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PokerStars Streamlines Spin & Go Games and Adds MTT Duration Tool

PokerStars Streamlines Spin & Go Games and Adds MTT Duration Tool

PokerStars has been busy on a lot of fronts this summer. This time, we’re talking about its latest software update for May 2025 came with two changes targeted at the playing experience. Between a new machine learning-powered tool for estimating tournament length and a rework of its Spin & Go deal, players can expect more information upfront and less time waiting in the lobby.

Here’s what’s changing — and why.

Tournament Time Predictions Now Available (Starting in Ontario)

One of the most practical additions in the latest release is a new tournament duration estimator. Built using machine learning, this tool predicts how long a scheduled MTT (Multi-Table Tournament) is expected to last. The estimate is displayed in the tournament lobby, giving players a better sense of whether they’re committing to a quick grind or an extended deep run.

Initially, this feature is being rolled out in Ontario, with plans to expand to other markets over the coming weeks.

The goal is simple: help players plan their time more effectively before jumping into a tournament. Especially in a world where some MTTs run for a few hours while others stretch into the night, knowing the likely duration upfront is a welcome bit of transparency.

Spin & Go and Spin & Go Flash Have Been Merged

As of June 9, PokerStars has merged two of its most popular game formats — Spin & Go and Spin & Go Flash — into one unified game with dynamic speed settings based on prize pool multipliers.

Spin & Go on PokerStars.

Here’s how the new structure works:

  • Lower multipliers (2x–5x) = faster games, smaller starting stacks, shorter levels
  • Higher multipliers (10x–12,000x) = slower-paced games, deeper stacks, longer levels

This table breaks it down:

MultiplierStarting StackLevel Length (Minutes)
2x300 chips1 minute
3x300 chips2 minutes
4x400 chips2 minutes
5x400 chips3 minutes
10x–25x500 chips3 minutes
50x500 chips4 minutes
100x–12,000x500 chips5 minutes

According to PokerStars, the merge is designed to reduce waiting times and improve overall flow. Rather than splitting players between two lobbies with different speeds, the platform now has one larger pool, meaning games will start more quickly.

It’s also meant to balance speed and strategy: fast-paced action when there’s not much on the line, and more time to think when serious prize money is up for grabs.

This structure has already been tested on PokerStars Italy, where it received positive feedback. Going forward, the new Spin & Go format will also apply to Spin & Go Omaha.

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Written By: Iva Dozet News Editor