Thread: Party Poker Monopoly?

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/4455740.stm

Players diverted

In October, Empire was forced to issue a profit warning after its users were blocked from using sites run by Partygaming.

On Monday, Empire said that its directors had looked into whether it might take legal action "in relation to damage caused to it by the conduct of companies within the Partygaming group in separating the poker system used by Partygaming players from that of its 'skins'".

"Having received legal advice, the directors intend to institute and vigorously pursue legal proceedings as soon as possible," Empire added.

Skins are online poker websites, like Empire, which divert their poker players to a software platform operated by another poker site, such as Partygaming.

While I shed no tears for Empire, I wonder if anyone else has been concerned by the way Party Poker has been treating their skin partners? Is this a sign what's in store for us down the line?

I wouldn't worry for 1 minute! We are dictated by market forces in terms of our industry so whoever is best will get us as affiliates at the end of the day. So basically they can try and monopolise but there will always be creative, new, interesting, rewarding rooms that pop-up to compete.

look at msn/google, firefox/internet explorer, etc etc... nothing to worry about!

Well it's the nature of poker which i find a little worrying. There's a huge barrier to entry with regards to the player base you need before people will stay & play.

Remember all those auction sites before Ebay became the top dog? nowadays you'd be stupid to sell your wares anywhere else as that's where all the buyers go. I believe poker will operate under a similar nature.