PokerStars’ popular Power Path promotion just got a major tweak, and it’s great news for players looking to qualify for big poker events. Starting October 14th, 2024, the buy-in for Step 4 is being slashed from $109 to $55, making it easier for more players to get their hands on those all-important tickets.
This move is aimed at giving more players — especially those with smaller bankrolls — a shot at competing for Power Passes, which offer access to some of the biggest live and online poker tournaments hosted by PokerStars. With the changes just around the corner, let’s break down what’s new and how it all works.
What is the Power Path?
For those unfamiliar, Power Path is PokerStars’ way of giving everyday players the chance to win entry to major poker events without needing to fork out massive buy-ins upfront. It’s a four-step qualifying system that allows you to start small and work your way up, regardless of how deep your pockets are.
Think of it as a step-by-step journey. You start at Step 1 with a tiny buy-in (or even for free, thanks to daily tickets), and with each win, you climb to the next step. The ultimate goal?
Securing a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Power Pass that unlocks access to tournaments like the European Poker Tour (EPT) or the World Championship of Online Poker (WCOOP).
What’s Changing in Power Path?
The biggest update to Power Path comes at Step 4. Starting October 14th, PokerStars is reducing the buy-in from $109 to $55. This change means more tickets will be available in Step 3, giving more players a shot at reaching the final step. Previously, Step 4 tickets could also be used for other PokerStars tournaments like the Sunday Million, but that’s changing too. From now on, the $55 Step 4 tickets will be exclusively for Power Path events.
And if you’ve already got a $109 Step 4 ticket?
Don’t worry — PokerStars has you covered. You can either use it before the change kicks in, swap it for two $55 tickets, or save it for selected online events like the Sunday Million.
How Power Path Works
Here’s a quick refresher on how Power Path breaks down:
- Step 1 – $0.50 Spin & Go
Your journey starts with a $0.50 buy-in (or a free daily ticket). These Spin & Go’s offer a range of prizes, but the most common reward is a ticket to Step 2. It’s quick, it’s fun, and it’s your first step on the path to bigger things. - Step 2 – $1 Sit & Go or $1.50 MTT
Now things get interesting. You’ve got two options here: a $1 Sit & Go with 16 players, or a $1.50 Multi-Table Tournament (MTT). Either way, a win in Step 2 moves you up to Step 3, bringing you one step closer to that elusive Power Pass. - Step 3 – $11 MTT
At Step 3, you’ll need to battle it out in an $11 buy-in MTT. This is the last stage where you can buy in directly—after this, you’re going to need to win your way through. - Step 4 – $55 MTT (no direct buy-in)
This is the final hurdle. Step 4 is now a $55 MTT, and it’s where the big prizes come into play. No direct buy-ins here—you’ve got to earn your spot. Win here, and you could walk away with a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Power Pass, unlocking access to some of PokerStars’ biggest events.
Power Path Prizes
So, what’s at stake? Power Path offers three key prizes, all of which grant entry to major poker events. Here’s a breakdown of what each pass offers:
- Bronze Power Pass – $109
This pass can be used for a range of PokerStars tournaments, including the Sunday Million, or exchanged for a bundle of tournament tickets. It’s perfect for players who want flexibility and variety in their play. - Silver Power Pass – $2,500
With a Silver Pass, you’ll get buy-ins and expenses covered for events like WCOOP or PokerStars Championship tournaments. It’s a solid prize that could launch you into some serious competition. - Gold Power Pass – $10,300
This is the top-tier prize. A Gold Pass gives you the full VIP experience at live events like the EPT, covering buy-ins, hotel stays, travel expenses, and more. You’ll even get exclusive merchandise and live event support to make the whole trip unforgettable.
Why These Changes Matter for Casual Players
This change isn’t just about lowering a buy-in; it’s about leveling the playing field. By making Step 4 more affordable, PokerStars is opening the door for more recreational players to compete in the final stage. And since there’s no option for direct buy-ins at Step 4, everyone—whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time pro—has to earn their place.
It’s also a move that ensures that big events, both live and online, aren’t dominated by professional players. Instead, PokerStars wants to see more casual players taking their shot at the big time, giving them a real chance to qualify for marquee events like the EPT.
So, if you’ve always dreamed of playing poker on the biggest stage but thought it was out of reach, the revamped Power Path might be the perfect opportunity for you to make that dream a reality.
Photo Credit: Joe Giron
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