Imposed table caps will come into force later than expected after the GGNetwork announced its decision to delay a planned update.
Following news that the Asian-focused network is planning to limit cash game players to four tables, the developers have hit the brakes.
Although the changes will still come into play, the implementation date has been shifted from October 1 to October 28.
Delay Gives Short Deck Time to Launch
Changing the deadline means the new table limit go live just before the GGNetwork launches its version of Short Deck Hold’em.
Once in place, players on the poker network’s desktop site will be limited to four of the following cash game tables at any one time:
- VIP Games
- No-Limit Hold’em
- Pot-Limit Omaha
- All-in or Fold
- Rush & Cash
- Short Deck
Postponing the update may offer some form of reprieve for those not in favor of table caps.
When PokerStars signaled its intention to introduce a four-table limit, some described it as a ploy to increase casino activity.
For the naysayers, putting the squeeze on decreases overall activity which, in turn, pushes recreational players toward other games. For others like Phil Galfond, table limits mean fewer pros dominating the games.
“The fewer tables each pro can play, the fewer seats per table will be occupied by pros, and this will positively affect win and loss rates for everyone,” Galfond wrote on his blog in 2018.
As is the case when any online poker network implements a change, opinions are divided. However, for the GGNetwork, a table cap will keep it at the forefront of the industry, and appeal to casual players.
GGNetwork Aiming for Casual Players
According to the latest roadmap posts, the next maintenance update will also feature rakeback changes. Although cash drop rates will fall from 65 percent to 50 percent, the network’s “fish buffet” loyalty program will give players credit for Rush & Cash games.
By offering rakeback on its fast-fold tables, GGNetwork’s Jean-Christophe Antoine says overall rakeback will remain at 65 percent.
In tandem with adjusting its reward system, GGNetwork is changing the dynamics of Rush & Cash Games. Instead of button antes, the network will switch to the more familiar small blind/big blind dynamic.
The hope is that casual players will feel more comfortable with a system that’s common across standard poker formats.
Prior to the forthcoming updates, the GGNetwork introduced bubble insurance and what it calls “smart betting” in a bid to attract more players.
As the third-largest online poker operator behind IDNPoker and PokerStars, GGNetwork is hoping its next set of innovations will interest the casual poker market and, in time, help it become the industry leader.
