UB

UB
Screenshots

In an effort to turn over a new leaf, Ultimate Bet has begun pushing their instant-play poker client. This new version of their software will allow users to enjoy all of their favorite games from the convenience of nearly any computer with an internet connection. It's a good idea, and one that they pull off fairly well.

UB is one of the few big-name destinations which still welcomes US players. This is perhaps the reason for their survival, despite the well-publicized struggles of their parent company. Server security issues seem to have been solved, however, and UB is ready to make their mark in the Flash poker world.

The bonus offered here is quite attractive, as well. Their 110% up to $1,100 offer for first time depositors is one of the bigger sums you'll find among the big-name gaming companies, which makes them an attractive place for new players to learn their craft. This also means that most of the users will have a fairly low experience level, so sharks will have a relatively easy time making bank.

But the problem with servers populated by new players becomes apparent when perusing the list of UB's tables. While there is plenty of action to be found in the low-stakes games, veterans with an eye toward large pots and big games may have a hard time finding a table. The nosebleed stakes are all but abandoned, stranding you at the lower reaches of the totem pole.

There is another huge flaw regarding UB's instant play poker client. While most of the sights listed on this page are Flash-based and require no download, this particular program is rooted in Java. This also means that, despite their claim of being a no-download, instant play service, the reviewer was forced to download an 18mb 'UB Update' before the service would run on his laptop.

While that may not seem like much of an issue, it is rather misleading for the consumer. Players seeking a completely download-free product will want to look elsewhere.

With that being said, this is still one of the most visually attractive Flash/Java poker clients available. The window is reminiscent of a regularly installed gaming interface, and the responses are quick and aesthetically pleasing. The sound effects are good, and the built-in hand history system is something that other instant play poker services sometimes lack.

There is one additional piece of good news, as well. Because of their Java-based approach, the UB client is compatible with Macs. So, users of alternative operating systems can now get access to the same soft, low stakes tables that have made money for legions of their PC-using cousins.

As one would expect with an instant play poker client, there is no room in the software package for a regular cashier area. Instead, the game will open another new browser window, which will take users to the deposit area. The process itself consists of three easy steps - method selection, making the deposit, and processing the transaction.

UB features a decent selection of deposit options, including Instant eChecks, eWalletXpress, Western Union, and Visa. The most convenient method is usually the eChecks, which will drop the funds into players' accounts almost instantaneously.

Overall, it's a simple to use, standard instant play cashier.

Between their respectable stable of deposit options, sizable bonus, and large selection of games and stakes, there's a lot to like with the UB instant play client. So when all is said and done, this isn't the worst option when it comes to instant play clients. But when you're forced to download a large file to accommodate its running, why not just grab the regular version?