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Poker Royale - GSN
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Overview
Poker Royale is the Game Show Network's
(GSN) take on televised poker. Instead of filming actual tournaments
on the circuit the network hosts these invitational events, which
usually includes 6 pros. The tournaments are usually themed, such as
the "Battle of the Ages" in our logo above. This particular
incarnation pitted 3 poker veterans against 3 young stars. Other
episodes have included "Battle of the Sexes", "The James Woods Gang
Vs. The Unabombers", and "Comedians Vs. Poker Pros".
Each tournament has an individual prize
pool, or prizes for winners of a series of events. Episodes are
typically 60 or 120 minutes and air on "Casino Night", which is on
Friday nights. Of course, the format is No Limit Holdem. You can
catch reruns during late-night hours throughout the week. Regulars
include Phil Laak and David Williams. Poker Royale is hosted by John
Ahlers and poker professional Robert Williamson III does the
commentary.
Comments
There are definitely some positives
about this show like the fact that they invite some of my favorite
pros that you don't see too often on TV (Phil Laak and Dan
Harrington). Plus, it's always nice to have some variety in your
poker television diet. I also like the commentary by Robert
Williamson, but he can be a bit brutal on the players at times. I
can't imagine what it would be like to have all of my bad moves at
the table recorded and analyzed... those poor guys.
Anyway, some misses include an
anti-climactic production, which doesn't add up compared to other
shows like the WSOP or Poker Superstars. The hosts could get a
little more excited about bad beats and big wins. Instead, they seem
to be more like play-by-play announcers without much emotion. Also,
the themed match-ups are sort of strange. The Unabombers against the
James Woods gang? It's just a little strange to me. And why do they
have to invite comedians to play poker? It just reminded me a bit
too much of "Celebrity Poker". Also, the prize pools are usually
miniscule and you don't usually see too many of your favorite
pros on the show - it's usually the up-and-comers. Still, I
occasionally TiVo an episode and it's nice to see a new player in
the poker TV game.
Score
Out of 10, I give Poker Royale a 6 or a
7.
You can usually catch new episodes on Friday night. View our interactive
Poker TV Schedule for repeats throughout the week.
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