Topic: Poker Meets Casino: How Affiliates Can Bridge Audiences Across Vertical Boundaries

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He has won a slew of awards throughout his career in iGaming. Among them, the most prestigious are the following:

  • Askgamblers Awards Best Partner 2021
  • EGR Nordics Awards for Best Affiliate Programme 2022
  • Affpapa Awards Affiliate Programme of the Year 2022
  • SBC Awards 2022 for Affiliate Programme of the Year

But if those accolades are not enough, then allow us to sing Jarosch’ praises. The founder of Mithrillium Media Ltd. has dedicated his career to pushing the iGaming industry in the right direction. He is user-oriented, with a special focus on transparency and honesty. This gives him a unique view into the future of the iGaming industry, and where it might go. That is why we’ve invited him here to answer our questions on the subject.

Interview Questions:

Poker and casino audiences have traditionally been treated as separate, why do you think affiliates are now trying to bridge the two?

Most Poker affiliates are struggling as the popularity of poker has declined over the years. By adding additional verticals to their sites they can diversify their traffic and increase their commissions. Many poker players enjoy the thrill of slots, live dealer games, or sports betting, while casino players are curious about poker's social aspect. Even though the motivations of both player groups are different, they share the same love for gambling.

What are the main similarities and differences in behavior between poker players and casino players from an affiliate’s perspective?

Both player groups are looking for fair games, lucrative bonus offers, and reliable payments. Poker players are all about beating the game with strategy, while casino players are more interested in quick entertainment and the thrill of casino games. Affiliates need to tailor their content accordingly to engage both types of audiences. Poker content rewards depth, for example, while casino content favors simplicity.

Do poker focused audiences respond differently to content like reviews, rankings, and bonus offers compared to casino audiences?

Poker players are very selective when choosing their poker rooms. They look at soft games, liquidity, rake structures, tournament schedules, software quality, and rakeback before signing up. Casino players respond more to welcome offers, licensing, payment speed, and game selection, so affiliates must communicate differently with each group.

Source: yogonet.com

How can affiliates build trust with poker players, who often value strategy, community, and transparency more than casual casino users?

Poker players want to improve their game and increase their earnings. Affiliates should publish strategy articles, in-depth room reviews, and offer additional value to attract players. Running affiliate promotions such as races helps build loyalty and attract new players.

Have you seen examples where poker content successfully converted users into trying casino or sportsbook products, or vice versa?

Poker players often engage with other verticals after a session of cash games or between tournaments. They are quite savvy and will still be on the lookout for favorable odds or ways to beat the house at the blackjack tables. Affiliates that integrate subtle cross-promotions, such as side bets or free spins tied to poker events, tend to see strong results.

What kind of content formats work best for cross-vertical promotion - strategy guides, tournaments, bonus comparisons, or influencer-driven content?

Bonus comparisons work best with poker players, as favorable promotions increase their chances of making a profit. Players trust credible voices, such as influencers, who can naturally introduce other products and provide a quick crash course in strategy. Interactive tools like tournament trackers, odds trackers, or casino bonus filters also help users discover new verticals.

Do you think operators themselves encourage affiliates to blend poker and casino promotions, or do they prefer to keep them segmented?

It really depends on the operator and their main product. For affiliates, it makes more sense to segment products to match the primary intent of the players. Poker, however, is a strong acquisition tool that often creates a closer connection with affiliates. Sites like Casino Groups, on the other hand, are highly specialized and focus exclusively on the casino product rather than branching out into other verticals.

What risks do affiliates face in trying to cross-promote poker and casino content, and how do you mitigate them?

The main risk is pushing casino games too heavily to poker players. This can quickly damage trust and make them feel exploited. Poker players enjoy side games at poker tables and appreciate value-driven promotions that give them an edge.

How do you see technology (such as AI-driven personalization) helping affiliates recommend the right mix of poker and casino products to users?

AI can analyze user behavior to identify intent. Poker players who also engage with casino games or sports betting can receive personalized offers or odds for their favorite games. This allows affiliates to tailor offers and content dynamically. The result is smarter cross-promotion that feels organic and helpful rather than imposed.

Looking ahead, do you think poker and casino affiliation will merge more closely, or will these verticals always remain partly distinct?

Many poker affiliates have added casino and sports betting reviews to their portfolios. Poker will always attract a strategy-focused community, while casinos cater to broader entertainment audiences. Affiliates that respect these differences while offering connected experiences will thrive.