Rakeback in online poker refers to a system where players receive a percentage of the rake (the fee charged by the poker room) refunded back to them. While rakeback can be enticing for players, it’s important to understand the pros and cons before deciding if it’s the right option for you. Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of rakeback in online poker.
The Pros and Cons of Rakeback in Online Poker
Pros of Rakeback:
- Increased Profitability: Rakeback can significantly boost a player’s overall profitability. By receiving a percentage of the rake back, players can offset some of the costs associated with playing poker, such as tournament fees and cash game rake. This can be especially advantageous for high-volume players who contribute a significant amount of rake.
- Long-Term Value: Rakeback provides a consistent and long-term value for players. Unlike bonuses or promotions that may come and go, rakeback offers an ongoing return on investment as long as the player continues to generate rake.
- Bankroll Building: For players looking to build their bankroll, rakeback can be a valuable tool. The additional funds received through rakeback can be reinvested into playing more poker, allowing for a faster bankroll growth and the ability to move up in stakes.
Cons of Rakeback:
- Lower Bonuses and Promotions: Some online poker rooms may offer lower initial bonuses or promotions to compensate for the rakeback they provide. Players who are attracted to lucrative sign-up bonuses or special promotions may find that rooms with rakeback programs offer less in these areas.
- Limited Room Selection: Not all online poker rooms offer rakeback, and some may only provide it to players through specific affiliates. This limits the player’s options when it comes to selecting the ideal poker room based on game selection, software, or other factors.
- Overemphasis on Rake: Rakeback can create a focus on generating as much rake as possible, potentially leading players to make decisions that prioritize volume over quality play. This could negatively impact the player’s overall poker skills and decision-making.
- Difficulty in Tracking Rake: Calculating and tracking rakeback can be complex, especially if a player plays on multiple sites or participates in different game formats. Managing multiple rakeback accounts and properly tracking the amount received can be time-consuming and challenging.
It’s important to weigh these pros and cons based on your individual playing style, volume, and preferences. For high-volume players who generate significant rake, rakeback can be a valuable source of additional income. However, for recreational players or those who value other aspects of the poker room experience, such as bonuses, promotions, game availability, or software quality, the advantages may not outweigh the disadvantages. Ultimately, it’s a personal decision that depends on your specific goals and priorities as an online poker player.