NEW YORK -- Beyond Free Games, Fans Can Get Tips from the Pros and Even Win a Chance to Compete in the World Series of Poker

Poker has never been hotter among everyone from casual fans to the most avid players. Now anyone with an interest in poker can visit AOL's new World Series of Poker hub (http://wsop.aol.com) for a wealth of content including free games and more from the World Series of Poker - the No. 1 brand in poker and most prestigious poker tournament in the world.

Now available throughout the AOL(R) service on areas such as AOL(R) Games, AOL(R) Vegas, and AIM(R), poker fans can access free-play poker games for novice, intermediate and advanced players; private poker rooms and single-table tournaments and other content designed to enhance the player experience and improve the prowess of poker enthusiasts of every skill level. Coming soon, poker fans can access behind-the-scenes reports from the World Series of Poker(R) and tips from professional players.

As the exclusive online partner to Harrah's for the World Series of Poker brand, AOL will be the only free-play Internet poker game offering in the United States where, subject to applicable laws, 12 poker fans per year 21 years of age or older can win a free seat valued at $10,000 to play in the 2006 or 2007 World Series of Poker Main Events.

"Honing your skills online is a great way to raise your game and prepare for the real thing," said Scotty Nguyen, a poker legend and 1998 World Series of Poker Main Event winner. "The World Series of Poker on AOL is a great resource to improve your knowledge, build your confidence and learn directly from the pros how the game should be played."

"The door to the World Series of Poker is always open on AOL," said Jeffrey Pollack, Vice President of Sports and Entertainment Marketing for Harrah's. "Whether you are an expert or novice poker player, AOL has something for you."

"The popularity of poker has carried over into the online world where poker is constantly among the most played games on AOL," said Ralph Rivera, Vice President and General Manager, AOL Games. "For everyone driving this poker craze, whether they're a lifelong fan or new to the game, all of the exciting World Series of Poker content and gameplay in AOL's new poker area is sure to please."