Full Tilt to launch online casino

Full Tilt Poker is rebranding as Full Tilt Gaming ahead of the launch of an online casino, eGaming Review can confirm.

The move was announced internally last week to employees of its parent company Rational Group and will be the first non-poker launch from the Isle of Man-based firm.

“The Rational Group intends to expand our product offering to include casino style games on Full Tilt Poker,” Rational Group spokesman Eric Hollreiser said.

“While adding new games, we remain committed to building our leadership in poker with PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker and continuing to deliver the highest quality poker experience to players,” he added.

Full Tilt Poker has maintained its position as the world’s second largest poker site, but has seen its average player numbers drop by almost 50% in the last six months.

The Tapie Group, who made an aborted attempt to buy Full Tilt Poker in 2012, was believed to have made plans for the launch of an online casino and sportsbook and the site has surveyed players on the plans in recent months.

The move to launch an online casino is believed to have been supported by Rational Group COO Rafi Ashkenazi, who joined the firm from Playtech in January this year.

Hollreiser confirmed there are no plans to launch an online casino on PokerStars, despite the site signing a deal with New Jersey land-based operator Resorts Casino to run its online gaming in the state.

Rumours of the rebrand appeared first on poker blog Online Poker Report.