Looking for Advice

Hi everyone, I just joined today and hope to get some answers to things that I’ve been curious about within the realm of starting up my own online poker room. I know, there are tons of them out there, and loads more backed by every pro on earth. I’ve got my own reasons for starting them, but consider myself wise enough NOT to go with one of those “turn key” programs where they fool you into promoting on the Affiliate end, with a lower payout %. I know, I’ve done extensive work in the gaming and adult industries back when people used to sign up for newsletters just to get email in their boxes!

Anyhow, onto the point of this thread. I’m an avid poker player, I love the game, always have. I play all the time, off and online, I’ve played in the WSOP (made the money in 2004), have won tournaments in Aruba and in AC. Now, as a poker player, I want to create an enviroment for others based on what I think all rooms lack. So there’s my different approach, rather than just opening one to make money. As far as marketing is concerned, I consider myself a pro at it, and have worked on some of the largest casinos in the world back in the mid-late 90’s. So I’ve got that down pat too.

For a place to operate, here’s where it get’s a bit tricky. I’m pretty sure I can open up shop in Aruba, but the only one guy I know out there is UBet, and he owns a land based casino. What are some of the laws that I need to ask about or find out about? What type of lawyer do I consult? Any help on legalities would be absolutely tremendous.

Now here’s the real area that I feel I lack the most knowledge. Game design. I have absolutely no idea who I’m supposed to contact for this. I guess, I can go down the list of developers (Boss Media, iGlobal etc) and try and ask around, but if any of you know of a development team or a firm out there that specializes in quality game design, please point me in the correct direction.

Marketing. I’m almost positive I’ve got this down pat. I’ve built up some very successful affiliate programs, and have great contacts in this area. I’m also a professional SEO, so I don’t think I’ll have many problems.

Cash. This one might be tough too, but that all depends on what you guys/girls think a ballpark figure is for a custom poker room. I’ve got a lot of good ties with very strong investors, and so far, I’ve pitched my new ideas to them (with a lawyer and tons of forms present) and I can most probably secure all of them, if not I’ve got lots of outlets possible. If I do choose to accept investors, what is a fair % to offer them?

Thanks for reading my post. If any of you are current owners of poker rooms or internet casinos and would like to exchange or barter tips/connections for SEO or Affiliate generating ideas, please PM me. I’m open to any suggestion. Thanks!