Deals continued to be brokered in the online poker industry as US brands seek to link up with non-US operators, in the wake of market shutdown Stateside. It means less American fish at the tables, but it does consolidate playing numbers.

The latest link-up is the move of World Poker Tour to software giant Cryptologic. The WPT is one of the very biggest brands in the global game while Crypto, which recently moved operations to Ireland, is capitalising on global market adjustment.

The three-year contract means that the WPT's gaming site for the international market will move to the world’s largest shared gaming network that does not accept bets from US citizens.

The agreement, entered into with CryptoLogic’s wholly-owned subsidiary, WagerLogic Limited, will introduce CryptoLogic’s proven poker software while delivering a unique WPT look and feel that will only be offered to WorldPokerTour.com customers. The new WPT poker room is expected to launch in June 2007.

“Liquidity is a big deal in this business,” said Steven Lipscomb, President, Founder and CEO of WPTE. “CryptoLogic has proven itself to be an industry leader that delivers a superior product. This deal ensures that starting with day one of our online gaming re-launch there will be a plethora of cash games and tournament offerings available for our customers on a stable and proven platform.

"We will launch with a look and feel unique to World Poker Tour and will work with WagerLogic to incorporate additional WPT features that will begin to redefine and distinguish our product and customer experience.”

“It is the perfect strategic step for both companies, as World Poker Tour and CryptoLogic are pioneers in the global gaming phenomenon,” said Javaid Aziz, CryptoLogic’s new President and CEO. “WagerLogic’s flexibility in working with licensee-specific software needs, as well as its adherence to strict regulatory standards and our shared commitment to growth in markets where on-line poker is embraced, are just some of the key factors that brought WPT and CryptoLogic together.”

In line with US legislation, none of WagerLogic’s licensees takes wagers from US-based players.

“World Poker Tour has quickly become one of the top entertainment brands worldwide,” said AJ Slivinski, WagerLogic’s Managing Director. “We look forward to contributing to their success as they continue to grow and expand their business.”