It was 50 years ago this month that humanity first reached the surface of the moon.
On July 21, 1969, Neil Armstrong stepped down from the Apollo 11 landing module onto lunar soil and uttered some of the most famous words ever spoken: “That’s one small step for (a) man, one giant leap for mankind.”
Buzz Aldrin descends to the lunar surface — without cards and chips as originally planned. (Photo: NASA)
Most of the landing went according to plan, but there was one regrettable omission. At the request of President Richard Nixon, a passionate poker player, the original mission briefing had called for Buzz Aldrin to join Armstrong on the surface for a game of cards. But while warming up the night before, the two had lost their folding table and poker chips to their fellow Apollo astronaut Michael Collins.
There was a backup deck of cards handy, but Armstrong and Aldrin felt bad asking to borrow the table and chips they’d just lost to Collins. The poor guy had to stay on the command module while they experienced the glory of walking on the moon! So the planned session was scrapped.
We can’t say with absolute certainty that this hidden gem of history was the inspiration for the Galaxy Space Station, the newest location featured in the update for PokerStars VR that goes live goes live on Tuesday, July 9th. Then again, we can’t say for sure that it wasn’t. But there’s one thing we can tell you without any doubt: if you like poker and you have a VR headset, you have to play this game.
Whether you’re looking for cash games or sit-and-go tournament action, PokerStars VR provides it all in some of the most spectacular locations imaginable. The new Galaxy Space Station joins Macau 2050, the Monte Carlo Yacht, and Showdown Saloon as locations where you can play in private games with friends or challenge players from around the world.
The new Stars Cred system allows players to buy all the props, apparel, and consumables they need to outfit their journey into the unknown. Prices start at $1.99 for 200 creds.
And the new Stash tab allows players to permanently own and spawn any item they’ve purchased in PokerStars VR. The latest update also includes all sorts of new items, from space monkeys and remote controlled rockets to new clothes, hats, and props.
“The experience of PokerStars VR is really one of a kind and its unique immersion and social poker experience has helped create a really engaged community. We’ve seen PokerStars VR go from strength to strength with these updates,” said Severin Rasset, Director of Poker Innovation and Operations at PokerStars. “PokerStars VR will continue its journey by delighting our players and providing a unique thrill and experience. In addition to the Macau Suite and the Showdown Saloon, we now have tables in the Milky Way and the ability to personalize your experience to new levels!”
PokerStars VR is available on the new all-in-one VR system, the Oculus Quest, as well as Viveport and Steam.