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Bars across the country have attempted to capitalize on the poker craze by offering free poker tournaments where winners can earn bragging rights, cash prizes and even entries to big casino tournaments.

But there may soon be an easier way for watering holes to invite wagering on poker games without attracting attention from local law enforcement. PokerTek, which makes an electronic, dealerless poker game for casinos, is also rolling out a poker game for bars, restaurants and other noncasino venues that plays like a video game.

Resembling the sit-down "Pac-Man" games of old, the "Heads-Up Challenge" game allows two people to play no-limit hold 'em poker on digital green felt for about $4.

But that probably won't be the only money changing hands.

"People are going to bet on these things like crazy," said Anthony Curtis, publisher of the Las Vegas Advisor newsletter. In other words, why spend only $4 when you and your buddy could each lay side bets of $50 on the action? Spectators could also grow that pot, he said.
By Liz Benston