PokerStars launch Power Up for real money

After a positive response to the Play Money beta test, the innovative new format Power Up has launched for real money play today at PokerStars.

At the time of writing .EU players have access to $1 and $3 games, with $7 and $15 stakes expected very soon, and also soon to be available at .UK and .com.

PokerStars Power Up is a three handed No Limit Hold’em SNG, but in addition to the usual action each round the players draw one of nine 'Power Up cards' to be used whenever they want in the match (when it is their turn and before going all in). These Power Ups allow a number of advantages including changing hole cards, changing board cards, peeking at unseen cards and stopping others using their own Power Ups. You have an energy balance and each card uses up a certain amount of energy, so you have to pick your spots with the cards.

As a format it closely resembles card games like Hearthstone and Magic: The Gathering, but has largely stuck to its poker roots. Check out this writer's thoughts on the format so far. 

Keep your eyes peeled later this week for some special Power Up promotions to celebrate the launch. 

Do you like Power Up? Let us know in the comments: