Unibet to leave Microgaming poker network

Unibet said that it would be leaving the Microgaming Poker Network (MPN) in order to become a standalone poker product. Unibet has commissioned the Estonian based solutions supplier, Relax Gaming to develop exclusive poker software for its brands so that it could go it alone with its unique online poker platform.

Daniel Eskola, the head of gaming at Unibet, explained the motives behind this dramatic move.

“The environment in the online poker industry has changed over the years and we have come to the insight that being part of a poker network is not sustainable for Unibet in the long term,” he explained. “This project has given us the possibility to start from a blank piece of paper and define everything we believe is important for a fun poker experience. In a way, our goal is to bring the fun back to poker by creating software with a clear focus on the casual player.”

As part of the deal, Unibet has invested EUR 1.2 million in Relax Gaming in return for a stake in the business.  How much Unibet own of Relax Gaming is not clear from the announcement made.