Barry Carter, a well-known analyst of the poker community, shares his expectations for 2025. Among the main predictions are the development of new formats, the increasing role of private games, new bracelet tournaments, and possible mergers of the largest online platforms. Let’s take a closer look at each of the predictions.
Double Board PLO Bomb Pots have already gained popularity in live games, and 2024 was a landmark year: the first bracelet tournament in this format was held. Carter suggests that in 2025, such games will find their place in online poker. GGPoker, as a leader in innovation, will probably be the first to implement this format. Double Board PLO Bomb Pots promise to be not only an exciting addition to cash games, but also a new challenge for players. The variety of strategies and the element of randomness make this format especially attractive to both professionals and amateurs.
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Private games are becoming the new reality of poker. The end of 2024 was marked by the launch of private tables for VIP players on GGPoker, which caused a lot of discussion in the community. This format gives recreational players the opportunity to enjoy poker without the fear of meeting professionals. The trend, popular in live poker, is gradually taking over the online space. In 2025, we can expect other platforms to offer similar features in an effort to satisfy their VIP clients.
Carter is confident that 2025 will be the year the WSOP expands its geography. The acquisition of the series by GGPoker has opened up new opportunities. Traditionally, bracelet events take place in Las Vegas, Europe (WSOPE) and WSOP Paradise, but the period from January to May remains unused. Perhaps it is during this time period that a new series of tournaments will appear, turning the WSOP into a full-fledged tournament tour, comparable to the EPT and WPT. The online poker market is reaching maturity, and this often leads to mergers. GGPoker, already a dominant player, may initiate another major takeover.
Rumors about possible mergers have been circulating for several years. In 2025, Carter expects the merger of two large platforms or the emergence of a new “skin” under the auspices of one of them. This will strengthen the position of market participants, but may reduce the number of unique offers for players.
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EPT Prague broke records in 2024, but it is not on the 2025 schedule. This is due to the expected regulatory restrictions in the Czech Republic. Carter believes that Prague could be replaced by a new stop, possibly Paris. France, with its Christmas atmosphere, looks like an ideal option for a December tournament. 2025 promises to be an era of change in poker. New formats, an increased role for private games and an expansion of the geography of tournaments will make this year eventful for players and spectators. It remains to be seen which of Barry Carter’s predictions will come true. Stay on top of online casino trends – explore must-know gaming news. Find more on our site.
