While some players will settle for a live casino for the closest thing to a visit to Vegas, there is no substitute for the real thing. The key is to stay at one of those hotels that will make it tough to want to leave. These are the best hotels available in Las Vegas for 2024 where you can gamble, play slots, and enjoy your vacation.

Encore at Wynn Las Vegas

If you are all about the nightlife, the Encore at Wynn is the best place to go. It has luxurious accommodations like the cabana-lined pool. The rooms themselves are stunning, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows.

The nightclub scene, however, is the real draw. Famous DJs like Diplo, The Chainsmokers, and Calvin Harris have dropped in regularly. The spa is also one of the most relaxing on the strip, providing an all-inclusive Vegas experience.

Skylofts at MGM Grand

Most out-of-towners want to stay on the famous Strip. If you plan on visiting a massive luxury casino as well as one of the best hotels in town, the Skylofts at MGM Grand can’t be beaten. With more than 5,000 rooms to choose from, there are 51 penthouses at the very top.

Concierges can help with tough reservations, including Michelin-star restaurants. Steam showers, pool tables, private jacuzzi terraces, and even media rooms with the latest from Bang & Olufsen are all available in select suites. If you want to live a life of luxury on the Strip, this is the place to do it.

Aria Resort & Casino

The stunning all-glass façade is impressive enough. When you get inside, things are even more impressive. The Sky Villas have their own suites and entrances, a private pool, and even airport transportation provided.

The desert-style suite also comes with tremendous amenities like custom drink coasters, backgammon for kids, butlers pushing a cigar cart, and even fresh-baked bread and cookies. It is also within walking distance from premier shopping, restaurants, and T-Mobile Arena.

Nobu at Caesars Palace

There may be no more visually luxurious hotel on the list than Nobu. It has a warm welcome inspired by Japanese art and boutique quaintness. Guests will have access to butler service, a garden and whirlpool, limo transportation, and can even enjoy a VIP omakase dinner at the famous Nobu restaurant downstairs.

Though it may not have the modern flash that the Aria Resort & Casino has, this relaxing yet high-end hotel delivers an experience that no other Vegas hotel can match.

Conclusion

With so many beautiful places to stay throughout Las Vegas, coming to a decision can feel impossible. Thankfully, staying at one of these luxurious hotels will provide the kind of once-in-a-lifetime experience that only Las Vegas can.

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A frontrunner

The race for the three coveted downstate New York casino licenses is heating up, with many big names in the gaming industry now battling it out. The existing slots parlors at the Yonkers Raceway and Aqueduct Racetrack are currently the frontrunners for two of the permits.

The latter is home to the Resorts World New York City racino which currently offers more than 6,500 slot machines. It’s aiming to get the green light to expand its offering to also offer table games like baccarat, poker, roulette, and blackjack.

the development of a new 7,000-seat concert venue

As part of that expansion, the operator has also teased some other plans. This would include the development of a new 7,000-seat concert venue. It also plans to invest $50m to develop a Genting Innovation Campus that would feature an academy for up-and-coming sports stars.

Some interesting ideas

Resorts World is holding a press conference on Thursday to provide more details. Some major entertainers who hail from the local Queens area will attend the event. The total development plan would generate 10,000 jobs between the construction process and when the facility is fully open for business, according to the operator.

Resorts World is the biggest taxpayer in New York State

Malaysia-based casino company Genting owns Resorts World, opening the property in 2011 after the state’s lawmakers gave the green light for racinos. Resorts World is the biggest taxpayer in New York State, contributing more than $4bn to the state since it started operating about a dozen years ago.

The owner has pumped about $1.1bn into the property over the years, including the development of a 400-room hotel near JFK Airport. Part of its business plan when originally securing a racino license was attracting stranded travellers at the airport that is just minutes away.

Race heating up

The availability of the three downstate casino licenses has attracted huge interest. Billionaire and New York Mets owner Steve Cohen hopes to develop a casino adjacent to the team’s Citi Field, while Jay-Z is backing a Caesars Entertainment-operated casino on Times Square.

Genting currently has three casinos in the US. As well as the Queens property, it has a casino on the Las Vegas Strip and another in upstate New York.

Other sites under consideration include Coney Island, Hudson Yards, and Ferry Point. Each license will cost $500m and lawmakers hope that these casinos will be a strong revenue driver for the state going forward. The official application process has not yet begun and it could take until next year to issue the approvals.

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Galaxy Entertainment Group revealed net income of HK$10.3bln, which is approximately US$1.32bln, for the period of 3 months leading to December 31 of the previous year, which jumped by 254% compared to the previous year and by 7% consecutively as it proceeds to recover from the years when pandemic reined.

Revenue data for Q423:

The above figures involved gross gaming income of HK$9.24bln, which is roughly US$1.18bln, and which increased by nearly 6% compared with the results from the September’s quarter of last year. In addition, adjusted EBITDA of HK$2.8bln, which is roughly US$358m, countered a loss of HK$163m, which is roughly US$20.8m, from the fourth quarter of 2022 and was largely in accordance with the third quarter, even though the aforementioned firm pointed out that it performed poorly to the tune of HK$103m, which is roughly US$13.2m, for the said quarter.

In terms of segments, the mass table drop saw an increase of 2.6% to HK$30.7bln, which is approximately US$3.92bln, with earnings of HK$7.83bln, which is roughly US$1.0bln. Additionally, rolling chip volume also experienced an increase of 6.6% to HK$34.6bln compared to the same quarter to HK$34.6bln, which is approximately US$4.42bln, with earnings of HK$909m, which is approximately US$116m, according to Inside Asian Gaming.

As for electronic gaming, its volume rose by 14.6% to HK$16.4bln, which is approximately US$2.10bln, with earnings of HK$508m, which is roughly US$64.9m.

Profit data for FY23:

Regarding the entire fiscal year 2023, the said firm revealed an increase in net income of 211% to HK$35.7bln, which is roughly US$4.56bln, compared to the previous year, and gross gaming income rose by 322% to HK$31.7bln, which is approximately US$4.10bln. As for adjusted EBITDA, it amounted to HK$9.96bln, which is approximately US$1.27bln, which indicates that it has countered a loss of HK$553m, which is roughly US$70.7m, and which represents a 2022 Adjusted EBITDA.

In addition to all these data, Galaxy Ent. also shared some information regarding its performance in the first quarter of this ongoing year, pointing out that its 5,000 hotel suits are currently occupied at almost 100% occupancy levels, with mass gaming drop and incomes throughout the recent Lunar New Year period achieving 120% from levels of 2019.

Commenting on the revenue data, Lui Che Woo, the firm’s president, commented in the aforementioned financial report that the positive outcomes, were reached regardless of relentless competition “in both Macau and regionally and several geo-political and economic issues that impacted consumer sentiment,” according to Asia Gaming Brief.

Furthermore, during the duration of the previous year, the firm managed to finish few development projects, involving the official opening of the premium mass Horizon Club, then Galaxy Arena, Galaxy International Convention Center and Raffles at Galaxy Macau.

Before we step into the details of the brand and tell you more about its origin, ownership and current status, we allow you to choose the subject you want to read first.

In the navigation menu below, you will find the most essential points from the article that we intend to explain further. If you are not in a hurry, you can go through the whole article so you learn every tiny detail about the Estoril Casino in Portugal.

Estoril Casino Land-Based & Digital Venues

In our digital age, everything is made to be accessible through the internet, and Casino Estoril is no exception. Probably, you won’t be surprised to learn that the operator has a web version of the casino called Estoril Sol Casino.

The land-based Casino Estoril and the digital Estoril Sol Casino are managed by the same group of companies known as Estoril Sol Group. Later on, we will explain more about both casinos separately.

While the land-based Casino Estoril is known for its long history, fantastic location and great services, the online platform is also getting traction and might soon appear in the list of the best-rated online casinos in Portugal.

We have prepared a short review for those willing to explore the digital version. We will start with a complete examination of the land-based establishment and everything it offers, and at the end, you can read about the online venture.

Casino Estoril – History & General Overview

We will start with a bit of a background and history check of the establishment. Then, we will continue to review the Estoril Casino gaming floor, accommodation options and available entertainment.

The region of Estoril has been known for its thermal water source and healing properties since the 18th century. At the beginning of the 20th century, the place was already recognized as a tourist destination.

In 1910, the Estoril Thermal Spa was built to accommodate the needs of the many visitors to the village. During the First World War, the place was used to shelter many aristocrats and nobles from around the continent.

Fausto de Figueiredo was the person who had the idea to expand the spa and make it a sportive resort that includes hotels, golf courses and a large casino establishment.

The construction of the Estoril Casino was started in 1916, but it took 15 years to be completed with the famous Hotel Estoril Palácio. In 1931, the establishment was finally ready to open its doors to visitors.

During the Second World War, the place was a gathering point for wartime adventurers and spies from around Europe. At that point, the casino, the hotel and the thermal spa were under the control of Fausto de Figueiredo.

Fausto and his whole family cared for the three magnificent establishments until 1987, when the famous tycoon Stanley Ho obtained majority interest. The descendants of Fausto sold Estoril Casino to an investors group called Estoril-Sol Company.

The same group holds the place nowadays and manages the Estoril Sol Casino online. In the last 20+ years, they have made many improvements to the casino building and the Thermal Spa, adding services like a spa clinic, health club and more.

Casino Estoril Poker & Other Games

It is time to move to the Estoril Casino gaming floor and see what is offered there. The truth is that all your expectations will be satisfied because the casino is well-organized and offers everything that you could ask for.

There are over 700 slot machines, each offering 200+ classic video games, including progressive jackpots. The video slot games offer wide betting limits suitable for all types of players.

Regarding live card and table games, you should know that some of the best croupiers in Portugal work for Casino Estoril. You can choose between roulettes, blackjack, baccarat, Caribbean Stud, and French Bank (Banka Francesa).

The Casino Estoril poker games are Pot-Limit Omaha and Texas Hold ’em. The establishment has special poker nights and different tournaments for those who like to take the game more seriously.

If you are interested in the Casino Estoril poker room, we can tell you some more information on the cash games conditions and roughly how much money you would need to play the games.

If you are a poker player who likes to play on the go, you can look at the best poker sites in Portugal. There, you will find a lot more online tournaments and cash games, and you can train your poker skills before visiting the land-based establishment.

Estoril Casino Accommodation

Casino Estoril does not offer any accommodation in its building. Still, you can stay in the Palácio Estoril Hotel right next to the casino. You already know its history and that it offers top-quality services and many indoor amenities.

The accommodation is split into two places. You can either stay at the Palácio Estoril Hotel, Golf & Spa – Estoril Plage, S.A. or at the Palácio Estoril Hotel, Golf & Wellness.

They are situated on the left and right sides of the Estoril Casino, so there is no way for you to miss them. Both buildings provide five-star services and different types of rooms and suites.

You can choose between four types of rooms and suites. Their prices depend on the size, indoor extras, floor, season and availability. Roughly, we can say that you will pay between €300 and €750 per night.

The Estoril Hotel has three excellent restaurants and one bar where you can order dishes and drinks prepared by professional chefs and bartenders. This makes it a perfect location for events like weddings or other meetings.

If you are looking for a spa, this is a suitable place for you. You can take advantage of many wellness programs. In addition, you will find two large pools and a golf course.

Regarding food and beverages, you should know that Casino Estoril also offers several places to grab a bite or a drink. In the following section, we will turn more attention to them.

Estoril Casino Food & Beverages

Inside the Estoril Casino are three restaurants and five bars, some of which are fancier than the others. You will find more information about each place in the listing below.

If you are staying in the hotel, we recommend trying all the restaurants there too, because they are really worth it. Now, let’s look at the places where they serve drinks.

Casino Estoril in Portugal is a prominent place that offers excellent services and where you can spend hours enjoying the pleasant music and atmosphere even without spending money on the casino floor. The following section will show what else you can do there.

Entertainment at Casino Estoril

We have already told you that this is a magnificent place that offers many services. Apart from the restaurants and bars, there are several event halls and an art gallery that you can visit anytime.

The Black and Silver room offers a capacity of 1000 seats and is used for many national and international events. If you dislike closed premises and prefer the outdoors, there is the Panoramic Foyer.

The place has a capacity of 300 people, and it offers a mesmerizing view over the Estoril Casino garden. It is an excellent place for smaller gatherings or company events.

There is an Art Gallery with a vast program of different exhibitions of paintings and sculptures. It has a capacity of 250 people and offers cocktail services to its guests.

The Auditorium is a mid-sized hall with a capacity of 400 people, perfect for congresses, company meetings or special ceremonies. There is a scene where entertainment could take place and a large cinema screen if something must be displayed.

And last, we will mention Lounge D again, which has a capacity of 800 people and is perfect for musical events, company presentations or parties. Still, it is not as formal as the Auditorium.

Estoril Sol Casino – One of the Best Online Casinos in Portugal

The Estoril online casino was released in 2016 and has been among Portuguese players’ preferred online gambling platforms. One of the reasons why it is so popular is because it offers casino games and separate poker and sports betting subpages.

The platform is entirely safe to use because it possesses the required licenses from the local authority called Serviço de Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos, which deals with the regulation of online gambling sites.

At the Estoril Sol Casino, you will find over 1500 games provided by one of the prominent European software providers – GAMING1. Apart from the large variety of slots, you will also find a good selection of table games.

The only popular feature missing from the operator is a live online casino. Still, it compensates for that with a dedicated Casino Estoril poker section where you can play different games against other players live.

Most Portuguese players rate the Estoril Casino online quite well, not only because of its games and features but also because of excellent customer service, which is available through phone and email.

We have a dedicated article for those who want to learn about online casinos in PT in Portuguese. It would help you find a suitable online casino with a spotless background and excellent services.

Conclusion

You have a clear picture now of how great the brand of Casino Estoril is. The rich history and fantastic architecture of the casino and its hotels are worth seeing and visiting.

This is one of the oldest land-based casinos in Europe, a place that even inspired the legendary Ian Fleming to write the Casino Royale James Bond novel. The establishment also offers games and other gambling features that you can enjoy, even while placing some bets at the best betting sites in Portugal.

FAQ

Due to the length of this article and the many specifics about the Estoril Casino we have mentioned, it is normal for some of them to slip your memory. We have gathered the most frequently asked questions about the establishment and its services and games to make it easier for you.

The gambling industry is very massive, and with the potential harm gambling can cause, it needs to be regulated. The way gambling is regulated in individual regions is quite different. Some countries use a central governing agency to enforce gambling laws, while others give each state the freedom to regulate gambling as it deems fit.

In today’s article, we focus on gambling laws in Belgium and the Netherlands. Previously, gambling online in the Netherlands and Belgium was prohibited. But with the passage of the Remote Gambling Act (KOA), players can now place legal sports bets and play casino games over the internet. But with this freedom comes other restrictions, which we will shed more light on in this article.

Changes Belgium and Netherlands made to their gambling laws

The gambling laws in Belgium and the Netherlands were tightened recently. These changes aim to promote responsible gambling. Regulators want to create a safe space for players and, at the same time, reduce the number of youths involved in gambling. These changes imply that operators will likely look for new markets where the gambling laws are not so demanding. But what are these laws, and how do they impact the operators in the regions?

Universal loss limit

One of the changes made to the gambling laws in these regions is the push for a universal loss limit. This change was reportedly partitioned by Bikker in the Netherlands. This partition aims to protect players who may be struggling with problem gambling. Gambling can be addictive, and cause players to make irrational decisions.

As a result, the universal loss limit aims to reduce the deposit limits allowed to be accepted by all licensed operators. This change was introduced on the 13^th of February, 2024, and was announced by the Ministry of Justice & Security. With this new gambling law, players won’t be allowed to make an affordability check.

Financial risk checks

Before voting for the universal loss limit proposal, Franc Weerwind, the Minister for Legal Protections, rejected ChristenUnie’s (CU’s) mandate. Weerwind argued that there’s no need for a universal loss limit since a financial risk check was already incorporated in the approved and imminent amendments.

Weerwind further went on to say rather than a universal loss limit, compulsory financial risk checks for players’ accounts that are more than €350 or equivalent in spending will be more beneficial to the state, players, and operators. The Minister for Legal Protection whose job is to oversee KOA reforms, argued a €150 spending restriction will be imposed on gambling accounts of customers under 24.

Stricter financial penalties

Another change we can expect to see in gambling is stricter financial penalties. This amendment aims to create a safe space for players to gamble. A former member of the House of Representatives, Michiel Van Nispan of the Netherlands for the Socialist Party (SC) proposed a stricter financial penalty.

Van Nispan argued that with stricter financial penalties in place, gambling operators would be more cautious not to violate gambling laws. Amongst the penalties, Van Nispan suggested a fine of 10% of turnover for gambling companies that violate the KOA regulations. The former member of the House of Rep also suggested revoking the license of operators who fail to provide satisfactory player protection. Up to 102 MPs supported Van Nispan’s mandates, and it was passed.

Belgium increases gambling age

In Belgium, the official gambling, whether online or offline, was previously 18. However, the new gambling legislation has increased the legal gambling age to 21 and it has been approved by the Chamber of Deputies. The aim of increasing the legal age to gamble is to reduce the number of youths involved in any form of gambling.

Regulators believe that by reducing the number of youths involved in gambling, they will be more likely to get involved in more productive acts that will contribute to the development of society. Also, increasing the legal gambling age will help reduce the cases of gambling problems as it protects minors from the potential harms of gambling.

Online gambling advertising ban

Another of the three motions proposed by the CDA MP Derk Bosswijk is the call for a blanket ban on gambling advertising. However, this proposal was rejected as it fell short by 6 votes of the required 76-vote majority. Nevertheless, the Dutch minister thought of the proposal as useful and maintained that overreaching player limits must be included in the KOA Acts going forward.

Although Belgium’s National Lottery will be exempted from the ban. Also, online operators in the Western European country are prohibited from offering more than one type of gambling.

Conclusion

In summary, the aim of these new gambling laws in Belgium and the Netherlands is to tighten responsible gambling. Regulators want to provide a safe space for gamblers, and also reduce the number of youths involved in gambling.

The post Belgium and the Netherlands Amend Their Online Gambling Laws appeared first on Casino News Daily.

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Final talks ongoing

Rumors are flying around that the Eagles are in line to take over from U2 and Dead & Company as the next regular act in the Las Vegas Sphere. TMZ reported that negotiations are ongoing to try to get the rock band on board for a residency.

an Eagles residency in the Sphere could take place during the fall and winter time

The media outlet spoke to sources close to the matter and has no details about a potential timeframe for a decision. The Eagles started a farewell tour in September and the last one on the current schedule is in June in the Netherlands. TMZ speculated that an Eagles residency in the Sphere could take place during the fall and winter time.

Meanwhile, British singer Adele has paused her shows at Caesars Palace due to illness.

A major attraction

U2 – who opened up the Sphere to much fanfare on September 29 – will end their 40-show run on Saturday. The concerts are reportedly grossing about $1.8m each, which adds up to about $72m in total revenue across the entire stint.  

Other acts linked with the Sphere include Beyonce, Lady Gaga, and Bon Jovi. Dead & Company, which is made up of former members of the Grateful Dead, is the next band confirmed to perform a significant number of performances at the venue. Their 24-show run will begin in May and last until July 13.

American rock band The Eagles are part of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, have won six Grammys, and sold more than 200 million records globally.

Adele not feeling too well

In other Las Vegas showbiz news, Adele is pausing her Caesars Palace residency due to an ongoing health issue. She announced via Instagram on Tuesday night that all of her events through the end of next month will not go ahead. Her plan is to rest up and complete the shows at a later date.

she was “sick at the end of the last leg”

The 35-year-old explained that she was “sick at the end of the last leg” and during her entire break. This took a toll on her voice and her doctor advised her to rest. The first part of the residency at the Colosseum Theater took place from November 2022 to March 2023.

Tickets to her May and June shows are still available to buy online for more than $1,000. Adele is reportedly making $2m per show as part of this residency, which will add up to $68m if she manages to eventually complete all of the second leg’s dates and sell every ticket.

The post Eagles in Talks for Las Vegas Sphere Residency as Adele Postpones Caesars Shows appeared first on Vegas Slots Online News.

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Welcome to the who’s who of poker commentators.

These are the voices that take us through riveting high stakes, heart-breaking losses, and triumphant wins, all the while providing helpful advice and analysis. So without future ado, let’s salute 10 of the best in the business.

#1 – Norman Chad

Commentated On: World Series of Poker (WSOP)

“Someone needs to tell this guy he’s going home – he’s drawing dead!”

No-one perhaps embodies the World Series of Poker more than commentator Norman Chad, who has been commentating on many of ESPN’s poker broadcasts, including the WSOP, since 2003.

In fact, no-one could deliver the lines, “he’s been dealt Queen-Jack!” with such enthusiasm for thousands of hands ad infinitum and still make it sound interesting. But, with over-excited co-anchor Lon McEachern in tow, Chad is rightly considered one of poker’s best commentators.

While not all viewers may warm to Norman’s references to his many marriages, no one can fault his no-nonsense approach to the game and dislike of egos.

Norman Chad isn’t your guy if you want a detailed, step-by-step poker hand breakdown with tips on what a player should do in a particular situation. He’s also prone to a little quip (“Bet sizing is a key component of Texas Hold’em, but so is shirt-sizing”), and some may fault him for this light and funny approach to poker.

However, he’s one of few personalities with the power and charisma to make the game entertaining, even to someone who’s never played a single hand of Hold’em in their life. This is what makes him our favorite of the World Series of Poker commentators.

#2 – Mike Sexton

Commentated On: World Poker Tour (WPT)

“OMG! I cannot believe he just tried that!”

The dulcet tones of Mike Sexton flowed through 13 seasons of the World Poker Tour, ever since the first televised tour event aired in 2003.

With his trusty steed (former tennis pro Vince Van Patten) by his side and armed with a wardrobe of badly-fitting shirts, Sexton (and his Florida drawl) is rightly considered one of the best World Poker Tour commentators of all time.

Sexton had the rare advantage of actually being a decent player himself. He had a successful run of results in the WSOP, even before he started in front of the camera. Mike’s career tournament cashes total $6,708,146, including a WPT Montreal Main Event win in 2016.

Sadly, Sexton passed away in 2020, but his influence on the game lives on.

#3 – Jesse May

Commentated On: Late Night Poker, Poker Million, Irish Poker Open, Poker Nations Cup

The original “Voice of Poker”, Jesse May was many Brits’ primary school teacher in the late 90s and early 00s as he took a whole new generation through the bewildering world of Texas Hold’em in the iconic ‘Late Night Poker’ show.

Always assisted by the laconic tones of Nic Szeremeta, Jesse’s commentary was notable for its frequent bouts of chuckles and incredulous cries of “WHATTTT?!” as one young upstart dared to raise it up pre-flop with K-2 offsuit.

The comment itself is much funnier if you know May’s background story and how he got involved with poker commentary in the first place. Initially, “Late Night Poker” had no plans to have a commentator, but it turned out that players, although they were all “characters,” were terrified of being on camera, and there wasn’t much banter going on at all (save for late Devilfish, of course).

Jesse busted out of the tournament early on, making a play with 9-3 offsuit, so he really didn’t have much going on. He volunteered to commentate on the rest of the action, secretly hoping he would get a chance to explain his move at some point. From there, stars simply lined up for the man who would become the “Voice of Poker.”

In 2012, Jesse was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the European Poker Awards for services to the game. What a legend.

#4 – James Hartigan

Commentated On: EPT, PCA, PokerStars Shark Cage

The British journalist and broadcaster from south London started out with the BBC and commercial radio before being given his big break in gambling with the cable-based The Poker Channel (the starting out point for many British media starlets).

Currently, James can be seen fronting up the TV commentary for PokerStars’ European Poker Tour and PCA coverage on UK television.

Hartigan has formed a dynamic duo with Joe Stapleton. Joe happily takes on the role of a “clown” while James is the serious one that tries to tame and control young Stape’s enthusiasm. It can feel awkward at times, but that’s precisely what show producers are aiming for, and once you get used to it, it adds to the whole viewing experience.

The pair’s terrific chemistry won them the ‘Best Podcast Award for Poker in the Ears’ in 2022, while Hartigan won the ‘Best Broadcaster’ award at the 4th Global Poker Awards in 2023.

#5 – Gabe Kaplan

Commentated On: Poker After Dark, High Stakes Poker

Not many people combine sitcom acting, poker playing and commentating, but then, not all people are Gabe Kaplan. Now retired, he was perhaps most famous for his stint analyzing and commentating on High Stakes Poker. Kaplan’s dry and down-to-earth demeanor was a stark contrast to the mayhem going on at the table as Negreanu, Hansen et al proceeded to knock seven shades of bankroll out of each other.

It’s fair to say Gabe was instrumental to High Stakes Poker’s huge success. While fans enjoyed watching the game’s best duke it out on the green felt, it was Kaplan’s commentary that helped people understand what was going on, and his funny remarks helped pass the time when someone would go into a long tank facing a river bet.

When Gabe and HSP parted ways, the show just wasn’t the same anymore. Kaplan wasn’t an outsider, and he personally knew many of the best poker players appearing on the show, which probably helped a lot.

“It’s funny – once someone gets a $500 tip, the cocktail waitresses [sitting in the High Stakes Poker studio] start to multiply.”

Saying it how it is….

#6 – A.J. Benza

Commentated on: High Stakes Poker

While Gabe was the star in the commentary booth of High Stakes Poker, A.J. Benza was there to keep him company throughout the first five seasons of the show. Although Benza didn’t really know much about poker at all when the show first kicked off, he and Kaplan made an interesting duo.

A.J. was happy to take the role of an “armchair quarterback” (as he called himself in an interview describing his experience with HSP), who asked questions and let Gabe take things from there.

The chemistry between the two was good, and poker fans warmed up to A.J. co-commentating. In fact, when he was let go at the end of Season 5 and replaced by Kara Scott, fans from all over the world urged the GSN to reconsider their decision and bring Benza back.

A.J. wasn’t thrilled about the decision, either, but he always emphasized he was very fortunate to have an opportunity to work alongside Kaplan and help make HSP the success it had become.

Then in 2020, PokerGO relaunched High Stakes Poker with Kaplan and Benza in the commentary booth once more.  

#7 – Ali Nejad

Commentated on: Poker After Dark, National Heads Up Championship

To the poker community at large, Ali Nejad is best-known for his commentary on NBC’s Poker After Dark, although he did coverage for the National Heads Up Championship as well.

Unlike many more outspoken commentators out there, Ali had a different style, mostly calling out the action and throwing in an occasional pun. He largely let the chips and the players do the talking and kept to trying to explain things where necessary.

This approach divided the fan base. To some, it seemed like just wasn’t doing much at all, save for calling out the action. Others were happy with Nejad’s style as he wasn’t spoiling the actual play or trying too hard to add commentary where it wasn’t necessary.

#8 – Lex Veldhuis

Commentated on: Triton Poker Series

Lex isn’t in the same boat as many of the others covered in this article as he’s primarily a player – and a pretty good one, having won over $700,000 over the years. However, Veldhuis decided to take on a more active role as a poker commentator as well, covering certain events and high stakes cash game sessions taking place during various Triton Poker Series stops.

Lex may not be the showman that has an endless supply of jokes, and he doesn’t approach poker in the funny and relaxed way that some other commentators do, but that doesn’t take away anything from his commentary.

Instead of trying to make it fun for all, Veldhuis is more focused on the strategic aspect of the game, so he’ll offer his insights into hands, providing useful analysis and explanations for certain plays.

He may not make you laugh all the time, but he can definitely help you learn about the game along the way.

#9 – Tony Dunst

Commentated on: World Poker Tour

With over $4.2 million in lifetime tournament cashes, Tony Dunst is an excellent poker player in his own right. He merged his passion for the game with his desire to spread his knowledge with the rest of the world, working as a WPT commentator.

Dunst was primarily in charge of the “Raw Deal” segment of the show. During every WPT episode, producers would select one or two exciting hands to break it down play by play, and Dunst was the man doing the breakdown.

When Mike Sexton announced his retirement from WPT commentary, Dunst was promoted into the role.

Dunst is quite popular with the fans. His unique style of analysis with just the right dose of humor and expert opinion added some flavor to the WPT coverage.

#10 – David Tuchman

Commentated on: Live at the Bike, Full Tilt Million Dollar Cash Game, World Series of Poker, PokerStars Highlights Show, 888 Live

David Tuchman is one of the best-known voices in poker. Having started his commentating career in shows like Full Tilt Million Dollar Cash Game, he joined the World Series of Poker team in 2011, making his claim to poker fame.

Tuchman has also regularly appeared as the voice behind PokerStars Highlight shows, calling out the action for Sunday Million final tables as well as many other critical online events.

David Tuckman has also been involved with 888 Poker, commenting on their events and live streams. All in all, his name belongs to this list of the best poker commentators, and poker fans around the world will likely be listening to Tuckman’s voice for many years to come.

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