GGPoker has officially announced Ocean Rewards, a new player loyalty system that will replace the long-running Fish Buffet program when it launches on January 30, 2026.
The update represents a redesign of GGPoker’s rewards structure, with a shift toward long-term value, simplified progression, and tier stability.
Ocean Rewards Overview
Ocean Rewards introduces a two-currency system built around Tide Points and Gems, both earned through real-money play.
Tide Points are earned at a fixed rate of 100 points for every $1 in rake generated and are used for tier progression.
Gems are earned alongside Tide Points and serve as the primary reward currency. As players move up the tier ladder, Gem earning rates and exchange value increase.
The new system raises the maximum possible cashback to 80%, up from the 60% cap under Fish Buffet.
Tier Structure and Guaranteed Status
Ocean Rewards tiers range from Fish at the entry level through to Shark at the top, with intermediate tiers including Octopus.
Once a tier is reached, that status remains locked through the end of the following calendar year.
Higher tiers offer improved Gem earning rates.
Automatic Transition From Fish Buffet
The migration from Fish Buffet to Ocean Rewards will take place automatically on January 30, 2026.
For most players, no action is required. GGPoker noted that players in certain regions may need to manually opt in through the game client.
All pending Fish Buffet rewards will be:
- Automatically cashed out to the player’s account balance
- Preserved in full during the transition
In addition, all players will receive a free promotion to a higher tier under Ocean Rewards.
Tier Conversion Details
Final Ocean Rewards tier placement will be based on whichever of the following is higher:
- A player’s Fish Buffet rank on January 30, 2026
- A rank calculated from Fish Points earned between January 1, 2025 and January 30, 2026
As a specific example, Fish Buffet Platinum Octopus players will be promoted directly into the Octopus tier.
To address the shorter qualification window at the start of 2026, Fish Points earned between December 1, 2025 and January 30, 2026 will automatically convert into Tide Points.
Key Features at a Glance
| Category | Ocean Rewards |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | January 30, 2026 |
| Max Cashback | Up to 80% |
| Tier Security | Locked through end of next year |
| Reward Currencies | Tide Points, Gems |
| Enrollment | Automatic |
| Upgrade Bonus | Free tier promotion |
Eligibility
Ocean Rewards applies to all existing GGPoker players, current Fish Buffet members, and new sign-ups after launch.
Management Commentary
Sarne Lightman, Managing Director of GGPoker, said the new loyalty system reflects a move away from short-term grinding incentives toward long-term security and value, with guaranteed yearly status and a higher cashback ceiling.
