars Ontario can already expect some major tournament action with the launch of the new platform. To mark the occasion, the site will host the Ontario Platinum Series from July 10-18 with a $1 million guaranteed prize pool.
“There is much more ahead in Ontario this summer with epic events and experiences in the works for players who join the PokerStars family,” the company noted in announcing the launch. Some of that includes:
- a new rewards program giving players double rewards throughout July and August
- a new weekly flagship event known as the New Sunday Major with a $100,000 guaranteed prize pool
- exclusive with promotions with its gaming partner Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment
For Canadian players outside Ontario, PokerStars will continue to serve these players with the international platform.