Most United States players who enjoy online poker know that the U.S. government does not currently have a favorable view of online poker. Recently enacted legislation has made it more difficult for new players to deposit to an online poker room. However few people realize that some European countries are facing the same dilemma.

A few European countries such as Sweden have sought to capture some of the poker revenue by starting their own online poker rooms’ exclusive to citizens of their state. Other countries such as Germany and Finland have enacted or are trying to enact laws that ban or restrict online poker. The European Union (EU) is composed of most European nations and has rules for each member nation regarding trade. It is possible these countries will face complaints about banning online poker not only from players but from the EU and World Trade Organization as well.

It is relevant that European nations are banning online poker because it affects U.S. players and global poker sites. If a significant number of European players are prohibited from playing poker online the number of players on your favorite online poker room may be reduced. A smaller pool of players likely means fewer tournament entrants and cash game players. The reduction in players can have a trickle down effect that would be bad for poker and bad for players. Part of the lure of tournaments and cash games is the total amount of money on the table. Obviously with fewer players for tournaments and ring tables it becomes more difficult to attract players.

Another side effect is a reduction in competition. The U.S. does not have a monopoly on the best players. Some of the best competition comes from overseas. While everyone wants to make money playing online poker, it is always fun to play against good competition. This goes not only for amateur players but pros as well.

More players and good competition benefits online poker. It will be interesting to see how the various European nations move forward when it comes to making laws regulating or prohibiting online poker.