It is official, PKR Poker is no longer an independent online poker room following the completion of its move to MPN, formerly known as the Microgaming Network.

One of the features that drew players to PKR was its unique poker software, with 3D characters that could perform a range of emotions, move chips on the table, and could be fully customized to look like the person whose account it was representing.

The good news for fans of the avatars and PKR's old software is that they can still use it, or at least a version of it, thanks to MPN's Babelfish technology, which allows online poker operators to highly customize their software for their customers. Yet, players get the benefit of still being able to enjoy the liquidity of the MPN player base.

"The opportunity to connect our unique 3D poker software to a popular network and enjoy the best of both worlds means we can dream bigger once again," said Chris Welch, PKR Chief Operating Officer. "With our software and community allied to Microgaming's advanced products, poker liquidity and proven track record, this is the perfect match."

Players can also choose to play in a 2D version of the software, and even change it midgame via a button in the top-right corner of the screen, which retains PKR's colorful surroundings.

Getting Started with the New PKR

Those who do not already have a PKR account simply need to download PKR via PokerNews, create an account, and begin playing their favorite games. Current PKR players can be up and running within a minute or so and even use their old PKR alias if it is still available.

Attempting to open the old PKR software prompts you to download the new MPN-powered client. The file's size is small enough that it should download within a few seconds. Once downloaded, log into the new PKR client using your old PKR details. You will then be prompted to accept new terms and conditions and will be informed that your old PKR balance (which used to be held in USD) has been converted to the currency of your country of residence and the exchange rate given.

Although this writer personally had no funds on PKR, I was informed that any funds would be converted from USD to GBP at a rate of $1 per £0.70, the exchange rate on March 7, 2016.

Once these steps are completed, you are taken to the new-look lobby. There are a choice of two lobbies, the simple view and classic view, the latter resembling the old PKR poker lobby. From here, select the format, variant, and stakes you want to play, and everything appears like the old PKR software except there are more than six times the number of players active during peak times.

Welcome Offer and Promotions

Anyone making their first deposit at the new PKR Poker, even if they are an existing player, are entitled to a special welcome offer. There are no bonus codes required, just make a deposit of at least €10 or equivalent and you receive:

• 200-percent bonus, up to €1,000
• Four entries to €1,000 First Depositor Freeroll tournaments
• 100 VIP points
• Five free casino spins

The bonus clears at a rate of $1, or currency equivalent, for every 50 VIP points earned and must be cleared within 60 days of the first deposit. What is great about the bonus is it releases into your account in increments starting at 0.5 percent of the bonus amount and increasing to five percent.

The €1,000 First Depositor Freeroll tournaments run at 6 p.m. GMT every Wednesday and you have four weeks from your first deposit in which to use your entries while the 100 VIP points, which are credited immediately, can be used to purchase items for your avatar or enter some real-money games.

Players wishing to try their luck with the five free spins can do so only on the "Hot as Hades" slot, accessed via the PKR client. They must be used within seven days of your first deposit and have a 40 times wagering requirement during the same seven-day period.

Other promotions include €1,000 Daily Lotteries, which are all-in tournaments that you gain entry to by playing at least one raked hand a day, €30,000 Mad March Freeroll series, and the Win a Dream Holiday promotion, which caters for casino-game players and sees $50,000 of prizes up for grabs including five luxury holidays to a destination of your choice.

Up To 30% Cash Back with the PKR Poker VIP Club

Changes have also been made to PKR's loyalty scheme. Each time real-money poker is played, players receive 10 VIP points per $1 paid in cash-game rake or tournament fees. Hit predetermined points totals each month and you receive between five- and 30-percent cash back, plus you can exchange your VIP points for cash at a rate of 33 VIP points per $1 or currency equivalent.

Note that VIP points expire 60 days after they are earned.

The VIP levels are:

VIP Level	Monthly VIP Points Required	Cashback %	Bonus Casino Free Spins
Blue	0	5
Silver	150	10	5
Gold	500	15	10
Platinum	1,500	20	25
Sapphire	5,000	25	50
Sapphire Elite	30,000	30	100

Download the all-new PKR today and see what you think of the new tournaments and increased liquidity.

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