Bodog has long been a favorite among the sports betting public. They recently made some changes that some have found confusing. They split their USA business off into a separate domain, Bovada.LV - Why they chose the Latvia domain extension is curious to say the least, but it doesn't really matter much. Here are some important details:
What is different about Bovada?
Nothing really, except the domain name and the fact that it is a USA only site. The site and software function the same way as they did before when USA players were logging into Bodog.com. The same old login/pass that you had on Bodog now gets you into Bovada. Morris Mohawk Gaming Group is still the sole operator.
What is new about Bovada?
There have been some upgrades to the casino side of things. There is a new flash powered lobby and the cashier has had an upgrade. It is easier to purchase and cash out chips, view account history and wagering history, etc. One of the frequently asked questions about the change is why they chose the .LV extension (which is generally reserved for domain names registered in Latvia!). Bodog/Bovada notes that they hope the "LV" extension will remind their users of "Las Vegas"... the obvious Mecca of gaming.
Why the change to Bovada?
I suspect that by splitting off their USA player base, the Bodog.com brand will have a much easier time, legally, of entering various gambling regulated markets in Europe. There are also some rumors swirling that possibly the attempt at the "LV" extension connection to Las Vegas, might be in anticipation of favorable online gaming legislation in Nevada. There has been no official statement as to "why", that I am aware of.
Any special Bovada promos?
The deposit bonuses and such as all pretty much the same as they were on Bodog.com. The VIP program functions the same. Bovada launched the "Black Diamond Poker Open", which is a 52 event tournament series to be played out in March and April of 2012. Total prize pools will be over $750,000, with the main event being a $50,000 guaranteed pool of cash.
Finally, the popular Bodog free bankroll that was open to USA players has been migrated over as well. For $25 on the house to get a bankroll started, USA players can register to receive a Bovada Free Bankroll - No Deposit Bonus (USA players only, and must be a first time, new account!)
Final note. I have accounts at pretty much all of the popular USA facing poker sites. Bovada and America's Cardroom (previously Doyles Room), have had the best cashout times by far. This can change day to day, week to week though. Lock Poker (on the Merge network) recently launched a stand alone cashier and is bragging about faster cashout times and better deposit options.
Final note II - The USA legal situation is still murky, even though the legal momentum is heading in the right direction. It is advisable to never leave a huge balance in an online poker account if you are a USA resident.
