Today, we explore the Resorts World Sentosa poker room with our in-depth review. Discover the atmosphere, amenities, and gameplay.
Resorts World Sentosa Poker Room: A Candid Review
Though smaller in scale than global poker hubs, RWS offers a rare chance to play real poker in Singapore.
As an avid poker enthusiast visiting Singapore, I’m always eager to check out one of the only two legal poker rooms in the country at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS).
With poker still a niche pastime in Singapore, the RWS poker room offers a rare opportunity to get a taste of live poker action in the city-state.
In this in-depth review, I’ll share my firsthand experience playing at the RWS poker room, from entering the casino to the unique house rules to the food options nearby.
Read on for an insider’s perspective on the highs and lows of playing poker at this Singapore gaming destination.
Key Info
| Location: | Resorts World Sentosa |
| Address: | 8 Sentosa Gateway, 098269 |
| Hours: | Open 24 hours |
| Phone: | 6577 8000 |
Brief History of the Resorts World Sentosa Poker Room
Singapore legalized casino gambling in 2006 in hopes of boosting tourism. Resorts World Sentosa opened its doors in 2010 as one of two integrated casino resorts with approval to operate casinos. The RWS poker room began operations in early 2013 with just 14 tables.
Over the past decade, the poker room has grown modestly to 18 tables spreading cash games daily.
Games like No Limit Hold’em and Pot Limit Omaha are spread at limits to suit casual players and pros alike, from S$2/$2 blinds up to S$25/$50. Read on for my review of the RWS poker experience as of early 2023.
Entering the RWS Poker Room and Casino
Arriving at the grand entrance of RWS, I queued up to have my ID checked before entering the casino.
Signage clearly prohibited locals, who must pay S$150 per day to enter. The staff moved quickly to verify documents and issue tickets.
Next was exchanging money for chips. The cashier counters were orderly and efficient. I received a full value exchange with no commission taken, unlike other Asia casinos.
The poker section sat right off the main casino floor. A membership clerk registered me for a free poker player card. I was required to memorize and pass a basic poker rules test before playing.
Adapting to Unique Gameplay Rules
The RWS poker room follows a specialized set of Texas Hold’em rules tailored to Singapore’s gaming regulations. Key differences include:
- Verbal declarations required for actions like raising, calling, folding, etc.
- All chips must stay on the table throughout hands.
- Only one raise allowed per betting round, unlike the typical three raises. This slows gameplay considerably.
- Stringent etiquette rules like no checking cell phones at the table.
- Dealers collect losing hands immediately to prevent angling.
The limit of one raise did take getting used to after playing elsewhere with unlimited raises. But the staff emphasized adapting to rules as a condition of playing here.
Dealer Practices Affecting Game Pace
All dealers were trained in pitch black uniform attire at RWS. They followed stringent shuffling procedures, counting out cards before insertion. This added significant dead time between hands, dragging out gameplay.
Dealers were also required to verbally verify and push all pots, even tiny ones. While ensuring integrity, this slowed play as dealers repeatedly counted out chips. The lack of tipping dealers likely contributed to no rush in service.
Lack of Table Choice Impacts Strategy
With only 18 tables, the RWS poker room offers little in table choice or ability to table select.
I was assigned a table and seat upon entry with no say. This also meant getting stuck with particularly tough or nitty players for hours.
Adapting strategy was critical. I focused on adjusting to the table dynamic rather than trying to find ideal seats. Having patience and not overplaying marginal hands was key to winning here.
Rake Structure and Player Experience
Rake was 10% capped at S$15 per hand, higher than most major poker rooms. Rake was taken on every single hand that went to the flop regardless of pot size.
On the bright side, the room offered complimentary bottled water, hot tea, peanuts, and Terra chips. Food could be delivered from nearby casino restaurants. The floor was also nonsmoking with good ventilation.
Extensive Security and Surveillance
Security and surveillance were more extensive than any poker room I’ve played in with cameras covering every table and aisle. Uniformed security guards also patrolled the floor.
While intrusive, I understood the need to ensure strict compliance with Singapore gaming regulations in the confined setting. It did take adjusting to being monitored during play.
Recommended Dining Spots at RWS
One perk of playing at RWS was the plethora of Asian cuisine right outside the poker room. My favorites included Malaysian hawker fare at Malaysia Food Street and Cantonese delicacies at Forest森.
The restaurants lined the casino perimeter, making meal breaks quick and convenient.
Plea for Changes to Improve Player Experience
While I appreciated RWS for spreading legal poker in Singapore, some aspects hampered the experience. My plea would be to reduce rake, allow multiple raises, speed up dealers, reconsider security overkill, and offer comps or rewards.
Even small adjustments would make the RWS poker room much more enticing to new local players and tourists alike.
In summary, playing at the RWS poker room offered insight into both progress and restrictions since legalization in Singapore.
I encourage poker enthusiasts visiting Singapore to check it out and provide constructive feedback.
With a few positive changes, Resorts World Sentosa could become a modern, world-class poker destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dress code for the RWS poker room?
Smart casual dress is required – no shorts, singlets, or sandals. Men must wear sleeved shirts and closed shoes.
What identification do I need to enter the poker room?
A valid passport or international photo ID is required for foreigners. Singapore citizens/PRs must present NRIC.
How much is the rake and jackpot drop?
Rake is 10% capped at S$15 per hand. There is a mandatory S$1 jackpot drop.
Are poker players rated and given complimentaries?
No, unlike most major poker rooms there is currently no player rewards program.
Can I take breaks or leave during a poker session?
You must inform staff before leaving the table for any reason. Re-entry is allowed upon prompt return.
Is the poker room open 24 hours or does it close?
The RWS poker room operates 24 hours daily with at least a few tables always running.
What other poker variants besides No Limit Hold’em are spread?
Pot Limit Omaha is sometimes available with blinds from S$5/$5 up to S$10/$20.
Is smoking allowed in the poker room?
No, smoking is strictly prohibited. The poker area is fully nonsmoking.
Can local residents or tourists under 21 enter to watch poker?
No, you must be 21+ to enter the poker room even as a spectator.
Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!
Gambling Problem Help
While gambling is meant to be enjoyable, it can become a serious issue for some individuals. If you’re experiencing difficulties related to gambling, seek help from:
- National Council on Problem Gambling or call 1800-6-668-668
- All Addiction 6-RECOVER: 6-7326837 or visit the National Addictions Management Service
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