RSI launches proprietary BetRivers Poker platform in Pennsylvania

Rush Street Interactive (RSI) has announced the official launch of its proprietary online poker platform in Pennsylvania, in partnership with poker pro Phil Galfond. The company called it a milestone in its broader poker strategy, offering "a unique player-first experience designed by poker players, for poker players."

According to RSI, the new BetRivers Poker platform was crafted through continuous real-time feedback "from those who know the game best," including the senior leadership team, many of whom are former professional poker players themselves. 

"Their hands-on involvement has ensured that every feature, from game variety to reward systems, serves the poker community authentically," the company said.

Today is the day! I’m thrilled to announce the launch of #BetRiversPoker in Pennsylvania.

We built this platform with poker players in mind every step of the way.

Check us out now, and stay tuned! I’ll share some big news in a few days 👀

— Phil Galfond (@PhilGalfond) October 31, 2024

RSI calls Phil Galfond's involvement "a key differentiator of the BetRivers Poker platform," with the poker pro acting not just as an ambassador, but as a partner in its design and development. As a professional poker player and industry innovator, Galfond brings invaluable insight into the game, ensuring the platform is finely tuned to meet the needs of poker players at every level, the company said.

"As poker players, we designed this platform from the ground up to be for the players – all players. From the amateur playing their very first hand to the sophisticated pro, everyone was kept in mind as we focused on fairness, excitement, and generous rewards that truly benefit the player," said Phil Galfond. "I’ve been heavily involved in the game design, promotions, and policy decisions, and, more importantly, in building an incredible team that sees online poker the way I do."

Features and game variety

BetRivers Poker offers a suite of game formats, including cash games, Sit & Go tournaments, and Multi-Table Tournaments (MTTs), seeking to cater to players of all skill levels. 

The platform also introduces features like Dynamic Avatars, which provide players with real-time insights into their opponents’ play styles. These avatars dynamically adjust their expressions based on the opponent's behavior, offering an intuitive and engaging way to read the competition. Additionally, the Cub3d Sit and Go Tournaments (SNGs) allow players to win up to 1500x their buy-in in minutes.

RSI also notes that its collaboration with the poker rooms at Rivers Casinos in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia enhances the poker experience for retail players, offering additional rewards and promotions that connect online and in-person play. 

Retail players can enjoy integrated rewards and transitions between digital and live poker environments, making it easier to engage and play across both platforms, RSI adds. This omnichannel approach adds value to Rivers Casino’s poker community while offering players the benefits of playing both online and live.

"We are incredibly excited about the launch of this platform. Our goal is to create a seamless experience for players, bridging the gap between the BetRivers digital and Rivers Casino offerings," said Richard Schwartz, Chief Executive Officer of Rush Street Interactive. 

Richard Schwartz, CEO of RSI

"By aligning with Rush Street Gaming’s strong retail presence, we are able to leverage our combined strengths to offer a truly unique poker experience that benefits players and drives growth across our entire portfolio."

Tim Drehkoff, Chief Executive Officer of Rush Street Gaming, added: "This launch reinforces our commitment to offering Rivers Casino’s guests a wide variety of gaming options. By integrating online and in-person poker, we’re not only enhancing the player experience but also providing a seamless loyalty and rewards program. We’re committed to continuing to innovate and provide value to our players."

BertRivers Poker integrated with iRush Rewards program

RSI also informs that BetRivers Poker will offer among the lowest rake in Pennsylvania. Players also benefit from poker’s integration into the BetRivers iRush Rewards program, where they can earn and redeem points across both digital and retail properties. 

"This cross-vertical integration highlights RSI’s dedication to delivering value across all gaming verticals, including online casinos and sportsbooks, with poker expected to drive a substantial overall revenue uplift," the company adds.

Furthermore, BetRivers Poker’s reach will be expanded through its association with the Poker Night in America (PNIA) series, owned by RSI. BetRivers Poker will appear across PNIA’s platforms, including social media, streaming, and its TV show, with plans to increase its presence over time.

The BetRivers online poker platform will initially launch in Pennsylvania, with plans to expand into additional jurisdictions as part of RSI’s long-term strategy.