Absolute Poker Room Review
While Absolute’s software is functional, it is not at the industry’s leading edge. Graphics for example, are in need of improvement in texture and overall “realistic” quality. The animations are slow and sound effects are not of great quality. In Absolute’s defense, navigation and operation is smooth and trouble free. Basic, drab presentation is one feature that should be overcome in such a highly competitive market. A strong point for Absolute is its work on tournaments. Many have no restrictions and a good variety in both short and multi-table are available. Game variety is fair, including Texas Hold'em, Omaha, Omaha Hi/Lo , 7 Card Stud and 7 Card Stud Hi/Lo, along with WSOP qualifiers. A recent criticism is that the Hold’em variety could be improved. This may be a factor in relatively lower traffic volumes. Higher stake players are not frequent on the site, given that the majority of the action occurs in the $1/$2 and micro games. Peak time traffic is at about 1,500 ring game cash players with marginally higher volumes in tournament games. Absolute Poker offers an initial deposit bonus of 100% at a maximum of $500. Occasionally, there are super bonus offers that go beyond this. Receiving the payout though, comes with a set of conditions through a gradual release formula. A player must receive Absolute Reward Points by playing a minimum number of games. For example, one reward point comes with a rake of at least $0.25 in $2/$4 or less. Every $10 of the bonus requires 100 Absolute Reward Points. In terms of loyalty to the site, has a similar point structure. The higher the stakes, the greater the points received. These reward points can then be used for freerolls, tournaments, or merchandise. An accumulation of 500 raked hands gives a player an Absolute Reward card which guarantees VIP treatment at site hosted tournaments. Referring a friend also brings rewards. A successful referral gives an extra $100 to a player’s account. The referred friend also reaps a $50 bonus. To qualify for the referral bonus, the referred has to deposit at least $50 and play a minimum of 100 raked hands. There is also a bonus for using NETeller. A first-time deposit or reload using NETeller gives $10. For customer support, Absolute Poker uses only email. While the absence of telephone support is a drawback, email response is quick. A frequently asked questions section on the site is very helpful as well. As for transactions, deposits can be made by credit card, NETeller, FirePay, CentralCoin, Electronic Check, bank draft and wire transfer. Withdrawals are equally convenient through NETeller, FirePay and check. Absolute Poker is definitely a site that does a good job of responding to feedback. Always tweaking products and services, they have just added Razz to go with the choices of Hold'em, Stud, Omaha, and no limit, pot limit and limit varieties. As an up and coming site, the money tournament and competition levels are such that a reasonably good player can make some money.
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