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No Tech Allowed: WSOP Paradise Rulebook Sets New Standards

No Tech Allowed: WSOP Paradise Rulebook Sets New Standards
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Iva Dozet News Editor
  • Fact Checked by: PokerListings
  • Last updated on: December 2, 2024 · 2 minutes to read

The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is raising the stakes when it comes to tournament integrity with new electronic device rules, debuting at the WSOP Paradise Series in the Bahamas this December. These changes follow a tumultuous summer where whispers of unfair play overshadowed the glory of high-stakes poker. Now, as players prepare to battle it out at Atlantis Paradise Island, they’ll need to leave more than just bad beats behind — they’ll also need to rethink how they use their devices at the table.

The updated rules, highlighted by poker community figure Kevin “Kevmath” Mathers on X, aim to address long-standing concerns over real-time assistance (RTA) tools and rail-side coaching. With stricter policies in place, it looks like the WSOP is hoping to create a more level playing field this December.

Key Changes to Electronic Device Rules

So, what does the updated WSOP Paradise rulebook actually say? As it goes, the bulk of the rule changes can be grouped into three main areas: the prohibition of electronic assistance, mandatory removal of devices during critical stages, and restrictions on device placement at the table.

Rule 63b: Prohibition of Electronic Assistance

Players and spectators are now expressly barred from using charts, apps, or any form of electronic assistance during tournaments. The rule also prohibits spectators from providing live coaching or viewing livestreams in the tournament room. Any violations could lead to severe consequences: spectators may be removed, and players associated with them could face penalties, up to and including disqualification.

Rule 63c: Device-Free Final Stages

As tournaments narrow to three tables, players are required to remove all electronic devices from the table and tournament area. These devices can only be accessed during official breaks or after elimination. This rule ensures that players at critical moments of competition are fully focused on gameplay and not distracted by or reliant on their devices.

Rule 62: Restrictions on Device Placement

Under this rule, electronic devices — including phones, tablets, and noise-canceling headphones — cannot be placed on poker tables or their rails during gameplay. By enforcing this rule, the WSOP minimizes the risk of subtle rule breaches, such as referencing unauthorized information during hands. The restriction applies universally across all stages of the tournament.

A Bit of Context: A WSOP Summer of Controversy

The decision to tighten device regulations follows a tumultuous Main Event at the 2024 WSOP in Las Vegas. Jonathan Tamayo’s $10 million victory was overshadowed by accusations surrounding his rail, which was spotted with a laptop allegedly running RTA software. While no direct evidence linked Tamayo to the use of the software, his interactions with rail members sparked questions about potential advantages.

WSOP 2024 Main Event Winner Jonathan Tamayo
Jonathan Tamayo

Had the new rules been in effect at the time, the outcome might have looked different. Spectators consulting devices for real-time assistance would have been removed, and any associated players could have faced penalties. Form the looks of it, the controversy surrounding Tamayo’s win served as a wake-up call for the poker world, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to safeguard the game’s credibility.

The WSOP Paradise Series will mark the first implementation of these changes, setting the stage for what could become a broader shift in tournament policy. While it remains unclear if these rules will carry over to the 2025 WSOP in Las Vegas, the focus on fair play sends a strong message to players and fans alike.

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