Harrah’s Interactive Entertainment (HIE) has entered into an agreement with social game developer Playdom to release a new World Series of Poker (WSOP) game for Facebook, MySpace, and other networking sites. The game, which launched on Facebook earlier this week, will re-brand Playdom’s Poker Palace and serve millions of poker fans worldwide.
“We are very excited to bring the thrill and excitement of the World Series of Poker to the social gaming space with Playdom,” said WSOP Vice President Craig Abrahams. “We will immediately start to work on enhancing the game, bringing unique WSOP promotions and sweepstakes into the offering and ensuring that the battle for WSOP virtual championship bracelets can become a Facebook-friendly endeavor.”
Poker enthusiasts will be able to choose from a variety of games and formats at WSOP on Facebook including single-table play money, virtual cash games, and single-table tournaments featuring full ring and short-handed play. Unlike sites like PokerStars, Full Tilt Poker, and UB.com, all games on the WSOP’s Facebook site will be “play money” only, but players can win WSOP branded virtual goods and receive chances to enter contests awarding prizes that include trips to Las Vegas and seats at WSOP events.
The initial response from players about the new WSOP game has been mixed, but as Abrahams expressed, HIE and Playdom will be working together to improve the product by adding regular updates and enhancements. The game will soon have a feature that allows players to find their friends and several table upgrades will be added in the near future. In addition, a variety of other social gaming platforms will be offered to play the game globally.
“There is only one brand in poker that stands out and that is the World Series of Poker,” said Sean Phinney, Vice President of Business Development for Playdom. “We think big brands will win on social networks and we are excited to start working together to create a unique and fun social gaming experience.”
Harrah’s Interactive Entertainment and the WSOP already feature one of the most popular mobile games in the marketplace, the World Series of Poker Hold’em Legend game created by Glu Mobile. The game is among the top selling paid apps available in the iTunes Store and is also available on Android and other carrier stores.
Users can build their bankrolls and win WSOP bracelets by playing events at several real Harrah’s properties, including Caesars Palace and the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, the home of the WSOP. There is also a heads-up feature available where users can play against their friends via Bluetooth.
Stay tuned to Poker News Daily for continued WSOP headlines.