It’s been a mystery why the most popular form of poker has not been available in the new gaming hotbed of Macau. The resort has been growing by leaps and bounds, but until recently poker was not on the menu. But good action has a way of finding avid gamers, and holdem has landed in China. This past week the Chinese government authorized local casinos to offer Texas Holdem action, so it’s game on in Asia.

The first casino that will offer Texas Holdem is the Grand Lisboa, the flagship casino of Sociedade de Jogos de Macau. They will start with four tables and will see how local players respond. The other Vegas-based companies in Macau are fully expected to follow suit, and Texas Holdem should soon be available throughout the resort. This could be the first step towards another poker boom in the massive Asia gaming market.