In a bid to protect casual players, the Microgaming Poker Network has announced that it is set to make changes to the content and storing of hand histories from April 1st. In his blog, the head of product at Microgaming, Alex Scott noted that while hand tracking software is an excellent tool for players, it also allows more seasoned players to observe and study weaker players’ hands.
“We have a difficult relationship with tracking software,” wrote Scott on behalf of Microgaming. “Personally, I think it’s really important for players to be able to track and analyze their own gameplay, and tracking software is an excellent way to improve if used properly. It’s also a great way to be a responsible gambler, because you can’t hide from your results.”
“But I also think tracking software has changed the game in a way that makes it less fun. It allows you to gather huge amounts of data on your opponents, without requiring any significant attention or observation on your part. It allows you to exploit the weakest opponents exclusively, if you wish.”
There will be two changes implemented by Microgaming Poker Network. The first is that a full, detailed hand history will be saved in cash games only if it he player contributed money to the pot. The second change is that there won’t be hand histories for anonymous tables.
“The net effect of this is that you can still use tracking software to track your own gameplay, and you can still use a HUD at the tables,” writes Scott.
