Sometimes referred to as “social casinos” or “sweep cash casinos”, sweepstakes casinos have become popular in the iGaming sector. Most of the time I read online casino articles I see a reference to them. These types of online casinos have introduced a new way of online playing. They’re yet another alternative in the ever-changing gaming industry – I’m losing count how many important turns the industry makes!

If you’ve just been introduced to the term and are wondering what sweepstakes are, you’re not alone. Although this is a trending topic on the internet, not many people know about social casinos. Stay tuned as I take you through a journey to learn more about how this system differs from traditional online casinos and whether it’s safe for you to play.

What Are Sweepstakes Casinos?

Sweepstakes casinos work similarly to traditional real money platforms. In my research, I discovered the main difference is that they use a different monetary model. New players play for free through a welcome bonus with Gold Coins currency.

So, unlike real money casinos, I wouldn’t be required to place a deposit to access the welcome offer. Some platforms even allow me to continue playing casually through daily bonuses. However, when these bonuses deplete while I would want to play more, I could opt to purchase a Gold Coin package. Some Gold Coin packages include Sweep Coins.

Gold Coins vs Sweep Coins

Gold Coins and Sweep Coins can be termed differently on various sweepstakes platforms, which you can find here. However, they follow the same rules and concepts, as I explain below:

• Gold Coins, also referred to as Game Coins, are for entertainment purposes only. They hold no monetary value. So, once I’ve obtained them through bonuses or packages, I can only use them to play games the casino offers.
• Sweep Coins, on the other hand, are won in games or included in Gold Coin packages. They offer real prizes like – as I’ve found – cash, merchandise, or gift cards.

Do They Operate Legally?

Since sweepstakes casinos do not require real money deposits or wagering, they aren’t classified as gambling platforms in most regions. I believe they use this loophole to their advantage, and even when I’ve purchased a package, I’m not using the Gold Coin in it to play for money but for entertainment. However, by obtaining Sweep Coins, I’ll be entered into a draw and stand a chance to win real-world prizes.

I think they’re popular in parts where crypto gambling is allowed. Avoiding the use of the term “gambling” in their platforms makes them accessible to a large audience. However, this doesn’t mean everyone can play at sweepstakes casinos. Most countries still maintain the legal gambling age of 18 or 21 years. They pay close attention to this through registration processes and the KYC policy.

Games You Can Play at Sweepstakes Casinos

In terms of games, I found the same kind of games you would in a regular casino. They consist of many slots, various tables and lottery games. Although these are accessible without spending real money, I could experience the same gameplay features and quality offered in traditional casinos.

I found that the popular sweepstakes casino games include:

• Slots
• RNG table games
• Live dealer games
• Crash games

Things to Lookout for When Selecting a Sweepstakes Casino

Selecting a sweepstakes casino is similar to choosing a traditional online casino. Safety and security are the most important elements. However, you can also look at:

• The welcome and other promotions offered
• Game Variety
• Check if the casino allows Sweep Coin redemption
• Confirm if the platform is legitimate, and remember that sweepstakes casinos don’t ask for banking details or deposits.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Playing in Sweepstakes Casinos

Of course, playing in sweepstakes casinos isn’t all sweet. There’s some sourness. Take a look at the following advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

• You can use the free-to-play option and enjoy several games before purchasing packages.
• They offer appealing promotions and prizes.
• Most have social interaction features, allowing you to interact with other players.
• Sweepstakes casinos are accessible to most regions, including those where gambling is prohibited.
• Sweep Coins can be converted into cash prizes used in the real world.

Cons:

• There’s limited high-stakes play, which can be less appealing for high rollers.
• Some sweepstakes casinos have limited table games compared to traditional online casinos.

Conclusion

I believe sweepstakes game platforms have introduced a new way of playing casino games by eliminating real money. Players can play for free on these platforms through welcome offers and daily bonuses. However, it’s important I tell you that free play is limited to a specific portion of Gold Coins, which one needs to purchase to continue playing. These gold coins don’t have any real money value as they can only be utilised for gameplay. They can’t be converted to cash.

Sweepstakes casinos force players to eliminate the idea of playing for money and emphasise playing for fun through Gold Coins. At the same time, they contradict this theory through Sweep Coins, which grant you access to possible real money winnings, like on regular gambling platforms.