The first world amateur poker championships was held in 1998 as part of the second Mind Sports Olympiad.^[49] The inaugural event was criticised for the standard of the play^[50] and for the events unique feature as only being played for medals and not for money. However, since the poker internet revolution the event continued to flourish with increased numbers.^[18] The event also is open to under 18s which the MSO also gives a title since money doesn’t change hands^[51]

The 2012 tournament consists of the best results from 5 of 7 pot limit poker tournaments in the following variants^[52]