Social casinos are now big business, bringing people together in a virtual casino experience on mobile devices and social networks. They serve as an alternative form of online entertainment for users who cannot access real money online casinos. Users can play games, win bonuses and interact with fellow gamers all from their own devices.
Here, you can find out all you need to know on the top social casino sites, including how to registers, the games and bonuses offered and more.
Social casinos vs. real money online casinos
In gameplay terms, social casinos and the traditional online options are very similar, with many of the same games available to play including slots and table games.
The big difference is in the prizes. Instead of direct money wins, social casinos offer a path to prizes through sweepstakes.
Where real money casinos allow users to directly stake deposits (some by way of online casino bonuses), social enterprises operate via free coins, primarily for entertainment. Some, however, provide ways to exchange these coins for sweepstakes coins and, subsequently, cash prizes.
Are social casinos legal where you live?
While social casinos are mostly legal across the United States, there are some exceptions depending on where you live. Because the games are generally played with coins and not real cash, state gambling restrictions may not apply.
While Nevada, Washington and Idaho do currently prohibit online social casinos and legal status can otherwise vary, most do allow access to platforms. Users are recommended to check local regulations prior to playing to ensure the activity is permitted.
Social casinos we recommend
As with any online gambling outlet, potential customers should take care in vetting online social casinos before signing up.
Each social casino is different, featuring its own advantages and drawbacks to the service, and users would be advised to look into these ahead of making any decisions.
Read on to find out more about the best social casinos, their merits and disadvantage so you can make the best possible choice.
High 5 Casino
High 5 Casino is legal in 46 states and has built up a strong reputation as one of the best social casinos on the market. Among its top selling points are a huge library of 1200 games for users to enjoy and a dynamic playing experience.
Slots, blackjack, roulette and video poker are just some of the games currently available on High 5, which is known in particular for its extensive slot collection and has a team dedicated to game production. Users can enjoy a tailored mobile game experience which could not be easier to pick up, and there are also several deposit options for purchasing gold gameplay coins.
New customers can take advantage of an offer that hands out five Sweeps Coins, 250 Gold Coins and 600 Diamonds, one of the most attractive newcomer deals out there.
Pulsz Casino
Pulsz Casino is another market leader which has earned a strong reputation off the back of its game selection, platform flexibility and rewards program. Slot games are a particular strength, though customers may find table games are somewhat limited in range.
Pulsz Casino also operates a VIP rewards program which allows players to rack up points and earn additional rewards. Attractive signup and bonus promotions also contribute to make Pulsz Casino one of the top online social casinos currently on the market. New players can receive up to 367,000 Gold Coins and 32.3 Sweepstakes Coins by taking advantage of the site’s welcome bonus when they sign up.
WOW Vegas Casino
WOW Vegas Casino offers users a library of more than 300 games, among which are authentic slot games such as Big Bass Bonanza. Coins are available for purchase to take advantage of enhanced gameplay.
One of the benefits of WOW is a rewarding promotional structure, which includes a daily login bonus for higher-volume players. It is an excellent choice for players who want to enjoy the authentic casino game experience, as well as receiving a generous welcome bonus and explore gaming on social casinos.
Chumba Casino
Chumba Casino has been around since 2017 and is one of the most popular casinos currently operating.
While there are no real money options for gamers, the casino does offer generous incentives, which includes bonus offers for sweepstakes coins. Free sweepstakes and gold coins are on offer for players every time they sign in, a promotion which helps Chumba Casino stand out in its market.
Fortune Coins Casino
Fortune Coins Casino is a suitable option for those in North America seeking to play casino games. The app’s visual design is appealing and conducive to user engagement, making it a great choice for immediate gameplay without focusing on sweepstakes aspects.
A drawback of Fortune Coins Casino is its unfavorable exchange rate for sweepstakes coins compared to other social casinos. While gold coins are abundant and easily obtained, the exchange rate for Fortune Coins is 100 coins for $1, which is less favorable. Despite the exchange rate issue, Fortune Coins Casino offers generous welcome bonuses and daily login bonuses.
Stake.us Social Casino
Stake.us Casino stands apart from its competitors with its approach to social casino gaming.
The casino operates with a cryptocurrency-based model, where users play with two types of coins: Gold coins, which are free, and redeemable Stake Cash. Stake Cash can then be converted to the cryptocurrency of the gamer’s choice instead of cash.
As well as that unique model, Stake.us features roulette, baccarat, blackjack and many other games, including exclusive game Stake.us has developed in-house.
Funzpoints Casino
Funzpoints Casino is an online sweepstakes casino open to gamers in the United States. Unlike most operators, it is a web-based platform which does not offer a mobile version.
Users can choose from over 75 games, with slots and keno taking center-stage. Table games are not available. Added benefits, such as removing ads and boosts on games, are available to purchase.
Gamers can also purchase sweepstakes coins and bypass the accumulation of gold coins, in order to earn tokens that can be exchanged for real money.
LuckyLand Slots
A slots-focused social casino, Luckyland Slots offers generous welcome bonuses to new customers. Luckyland uses a familiar prize structure, offering both Gold Coins and Sweepstakes Coins.
Users can take advantage of a daily login bonus, with 2400 gold coins and one-third of a sweepstakes coin available every 24 hours. The casino also makes good use of social media, which it utilizes to promote new bonuses and offers to attract gamers.
It is open to play in 48 states and restricted in Washington and Michigan, though reward limitations are in place in Idaho. Players can access Luckyland via mobile and desktop platforms.
Hard Rock Social Casino
As the name suggests, Hard Rock Social Casino comes with the backing of the world-famous Hard Rock brand. Generous welcome bonuses are on offer, while the focus here is on generating an enjoyable social gaming experience. That means a design featuring a sleek color palette, which is almost indistinguishable from real money apps.
Hard Rock is available on both desktop and mobile and offers slot and table games for users, as well as multiple promotions to attract and keep customers. Fun is the aim here, rather than big wins. This makes Hard Rock an exciting, refreshing alternative.
How do social casinos work?
Social casinos are very similar to their mainstream online counterparts. Players can enjoy games like slots, poker and blackjack.
There is one key difference, however. No real money is gambled. Users play with virtual currencies that cannot be traded in for cash, usually following this system…
- Users play with two types of virtual currency: Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins. Gold Coins are used for casual gaming, just for fun. Sweeps Coins, sometimes offered as prizes, may be used in promotional play.
- Just like in a real casino, you can choose from a variety of games. The outcomes are determined by random number generators, ensuring fairness in gameplay.
- You can obtain Gold Coins by purchasing them, winning them, or through site promotions. Sweeps Coins are usually obtained through various promotions, by logging in daily, or by mail-in offers.
- Because real money isn’t technically at stake, social casinos are legal in most U.S. states and other jurisdictions where online gambling might be prohibited. They operate under U.S. sweepstakes laws, which allow people to participate in contests and games to win prizes.
- While you can’t win cash directly from playing games with Gold Coins, Sweeps Coins can be used for playing games that offer the opportunity to redeem winnings for real cash prizes, depending on the site’s terms and conditions.
- Players don’t risk losing real money but can still experience the thrill of wagering and winning.
- Many social casinos are accessible via a web browser, mobile app, or both, making it easy to play on a variety of devices.
Users turn to social casinos to enjoy all the fun of casino games without risking financial losses and other risks that are associated with gambling.
Social casino bonuses and promotions
Social casinos, like many operators in the online gambling industry, make frequent use of welcome bonuses. They may offer free gold coins for entertainment purposes; these do not have monetary value.
Sweepstakes casinos differ slightly in that their rewards can often be redeemed for prizes. The bonuses they offer can include bonus sweepstakes coins and gold coins.
Before playing, it is a good idea to look at the exchange rate each casino offers to convert money or gold coins to sweepstakes coins. This allows you to get a sense of what is needed to earn rewards.
No-deposit bonuses
One common promotion for new players is the offer of no deposit bonuses. This allows users to begin playing on the platform without putting down any of their own money.
This is a common feature of social casinos, unlike the traditional kind which usually require a cash deposit to get started. Players merely need to create their account, claim any available bonuses and start gaming, using the coins offered by the bonus.
Sweepstakes Coins
Sweepstakes coins are the primary method through which users can win real money prizes. Generally, they can be earned by accumulating gold coins through bonuses or gameplay.
Those gold coins can then be turned in for sweepstakes coins, which are then in turned used in exchange for prizes. While the exact exchange rate differs from casino to casino, a coin to a dollar is usually the benchmark.
Free Coins
Free coins, or gold coins depending on the casino, are the most common reward for players. They have no real cash value, with players accumulating them through bonuses or gameplay.
Once enough gold coins have been collected, on some social casinos they can then be swapped for sweepstake coins, which do have cash value.
Is it worth playing on social casinos?
Social casinos can be the perfect introduction to the experience of casino gaming, as they allow players to enjoy slots and table games without the risk of losing money.
They are also much more widely available than traditional online casinos, with just a handful of states restricting their activity.
How to pick a social casino
It is important to look carefully into a social casino’s payout structure before signing up. This allows you to find out what the system is for converting free coins into sweepstakes coins and potential prizes.
You should also look at several options to find out what kind of welcome offers they give new customers to find the very best deal. Social media platforms are a great way to find generous promotions which will help you make a decision.
Gameplay experience is also key. Choose a social casino which best fits your needs and tastes, as this will help you get the most out of your social casino experience.
What are the most popular social casino games?
The games you will find at social casinos are more or less the same as those in the traditional kind. Slots are prevalent at most social casinos, though there is usually a selection of table games available such as blackjack, roulette and baccarat.
Payment methods at social casinos
Most social casinos are set up to accept credit card payments for users wishing to purchase gold coins. Depending on the operator, others may offer alternative options, such as PayPal and other popular e-wallets. Stake.us and certain other sites go further in accepting cryptocurrency payments for gamers.
Social casino rewards programs
When deciding which are the best social casinos for you, the quality of bonuses and rewards can be a key factor. Take a close look at the reward structures on offer, particularly if you plan to play regularly.
Regular play and the accumulation of experience can provide more opportunities for rewards. This makes your choice of a platform with generous rewards more important.
Responsible gambling at social casinos
Similar to real money casinos, many casinos provide responsible gambling resources for users to access. There will usually be a toll-free number (such as 1-800-GAMBLER) available for advice and assistance on gambling issues. Some platforms also offer features such as self-exclusion which can help gamers manage their habits.
Social Casinos FAQs
How does a social casino work?
A social casino works in much the same way as a traditional casino. Users sign up and engage in their favorite casino games, such as slots and table games.
In what way does a social casino differ from a traditional casino?
What sets social casinos apart is that instead of staking real cash deposits, users wager free or gold coins.
Are social casinos a good place to make money?
Gamers can make money in certain social casinos which offer sweepstakes coin options.
What are the chances of earning real money playing social casinos?
If users play enough to accumulate enough sweepstakes coins these can often be exchanged for real money, though it is a less direct process than in real money casinos.
Do social casinos offer real money opportunities?
Some social casinos do offer real money opportunities through the sweepstakes system and reward structures, but the primary focus is on entertainment.
What are the best games to play in a social casino?
Slot games are the focus for most social casinos, with many offering unique titles developed by in-house designers. While the range of options may be more limited, table games rare usually available too.
Are social casinos legal?
Social casinos are legal in many jurisdictions which do not allow traditional real money casino operators. Just a handful of states restrict social casino operations, making them far more accessible than traditional options.
