While many casinos are expanding their poker action, MotorCity’s going the opposite way
Michigan’s poker scene is about to lose a major player. MotorCity Casino in Detroit has announced the closure of its poker room, scheduled for August 5, 2024, at 6:00 AM. While the official reason for the closure remains undisclosed, the move comes on the heels of the casino ending its VIP program in July.
This news hits Detroit’s poker community hard. MotorCity boasted the city’s largest poker room, offering 37 tables and cash games ranging from $20-$40. Local players will now have to look elsewhere for their fix.
Fortunately, Detroit isn’t entirely out of options. MGM Grand offers a 14-table poker room, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown provides another 10 tables. For those seeking a broader selection, Caesars Windsor Casino across the border in Ontario beckons with 85 tables and a bustling tournament scene.
For players seeking a more flexible option, Michigan’s legal online poker market offers a solution. Platforms like BetMGM, WSOP.com, and PokerStars allow players to compete from the comfort of their homes. Notably, WSOP launched a shared liquidity platform in May, allowing players in Michigan to compete against those in Nevada and New Jersey. PokerStars also offers a shared player pool with New Jersey, further expanding the online poker landscape for Michigan residents.
The closure of MotorCity’s poker room signifies a shift in Detroit’s gaming scene. Whether this trend continues or sparks renewed interest in the live poker experience remains to be seen. In the meantime, Detroit poker players have several alternatives to consider, both offline and online.
