YouTube vs poker content: Are content creators facing the end?

A lot has changed for many poker-focussed YouTubers since March 2025. Videos have been demonetised, blocked or age-restricted - sometimes without clear justification. Anyone who has made a living with poker content on the streaming platform is now faced with existential questions. For viewers, the question also arises: Is this the end of a popular content niche?

YouTube's changing guidelines - what's behind them?

YouTube has already restricted gambling content in the past. But now the platform is taking a tougher stance. Since the beginning of the year, stricter monetisation guidelines have been in place for all gambling-related content. These include not only classic casino games such as slots or roulette, but also strategy-based formats such as poker or blackjack.

According to YouTube's policy, the following criteria must be met for a video to be eligible for advertising revenue:

• No links to gambling sites without Google certification
• No encouragement to gamble or promotion of bets
• No content that appears "seductive" or "glamorising"
• No broadcasting of real-money games without clear categorisation (e.g. explanatory videos are permitted, game rounds are not)

According to its own statements, the aim is to "harmonise the protection of minors and advertising responsibility more closely". Criticism of this is growing.

Poker, gambling & platform rules - a complicated relationship

Poker is a borderline case. In many countries, it is considered a game of skill, for example when tournaments are held or strategies are analysed. However, for platforms such as YouTube, it is not the legal definition that counts in detail - the perception and potential risk to users is crucial.

Many poker videos are not about making a quick buck, but offer educational added value: game analyses, tournament reports, entertainment. Nevertheless, they are increasingly being treated like classic gambling videos. The result: devaluation in the algorithm, blocking, demonetisation.

The main problem here is the lack of transparency. If you upload a poker video today, you don't know whether it will still be online tomorrow - or whether it has already been deleted.

First bans and strikes: who is affected?

The list of affected creators is getting longer. Brad Owen, Nick Eastwood, Mariano Grandoli - all report drastic restrictions. Hustler Casino Live, which is one of the largest live poker channels in the world with several million views per month, was hit particularly hard.

Its channel was blocked for seven days at the end of April 2024. The reason: an alleged violation of YouTube's guidelines on sponsored content. Although no clear advertising was shown, the algorithm intervened. The incident caused heated discussions in the scene.

Other channels are also reporting:

• Revenue drops by up to 90%
• Videos disappear without warning
• Automated review processes are not working properly

The economic consequences are considerable - especially for full-time creators who rely on YouTube as their main source of income.

How content creators react - between frustration and resistance

The mood is tense. Many creators criticise the lack of transparency, the arbitrariness of decisions and the feeling that gambling content is being "punished" - even if it is factual and neutral.

Some are trying to reorganise their content in the direction of "educational poker". They no longer show real money games, but focus on strategy, psychology and game mistakes. Others are switching to Twitch, Rumble or their own websites. These alternatives offer more freedom - but also less reach and visibility.

Nick Eastwood describes the situation as follows: "We are being forced to rethink our entire business model - and without any warning."

Loopholes, alternative platforms and new formats

Creativity arises out of necessity. Creators are experimenting with new formats, such as podcasts, interviews and animated explainer videos. Some are also producing content on related topics such as trading, sports betting or game theory.

Hybrid platforms are also gaining in importance. Patreon allows content to be uploaded behind a paywall. Although this protects against YouTube's guidelines, it also reduces organic reach.

And it turns out that if you want to remain successful, you need more than just poker videos. Building your own brand, newsletter or community platform is becoming a survival factor for many.

What this means for the community

The poker community is large, committed and globally networked. However, with the withdrawal of many creators to other platforms, YouTube is losing an important part of its gambling culture. There is a vacuum, especially for viewers who are specifically looking for knowledge, entertainment or strategy tips.

Blackjack fans are also affected. Even videos about good blackjack casinos from poker companies or other relevant portals are disappearing or being demonetised. This restricts access to sound information - and drives users to less regulated sources outside of YouTube.

Yet it is precisely this kind of content that has helped many to make informed decisions and avoid dubious providers.

Between entertainment and responsibility - why poker content polarises

YouTube faces a balancing act: on the one hand, many users want to watch poker videos - whether for entertainment, to improve their strategy or out of sporting interest. On the other hand, regulatory pressure is growing, particularly from US authorities and EU commissions, which are demanding more protection for young viewers.

As a result, even harmless content is coming under general suspicion. The algorithm often knows no difference between a rebuy tournament in the casino and a humorous round of home games with friends. It is precisely this lack of differentiation that jeopardises the continued existence of numerous channels - despite their serious orientation and educational added value.

Conclusion: Poker content in crisis - or just in transition?

The current developments on YouTube are more than just a change in policy. They mark a decision on direction: gambling content is being systematically restricted - regardless of quality, seriousness or intention.

For creators, this means: find new ways or go under. Those who react quickly, adapt and diversify platforms will be able to survive in the future. Those who rely solely on YouTube are taking a big risk.

For viewers, this means critically scrutinising content, comparing sources - and daring to look beyond YouTube.

Because even if poker comes under pressure on the platform, the game itself lives on. The only question is where and how it will be played - and shown - in the future.