One of the pinnacle achievements for dedicated online poker players was attaining the prestigious Supernova Elite status on PokerStars. This elite VIP level was a symbol of dedication, skill, and endurance, but its demise marked a significant shift in the landscape of online poker loyalty programs.

Earning Supernova Elite

The journey to Supernova Elite was not for the faint of heart. Players embarked on a mission to accumulate one million VIP Player Points (VPPs) in a calendar year. These points were earned through real money cash games, tournaments, and Sit & Go games.

This demanding task required players not only to excel at the tables but also to maintain consistent high-volume play.

Volume and Requirements

In addition to the VPP requirements, players had to meet specific volume thresholds, typically measured by the total amount of rake generated or the number of tournaments played. The volume requirements ensured that achieving Supernova Elite wasn't just about grinding at high stakes but also about consistently contributing to the poker ecosystem. The balance between skill, volume, and dedication defined the path to Supernova Elite.

Benefits of Supernova Elite

The allure of Supernova Elite extended beyond the virtual felt. Players who attained this elite status enjoyed a range of exclusive benefits. Higher VIP rewards, access to private promotions and tournaments, personalized customer support, and other perks made it a coveted status among the poker community. Supernova Elite was not just a badge; it was a ticket to an elevated poker experience.

In addition to standard VIP rewards, Supernova Elite players often received milestone bonuses for reaching specific VPP targets. These bonuses added an extra layer of income based on the player's dedication and volume of play.

When the value of frequent player points and freeroll entries were taken into consideration, Supernova Elite players were collecting upwards of $135,000.

The Changing Landscape

However, as the poker ecosystem evolved, so did the strategies employed by online poker platforms to reward player loyalty. In an effort to create a more balanced rewards system and address concerns about the concentration of rewards among a small percentage of players, PokerStars initiated significant changes to its VIP program.

The Demise of Supernova Elite

In the wake of these changes, PokerStars made the tough decision to discontinue the Supernova Elite status in 2015. The once-aspirational pinnacle of the VIP program gave way to a new era where rewards were distributed more evenly among players of varying levels. While the decision sparked mixed reactions within the poker community, it reflected the platform's commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of its diverse player base.

PokerStars Rolls Back the Years

On January 15, 2024, PokerStars announced another shake-up to their loyalty program titled PokerStars Rewards. This saw the inclusion of two new tiers, Select and Select Plus.

While the benefits from these tiers are not as lucrative as the old Supernova Elite, it is the most generous the site has been since those days.

New PokerStars Reward Program Schedule