Masters Poker - Manila Guide and Review

Masters Poker - Manila, located in the vibrant Pasay area near Resorts World Manila, positions itself as a dedicated haven for poker enthusiasts. While it offers a strong focus on cash games and tournaments, potential visitors should be aware of both its appealing qualities and notable drawbacks.

The Gaming Experience

• Table Availability & Stakes: The venue boasts a good number of tables, with reported games like 25/50 available. However, there has been a concerning instance where advertised stakes (100/200 NLH) differed significantly from the actual game (100/200/400) after players had bought in, raising questions about transparency.
• Professional Dealers: Most players commend the dealers for their professionalism, contributing to a smooth gaming experience.
• Rake Structure: A significant positive highlight is the 300 PHP maximum rake, which is considered favorable by players and can lead to larger pot payouts (some pots reportedly over 10k).
• Game Types: Both cash games and tournaments are available, providing opportunities for players to "earn money" and "grind."

Amenities & Hospitality

• Food & Drinks: The food receives high praise, with prices considered reasonable (around 100 PHP for beer, 200 PHP for food). Some players even noted receiving free food, indicating a level of hospitality.
• Staff & Security: While the physical entrance might be unassuming, located in an alley, security is present. Staff are generally described as "super friendly" and "take care" of players, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

Important Considerations

While the poker environment has its upsides, several issues warrant attention:

1. Entrance & Parking: The entrance is described as being in an alley and not what one might expect from a casino. Parking is notably difficult, with motorcycles suggested as a preferred mode of transport.
2. Game Integrity Concerns: This is arguably the most critical area of concern.
   • Dishonest Stakes: As mentioned, there has been a documented case of misleading information regarding game stakes, which can be frustrating and costly for players.
   • Rules Enforcement: The "English only" rule at tables is reportedly not enforced, which can lead to discomfort or suspicion among players.
   • Collusion & Angle Shooting: Players have raised concerns about potential collusion and frequent "angle shooting," where players exploit rules or etiquette to gain an unfair advantage. These actions are reportedly "played off as a joke," suggesting a lax approach to rules and etiquette.

Overall Verdict

Masters Poker - Manila presents a mixed bag. For those seeking a poker room with professional dealers, a favorable rake, good food, and friendly staff, it offers a solid "grinding" spot. However, prospective players, especially those who value strict adherence to rules, transparent game information, and high standards of player etiquette, should proceed with caution and be prepared for potential challenges regarding game integrity and communication. The ease of access, particularly parking, is also a practical consideration for visitors.