02 Jannuary 2014
One of the biggest French online poker rooms, Winamax Poker, has introduced a new feature: the ability to change your nickname once every six months.
According to statements made by the operator itself, this measure wasn't designed to reduce bumhunting, but rather as a proof that the room hears its players, making true one of the most popular requests.
To start with, the measure was supposed to allow for a nickname change once every 3 months, but after much discussion in various poker forums, it was concluded that the best option would be to set a 6 months minimum time limit. Players aren't required to make the change if they don't want to.
How much will this measure affect the game? More than what most think. This change will translate into a setback for players that focus in the study of their opponents and respective data/notes - since nicknames may disappear, all this study and analysis may become worthless.
On the other hand, many believe that this change will create more action between regular players and protect recreational players longer.
After bumhunting and the viability of the poker ecosystem was widely discussed in the poker world, this attempt by Winamax shows some intention to please its players.
The French poker room protected itself, however, by publishing the measure announcing that if this measure brings more problems than solutions it will be removed from the software.
