No More Online Poker at Microgaming?
Out with the Old: Microgaming confirms its online poker network, MPN closing in 2020.
2003 was a fantastic year for the online gaming industry. That was the year eCOGRA launched its self-regulation services, providing certification of fairness for online casino games. It was the year the first live dealer tables launched from Playtech‘s Manila studio. 2003 was also the year online poker exploded onto the scene, following Chris Moneymaker’s WSOP Championship win.
Having won his seat in the World Series of Poker in an online satellite tournament, Moneymaker’s millionaire status turned internet poker into an overnight sensation. Everyone wanted to play, and Microgaming was more than happy to provide a means. As such, it was 16 years ago that the company launched the world-famous Microgaming Poker Network; since rebranded the MPN.
But alas, the poker party is coming to an end. As of this morning, confirmation is official…
The MPN Closing in 2020
On the morning of September 20, 2019, Microgaming announced its long-time online poker network will cease operations as of next year. The Isle of Man firm says the decision comes following an “extensive internal review” of all the iGaming verticals in its wide-reaching portfolio.
In reasoning the impending closure of MPN, Microgaming says its poker platform no longer aligns with the company’s operational strategy going forward.
“The network model no longer fits with our strategic vision for poker, and this is the right time to announce the closure as we focus on redistributing key resources and personnel across the business,” said Microgaming CEO John Coleman in a statement.
He went on to assure poker players that the upcoming closure may be the end of MPN, but it won’t be the final word on poker for Microgaming.
“While the network will be closing, this is not the end for poker at Microgaming, which is driven to create the most enjoyable entertainment experiences, leading the way with world-class gaming content. Ultimately, this move will help the business to achieve that vision as we follow a new strategic direction for the vertical, details of which will be revealed in due course.”
More to Come on the Microgaming Blog…
The company did not disclose a specific date, or any further details as to the decision; only that it would close MPN sometime next year. However, those with an interest are encouraged to keep an eye on the Microgaming Blog. More details are promised to be relayed over the coming weeks.
Soon after the press release was issued, Alex Scott, Managing Director at Microgaming, published a farewell message. It came with a cursory FAQ page regarding the pending closure. It confirms the following details:
When is MPN Closing?
No exact date has been set, but Scott expects the network to close sometime in “Q2 or Q3 2020”.
Time to Withdrawal?
Scott assures everyone that Microgaming online poker rooms must keep all player funds separate. As such, players do not need to rush to cash out their balance, but are welcome to do so if they wish.
What about the MPN Poker Tour?
The MPN Poker Tour will continue to run events up until its closure. The MPN Malta is still scheduled for October, and all players who’ve won a seat should attend. Details for at least one more event on the tour will be released next month.
And the UCOP?
The Universal Championship of Online Poker will also continue as scheduled. Despite expected overlays, the guarantees will remain as advertised, promising exceptional value for those who participate.
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