PokerStars is rolling out major rule changes across its live poker events to crack down on cheating and improve gameplay. The new rules start at the EPT Monte Carlo festival and will apply to all live events by the time EPT Barcelona kicks off in August.
One of the most talked-about updates focuses on how dealers distribute cards. Instead of flicking cards through the air using the traditional pitch method, dealers must now use slide dealing. This approach, popular in parts of Europe and Australia, involves pushing the cards along the felt directly to each player.
PokerStars explained the move in a statement, saying the change helps stop phones or smart devices from capturing card faces mid-air. Last year, officials caught several players in France using hidden cameras and tiny earpieces that were so small they could only be removed with magnets.
“Slide dealing, which will be rolled out over the coming months and implemented fully by EPT Barcelona in August, will bring consistency to its processes and regulations at all its live events,” PokerStars said in a press release.
More Changes Target Fair Play and Game Flow
Tournaments will also see other updates. Final tables will no longer run based on time. Instead, they will play a set number of hands per level. Organizers say this approach creates a fairer pace in crucial late stages of the game.
Players can no longer stall after registering. Anyone who signs up must take their seat right away, preventing strategies that avoid blinds and gain an unfair edge.
PokerStars will also ban all smart tech from tables—including watches, glasses, and rings that can transmit data. Hyper-turbo events will introduce shot clocks earlier in play, starting at level 11.
EPT Tournament Director Toby Stone said the updates reflect player feedback. “These changes are all about integrity and player experience and safety,” he said. “We’ve listened to what players want, what their concerns are… and made changes that directly address those concerns.”
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