Review: 'Stacked' deals out mediocre poker play

Marc Saltzman, Gannett News Service, Friday, June 30, 2006 - Often referred to as "America's new national pastime," poker has exploded over the past couple of years -- specifically Texas Hold 'Em games, a popular poker variant that has spawned TV shows, online competitions and even poker chips sold at local convenience stores.

Video game publishers also have jumped on the bandwagon. The latest offering is "Stacked" with Daniel Negreanu, a Texas Hold 'Em game with optional video advice provided by the Canadian poker champion, whose total tournament winnings to date exceed $8 million.

While "Stacked" gamers will find value in the 15-part tutorial hosted by Negreanu, the game's finicky artificial intelligence and average presentation results in a mediocre poker experience.

Ironically, the game's artificial intelligence is supposed to be its signature feature. "Stacked" is billed as the first poker video game to license the Pokibot AI system, which tries to learn your playing habits and alter its strategy accordingly.

However, the computer-controlled players at the table were not the brightest: One raised the stakes six times in a row, only to have a high card (not even a pair), while another with a very good hand failed to bet much at all.

For a speedy game, you can choose the Quick Play mode -- simulated cash games or single table tournaments -- both of which include real-time tips from Negreanu.

You must choose an onscreen avatar, or you can tweak the features to create a custom player. Unfortunately, the voices and appearances of some of the characters are stereotypical.

The lengthy Career mode starts you off with a relatively small bankroll. As you build up your winnings, bigger tournaments will become available, plus bonus locations will become unlocked. Unlike in the Quick Play mode, Career players will face off against real poker pros, such as Josh Arieh, Evelyn Ng, Erick Lindgren and Jennifer Harman.

You also can compete over the Internet against "Stacked" poker players from around the world. Signing into the lobby to join a game proved easy enough, but finding other players was not simple as there were few players to meet. Once in an online match, however, the game plays smoothly and includes an intuitive chat option.

While the player models are attractive, the animation is stiff and unrealistic. What's more, odd things take place during the game such as players disappearing when they stand up to "leave" the table. The environments are attractive, though, such as the rotating Las Vegas Stratosphere Casino.

Overall, "Stacked" is an average Texas Hold 'Em game that may appeal to some poker enthusiasts looking for Negreanu's helpful advice, but the so-so game play prevents it from being a must-have title.

CNN.com - 2006-07-03 13:56:26