PokerStars’ New Jersey Launch set for March 21st

Exciting times for those looking to play online poker in the Garden State: after almost five years of no US activity, PokerStars’ New Jersey Launch will come late next month.

Update (10/3/2016): The Soft Launch has been confirmed for March 16th.

The world’s leading website to play online poker has a set a date for its return to the US market. PokerStars’ New Jersey return is scheduled for March 21st, though a “soft launch” will commence roughly a week before. The “soft launch”, a period where functionality and availability are limited, will enable regulators and PokerStars themselves to observe how the site works before it becomes fully operational.

With over 100 million user registered worldwide, PokerStars is expected to make a big impact on the local market. In addition to table games, slots and, naturally, poker, there will be chance to play Spin & Go, the popular hybrid of slot machines and poker. They will also offer the option of mobile gambling.

According to David Baazov, Amaya’s Chairman and CEO, “PokerStars is the global leader in online poker and trusted by its customers for its robust and innovative technology, world-class security and game-integrity. We are honored and excited to now bring these experiences to New Jersey.”

Previous attempts to return to state failed

According to US gambling news, PokerStars, who are owned by Amaya, tried several times previously to return to the Garden State. Before their partnership with AC’s Resorts Casino Hotel, they had tried, and failed, to purchase the Atlantic Cub Hotel. They also made two attempts to gain a license in 2013, but were thwarted by a two year suspension imposed by state authorities.

PokerStars’ New Jersey Launch only beginning of their US ambitions

Although this news is limited to New Jersey, not only local residents can enjoy the services offered. Visitors to the state are also free to use the website, so long as they remain within New Jersey’s borders. Rumors claim that Amaya hope to expand throughout the US; however, that may take some time. They will not only have to navigate each state’s gambling legislation, but hope the states can agree to collaborate with each other; otherwise, they cannot operate nationally.