An explanation of how Zynga Poker shuffles the deck

We frequently get questions asking if Zynga Poker is rigged or favors certain players. We want to assure everyone that Zynga Poker's shuffling is random. 

To make sure the game is fair to everybody, we use the Fisher-Yates shuffling algorithm, a best-in-class algorithm for producing a random shuffle.

Whenever we make changes to the game, like new features that could affect the quality of the shuffle, we audit the resulting hands dealt to make sure they are random. For example, we make sure that every seat has an equal chance of getting any particular set of hole cards on any given hand.

Our shuffling and dealing algorithms have no knowledge of and are thus indiscriminate to the players involved in any particular hand. There is no favoritism or edge given to any player based on his or her status, level, or chip stack. Everyone has the same opportunity to have luck on their side.

Still not convinced? We often hear from players asking why are there so many royal flushes or why are there more big hands in Zynga Poker than in other poker situations?

This is just a common misconception, as these hand are naturally more memorable. Also, there are more hands being played and at a much faster rate, which statistically drives up the number of big and amazing wins.

Our tables hold up to 9 players at once which means 23 of the 52 possible cards will be in play at any given time, that's almost half the deck! So now you know the truth about Zynga Poker.

As poker pro Phil Hellmuth says, "Poker is 100% skill and 50% luck." 

Now let's play some poker and may luck be on your side!