Tracking software overhaul at PokerStars and PartyPoker
HUDS, tracking software and seating scripts are all but removed at PartyPoker, while at PokerStars major changes have also come in.
Last week PartyPoker announced that they were "leveling the playing field" by making most tracking software, HUDs and seating scripts impossible to use, in the coming weeks.
The major change is that hand histories will no longer be saved to hard drives, which is where tracking software like PokerTracker and Hold'em Manager access them. This would render most parts of the tracking software obsolete, including the HUD.
Waiting lists on cash game tables will be replaced with a global waiting list, and all tables will appear anonymous until your first hand is dealt. These measures are being made to prevent table selection software from automatically putting players in weaker games.
Big changes at PokerStars
Elsewhere at PokerStars tracking software and HUDs are still allowed, but a number of changes have been made to limit the depth of information they can provide during play.
In-game reference material, such as push/fold charts, now have to be 'basic in nature'. The example given is that the software cannot provide more information than would fill a sheet of A4 paper or have 'more than two of three dimensions' to reference.
HUDS now can only be numerical, so they cannot display charts or graphics. If you use colour coding, a maximum of three colours can be used at one time on your HUD.
HUDS can no longer be updated during the hand with information that is relevant to a change in table dynamics, such as the number of players still in the pot. Hotkeys are still allowed, however they also cannot be updated during a hand (For example, if you have a script to raise larger when more players are in the pot).
Finally, tools which manipulate games where you cannot choose where you sit are prohibited. This is likely a step taken to stop people using SpinWiz, which helped prevent Spin & Go regulars from joining games with other tough regulars.
You can view the full changes at PokerStars here.
All the software promoted by PokerStrategy.com is still allowed by PokerStars after these changes.
What do you think of the changes at both sites? Let us know in the comments.
