Sky Poker is a prominent online poker platform that has gained significant popularity over the years. This platform stands out from the competition with its unique features, including live poker games, interactive community, and television integration through Sky Poker TV. This article provides an in-depth analysis of Sky Poker, exploring its software, rakeback, compatibility, customer reviews, and more.
Sky Poker Software and Compatibility
Sky Poker is an innovative platform that utilizes instant play software powered by a flash application. This feature allows players to access the platform directly through their browsers, making it compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems. The platform operates on an independent network and holds licenses from the AGCC and the UK gaming authorities.
Instant Play and Sky Poker TV
One of the unique features of Sky Poker is its integration with Sky Poker TV, enabling players to play online poker on their television through satellite. To access the televised games, players must have an existing Sky Poker account. Once registered, players can participate in live tournaments, which are announced and railed just like in real games.
The Sky Poker software also supports Action Tables, providing higher stakes and more action-oriented games for players seeking a more engaging experience. Additionally, Sky Poker players can access the Sky Bet sportsbook, Sky Vegas casino, and Sky Bingo for a holistic gaming experience.
Sky Poker Rakeback
Sky Poker offers a rakeback program that provides up to 30% rakeback for players meeting monthly play volume requirements. The platform uses a tiered system based on the number of Poker Points earned per month, with higher volume players receiving automatic rakeback payments.
Rakeback Payments and Levels
To receive rakeback, players must opt-in using the code REWARDS on their 'My Account' page. The various reward levels and effective rakeback percentages are as follows:
- Bronze: 100 - 2,999 points – 6% cash rakeback, 10% MTT/SNG rakeback
- Silver: 3,000 - 4,999 points – 9% cash rakeback, 15% MTT/SNG rakeback
- Gold: 5,000 - 9,999 points – 12% cash rakeback, 20% MTT/SNG rakeback
- Priority Bronze: 10,000 - 19,999 points – 20% rakeback + Priority Club benefits
- Priority Silver: 20,000 - 29,999 points – 25% rakeback + Priority Club benefits
- Priority Gold: 30,000+ points – 30% rakeback + Priority Club benefits
Players earn 6 Poker Points per £1 rake in cash games and 10 Poker Points per £1 in MTT/SNG fees. Bronze, Silver, and Gold level players receive their Sky Poker Rewards cash on the 5th business day of the following month, while Priority level players receive their rakeback on the 1st business day and can request early payments up to once per month.
Customer Reviews and Experiences
Sky Poker has received mixed reviews from customers, with some praising its unique features and user-friendly software, while others criticize the platform for perceived rigging and poor customer support.
Positive Reviews
Many customers appreciate the platform's unique features, such as the integration with Sky Poker TV, the flash-based poker room, and the Action Tables. Some users also commend the site for its user-friendly software, clean and simple table designs, and the Hot-O-Meter, which helps beginners assess their hand strength.
Negative Reviews
On the other hand, some customers have raised concerns about the platform's fairness, claiming that certain players seem to have an unfair advantage. However, these claims have not been substantiated, and many experienced players dismiss these accusations as typical complaints from losing players.
Some users have also criticized Sky Poker's customer support, stating that the representatives lack knowledge about the game and provide generic solutions to issues. Additionally, there have been reports of long waiting times for customer support responses.
Sky Poker £10 Free Offer
New players at Sky Poker can benefit from a free £10 offer in the form of 2 x £2.20 and 2 x £3.30 MTT tokens. This promotion provides an excellent opportunity for new users to try out the platform without any financial commitment.
Sky Poker Rake Structure
Sky Poker's rake structure varies depending on the stakes and the number of players involved. For example, at stakes of £0.05/£0.10 and lower, the rake percentage is 7.5%, with a maximum rake of £0.70 for two players and £1.40 for three or more players. For stakes of £0.10/£0.25 and higher, the rake percentage is 5%, with a maximum rake of £1.00 for two players and £1.80 for three or more players. Sky Poker uses the weighted contributed rake method.
Changes in Loyalty Scheme
In May 2013, Sky Poker switched to a new loyalty scheme called "Sky Poker Rewards," replacing the previous "Cash for Points" program. The primary difference between the two systems is that high volume players now receive flat rakeback rather than having to cash in their points.
Conclusion
Sky Poker is a unique and innovative online poker platform that offers a wide range of features, including live poker games, television integration, and a user-friendly instant play software. While some customers have raised concerns about fairness and customer support, the platform has received many positive reviews for its unique offerings and engaging gaming experience. With its rakeback program, new player promotions, and compatibility with various devices, Sky Poker is an online poker platform worth considering for both novice and experienced players.