The Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA) has reached a transformative milestone in September 2025, with six states now fully integrated into shared liquidity networks that are revolutionizing the US regulated poker landscape. Pennsylvania's successful integration in April 2025 has created unprecedented opportunities for PLO players and affiliate marketers across the expanded network.
MSIGA Network Impact Statistics
Pennsylvania Integration: The Game Changer
Pennsylvania's entry into MSIGA in April 2025 marked the most significant expansion of shared liquidity since the compact's inception. With over 13 million residents and approximately 150,000 active online poker players, Pennsylvania's addition has fundamentally altered the dynamics of regulated US poker.
The integration process, completed under Governor Josh Shapiro's administration, emphasized the benefits of larger prize pools and more competitive games. For PLO players specifically, this expansion has meant:
- Consistent PLO Cash Games: Previously struggling PLO tables now run regularly across all stakes
- Enhanced Tournament Fields: PLO tournaments regularly exceed guarantees with Pennsylvania participation
- Reduced Wait Times: Faster game starts across all PLO variants
- Higher Stakes Availability: Mid and high-stakes PLO games now sustainable
Current MSIGA Network Configuration
As of September 2025, the MSIGA network operates with varying levels of integration across different operators, creating a complex but opportunity-rich landscape for affiliate marketers:
WSOP Online: Four-State Network
WSOP operates the most comprehensive network, connecting Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. This configuration has resulted in the strongest PLO traffic, with regular $5/$10 and $10/$20 games running consistently. The network's tournament schedule includes weekly PLO events with guarantees ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.
BetMGM: Tri-State Integration
BetMGM has successfully integrated Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania into a shared liquidity pool. While smaller than WSOP's network, BetMGM's focus on recreational players has created an ideal environment for PLO newcomers and mid-stakes grinders.
BetRivers: Alternative Four-State Model
BetRivers has taken a unique approach, connecting Michigan, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and West Virginia. This configuration excludes the larger Nevada and New Jersey markets but creates opportunities in underserved regions, particularly benefiting West Virginia and Delaware players who previously faced limited game selection.
PokerStars: Delayed Integration
PokerStars remains the notable exception, having postponed Pennsylvania integration citing "global operational priorities." This delay has created a significant opportunity for competitors, as PokerStars PA operates as an isolated market while other operators benefit from shared liquidity.
PLO Traffic Revolution: Before and After MSIGA
The impact of MSIGA expansion on PLO traffic has been dramatic, particularly in markets that previously struggled to maintain consistent games:
Cash Game Transformation
Pre-MSIGA Challenges:
- PLO games rarely ran above $1/$2 stakes
- Wait lists often exceeded 30 minutes
- Games frequently broke due to insufficient players
- Limited variety in PLO formats (mostly standard PLO)
Post-MSIGA Benefits:
- Regular $5/$10 and $10/$20 PLO games
- Average wait times reduced to under 5 minutes
- Games maintain 6+ players consistently
- Multiple PLO variants available (PLO, PLO8, 5-Card PLO)
Tournament Impact
PLO tournaments have seen the most dramatic improvement, with shared liquidity enabling:
- Guaranteed Overlay Protection: Tournaments consistently meet or exceed guarantees
- Larger Starting Fields: Average PLO tournament fields increased by 200-300%
- Extended Late Registration: More players entering throughout registration periods
- Series Viability: Multi-day PLO series now economically viable
Affiliate Marketing Opportunities in the MSIGA Era
The expanded MSIGA network has created unprecedented opportunities for affiliate marketers targeting PLO players and the broader 25-45 demographic:
Geographic Targeting Advantages
Pennsylvania Market: The largest addition to MSIGA offers affiliate marketers access to a mature gambling market with high player lifetime values. Pennsylvania players demonstrate strong tournament participation and cash game loyalty.
Michigan Expansion: Michigan's integration has matured significantly, with players now accustomed to shared liquidity benefits. The state's large population and established online gambling habits make it ideal for PLO-focused affiliate campaigns.
West Virginia Growth: Despite its smaller population, West Virginia has shown exceptional engagement rates, with new players demonstrating high retention and frequent play patterns.
Operator-Specific Strategies
The varying integration approaches create distinct affiliate opportunities:
- WSOP Focus: Target tournament-focused PLO players with bracelet event qualifiers
- BetMGM Approach: Emphasize recreational-friendly PLO games and beginner promotions
- BetRivers Angle: Highlight unique four-state network and low-rake advantages
- PokerStars Opportunity: Position as premium standalone option while integration pending
Technical Infrastructure and Player Experience
The success of MSIGA expansion has required significant technical infrastructure improvements that benefit both players and affiliate marketers:
Enhanced Game Stability
Shared liquidity has improved game stability across all participating operators. PLO games, which previously suffered from frequent breaks due to insufficient players, now maintain consistent action throughout peak and off-peak hours.
Improved Tournament Software
Operators have upgraded tournament software to handle larger fields and more complex payout structures. This has enabled innovative PLO tournament formats, including progressive knockouts and mixed-game events.
Cross-State Player Protections
MSIGA requires enhanced player protection measures, including improved geolocation verification and responsible gambling tools. These protections increase player confidence and reduce regulatory concerns for affiliate marketers.
Future Expansion Prospects
The success of the six-state MSIGA network has generated interest from additional jurisdictions:
Potential New Members
- Connecticut: Established tribal gaming partnerships could facilitate entry
- Rhode Island: Small market but strategic geographic position
- New York: Ongoing legislative discussions about online poker legalization
Operator Expansion Plans
Several operators have announced plans to expand their MSIGA participation:
- PokerStars eventual Pennsylvania integration (timeline uncertain)
- 888poker exploring entry into multiple MSIGA states
- Potential new operators seeking multi-state licenses
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the success of MSIGA expansion, several challenges remain:
Regulatory Complexity
Each state maintains its own regulatory requirements, creating compliance challenges for operators and potential confusion for affiliate marketers promoting across multiple jurisdictions.
Tax Implications
Players competing across state lines face complex tax reporting requirements, particularly for tournament winnings. Affiliate marketers must be aware of these implications when promoting cross-state play.
Operator Integration Delays
The PokerStars delay demonstrates that technical and business considerations can impact integration timelines, affecting affiliate strategies and player expectations.
Conclusion: MSIGA's Transformative Impact
The expansion of MSIGA to six states has fundamentally transformed the US regulated poker landscape, with PLO players and affiliate marketers being primary beneficiaries. The increased liquidity, enhanced tournament offerings, and improved game availability have created a more vibrant and sustainable poker ecosystem.
For affiliate marketers, the MSIGA expansion represents a paradigm shift from promoting isolated state markets to leveraging the benefits of interstate competition and shared liquidity. The success of this model suggests continued growth and expansion, making it an ideal time to establish affiliate relationships and build targeted campaigns around the enhanced player experience.
Related Reading
Explore Pennsylvania's 20% MSIGA revenue boost and learn position play strategies to dominate multi-state PLO games.
Sources: Pokerfuse MSIGA Analysis | PokerNews Pennsylvania Integration