The Pennsylvania online poker scene just welcomed a major player with the launch of BetRivers Poker. Developed in partnership with poker pro Phil Galfond, BetRivers Poker is a reimagined version of the platform previously known as Run It Once Poker, now available for real-money play exclusively to Pennsylvania residents.
The announcement came on October 31st, via BetRivers Sportsbook social-media accounts:
While the announcement is surely a welcome surprise to players in the Key Stone state, for Galfond, who founded Run It Once eight years ago, this launch comes as the realization of a dream to bring a player-focused poker platform to the U.S. market.
From Run It Once to BetRivers Poker
Run It Once Poker, launched by Phil Galfond in 2016, originally targeted international players with its player-first approach. By 2021, the platform had gone offline, with Galfond’s team pursuing a new direction aimed at a U.S.-based market. That vision became reality when Rush Street Interactive (RSI), known for its BetRivers brand, acquired Run It Once Poker in 2022 for $5.8 million, setting the wheels in motion for today’s launch in Pennsylvania.
BetRivers Poker leverages RSI’s strong ties to Pennsylvania, with established offerings in both online and brick-and-mortar gaming through Rivers Casino locations. This connection gives BetRivers a local edge, and Galfond’s commitment to maintaining a player-focused platform remains at the core of the brand’s identity. The result is a platform combining Galfond’s original vision with RSI’s reach and resources, making BetRivers Poker a new mainstay for online poker in Pennsylvania.
Phil Galfond’s Player-First Approach
Galfond’s involvement isn’t just a historical footnote; he remains an active force behind BetRivers Poker, focusing on delivering a poker experience that caters to all skill levels. He’s led a team of former pros and experienced developers, ensuring that every design choice reflects his “player-first” philosophy.
With features like a built-in HUD (heads-up display) called HeroIQ and fair-play policies that include randomized screen names and auto-seating, BetRivers Poker aims to level the playing field. And Galfond’s ongoing role in shaping the platform resonates with many players, adding that much needed credibility to BetRivers’ Pennsylvania debut.
Features and Games on BetRivers Poker
So, what does BetRivers Poker bring to the Pennsylvania online poker scene?
As it turns out, this online poker room comes with quite a bit of novelty. Below, you’ll find just three (of the many) features that prove that BetRivers Poker means business.
- Dynamic Avatars: One of BetRivers’ most innovative additions, these avatars visually reflect opponents’ play styles in real time, offering a new way for players to size up the competition. This feature makes it easier for players to adapt their strategies based on their opponents’ tendencies.
- Cub3d Sit & Go Tournaments: Adding a twist to the classic jackpot Sit & Go format, the Cub3d tournaments allow players to multiply their buy-ins by as much as 1,500 times. This fast-paced tournament style gives players the chance to win significant rewards in just minutes, making it a unique draw for both recreational and more serious players.
- HeroIQ HUD and Fair Play Policies: BetRivers Poker brings features from the original Run It Once Poker, including HeroIQ, a built-in HUD that provides valuable gameplay insights. With fairness in mind, BetRivers uses randomized screen names and auto-seating to ensure all players have a level playing field.
BetRivers Poker’s Connection to Rush Street and Future Potential
BetRivers Poker’s launch in Pennsylvania is only strengthened by its ties to Rush Street Interactive (RSI) and its Rivers Casino locations throughout the state. This local connection gives BetRivers a strong foundation in Pennsylvania, where RSI’s presence both online and in physical casinos helps bridge digital and live gaming experiences.
Though currently available only in Pennsylvania, BetRivers Poker could expand into additional states, especially as Pennsylvania moves closer to joining the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA). If Pennsylvania joins the compact, BetRivers Poker could reach players in neighboring states like New Jersey and Delaware, adding more players to its network.
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