The Russian government made a big hoo-ha about banishing its poker and gambling establishments to the four remote corners of the country last year, but recently, experts on the ground tell us that the ban on poker is nothing more than words. In actual fact, they say, poker has never been more popular in the country, as more players than ever pitch their skills at an ever-growing number of poker rooms.

One typical area is Novey Arbat Street in Moscow, which used to draw the crowds with bright flashing neon lights. While the lights have been dimmed, industry experts say that behind closed doors, poker players are just as active and enjoying poker more than ever. While the police are requested to arrest these players and close down the establishments, they simply do not have the manpower or resources to do so.

Russia has certainly tried to clamp down on poker, and even banned the Russian Sports Poker Federation earlier this year. However, as an act of defiance and total disregard for what they consider a very bad law, the federation continues to operate quite openly.

“I heard something about the ruling [of being banned],” said the President of the Federation, Dmitry Lesnoy half mockingly. “But no one notified me personally, so I can’t say – did it take place or not?”

By the looks of it, poker is definitely not going anywhere in Russia. Besides the fact that poker and gambling clubs still flaunt their services in public in full view of the authorities, internet poker is still very much an available option for players who want to enjoy quality poker form the comfort of their own homes.

In addition, even those who can’t find poker clubs in their hometowns can take a quick flight to any of the neighboring countries and play to their hearts’ content.