Why does Absolute Poker allow US players to play real money games while PartyPoker doesn't?

Answer 1

It's not illegal to play poker for money in the US. It's illegal to transact the money through the bank. So Absolute gets around it by using third party money bankers. PartyPoker doesnt have that facility.

Answer 2

Because Absolute Poker is outside the jurisdiction of the U.S. on a ship outside of the territorial waters of the US. so the laws dont apply. PartyPoker is inside the US and cannot use real money.

Answer 3

kinvadave has the right answer.