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DunkOrThree > Sweepstakes Casino Guide > What is a Sweepstakes Casino?

What is a Sweepstakes Casino?

Publish Date: 24.02.2024
Fact checked by: Brendan Heffernan

Sweepstakes casinos are taking the iGaming scene by storm, and for a good reason. Not only do they offer all the thrill and excitement of traditional casinos, but they also eliminate the risk of losing real money.

These innovative online casinos also offer players the chance to redeem various prizes. It’s easy to see why they’re a growing trend. If you’d like to know what sweepstakes are and how they work, this guide has all the details you need.

What are Sweepstakes Casinos and how do sweepstakes work?

You must be wondering, “what is a sweepstakes casino?”. Well, sweepstakes casinos are platforms that let you experience all the fun and excitement of regular online casinos without any risk of losing real money.

They’re exactly the same as what social casino games are, which means you get to play all of the same types of games players love like slots, poker, and blackjack, but instead of using real cash, you’ll be using virtual currencies like Sweeps Coins and Gold Coins.

These games are just as good—and in some cases, even better—than those offered at regular online casinos, since they are complete with realistic graphics, sound effects, and interactive features.

What’s the difference between sweeps coins and gold coins?

Now that you know what a sweepstakes casino is, you’re probably eager to complete your sweepstakes casino verification and get playing. When you visit a sweepstakes casino, you will soon come across the terms “Sweepstakes Coins” and “Gold Coins.” Both are virtual currencies at sweepstakes casinos, but they serve different purposes.

In this segment of our guide, we’ll explore the differences between Sweeps Coins and Gold Coins in more detail. Including how they’re obtained and used within the games. Understanding these differences can help you make the most of your sweepstakes casino experience.

Sweepstakes Coins

You can utilize Sweepstakes Coins to take part in sweepstakes casino games and competitions. These games allow you to exchange sweeps for real-world prizes. The official sweepstakes rules say Sweepstakes Coins may only be acquired through winnings or unpaid promotional offers, deals, and giveaways; they cannot be purchased.

Gold Coins

You can play standard games at sweepstakes casinos using Gold Coins, a virtual currency for social gaming. Standard play games are purely for entertainment and do not allow winnings to be redeemed for prizes.

You can get free Gold Coins from games, bonuses, and giveaways. You can also purchase Gold Coins on the platform using one of the accepted payment methods.

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How to play at sweepstakes casinos

Whether you’re an expert or someone who’s only just learned what a sweepstakes casino is, getting started is quick and easy. Here is a step-by-step process on how to get involved:

  • Visit a sweepstakes casino and sign up for an account
  • Collect your bonus for signing up, which can be used to play games for free
  • Play games on the sweepstakes casino to win more coins
  • If you run out of coins, claim more bonuses or purchase more coins
  • Withdraw any winnings from your account using one of the trusted payment methods

In addition to the Gold Coins obtained through playing games and signing up, sweepstakes casinos offer additional ways to get free coins. These consist of social media giveaways, daily awards, and exclusive promo codes.

For example, if you log into your account each day, share a post on social media, or enter a bonus code, you may be able to win more coins. If you want to get the most out of your gaming experience, it’s critical to keep an eye out for these bankroll-boosting opportunities and seize them when they present themselves.

Sweepstakes casinos are legal in most countries and regions. However, the laws and regulations surrounding them vary depending on the location. In the United States, for example, sweepstakes casinos are mostly legal, but individual states have different laws and regulations regarding their operation. Because of this, it’s important to check the laws and regulations in your specific country or region before participating in sweepstakes casino games.

Sweepstakes casinos vs regular online casinos

Both sweepstakes casinos and regular online casinos are popular options for players. But they have some key differences:

Regular CasinoSocial Casino
Players can win real moneyDon’t allow players to win real money
Players stake real money currencyPlayers stake free virtual credits
May have some social features integrated into the platform, they are primarily focused on the gambling aspect.Often have a more social feel, with features such as leaderboards, chat rooms, and the ability to play with friends.
Strictly licensed and only available in a few US statesRegulated but available in most US states.

So, which type of casino is right for you?

If you are looking to simply have fun and enjoy casino games without risking real money, sweepstakes casinos are always a great option. However, if you are looking to risk real money and experience the thrill of traditional gambling, then you may prefer regular online casinos.

Both types of casinos offer mobile apps and a wide range of games, including slots, table games, and even live dealer games. Therefore, the best one for you ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, such as budget, playing style, and risk tolerance.

It is important to note that since regular casinos are classed as real money gambling websites, they are not as widely available as sweepstakes casinos. Therefore, if you discover that regular casinos aren’t permitted in your state, you may find that sweepstakes casinos are. This makes them the perfect alternative to regular casinos.

Pros and cons of sweepstakes casinos

While sweepstakes casinos can be a fun and free way to enjoy casino games, they also have their pros and cons. We will take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of sweepstakes casinos below, to help you decide whether they are the right choice for you.

Pros

Sweepstakes casinos, also known as social casinos, have several advantages making them an excellent option for players looking to enjoy casino games. One of the best advantages is that no purchase is necessary, and there are many ways to get free coins through bonuses and giveaways.

Additionally, sweepstakes casinos are much more social than regular casinos. With features like leader boards, chat rooms, and competitions, the social aspect of sweepstakes casinos is, without a doubt, one of the biggest advantages.

  • No purchase necessary
  • Claim free bonuses
  • A social experience
  • Legal in the US

Cons

While sweepstakes casinos have many advantages, the findings of our reviews show that they also have some drawbacks. One of the biggest disadvantages is that you can’t win real money from the games. Also, social casinos are not typically licensed, so you may not get the same protections as you would have at regulated online casinos.

  • No real money winnings
  • Fewer regulations as regular casinos

How old do I need to be to play?

The age requirement to play at sweepstakes casinos can vary depending on the location and laws of your country or region. In the United States, for example, individual states have different laws regarding the minimum age to play.

In some states, the minimum age to play at a sweepstakes casino is 18, while in others it is 21. Since gambling laws vary and change regularly, it’s important to check the age limits in your specific state before participating in sweepstakes casino games.

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Can I win real money from sweepstakes casinos?

It’s important to know that sweepstakes casinos are not the same as traditional online casinos, which allow players to wager and win real money. Sweepstakes casinos are designed for entertainment and do not offer the same real-money gambling experience as traditional online casinos.

While you cannot win real cash prizes as you would at a regular online casino, you can redeem Sweepstakes Coins for different rewards and gift cards. So if you’re specifically looking to gamble and win real money, you should consider playing at a traditional online casino that offers this form of gambling rather.

Is sweepstakes gaming gambling?

It is important to note that even though sweepstakes casino games are very similar to real money casino games, they are not actually considered gambling games. This is because no real money is used, only a virtual currency that can be obtained for free.

Can I play poker at sweepstakes casinos?

If you’re a fan of poker, you’ll be pleased to know that you can get your fix at sweepstakes casinos. These online casino platforms are like a playground for casino enthusiasts, where you can play various games, such as slots, poker, and bingo without risking a cent. Not only can you practice and perfect your skills for free, but you can also compete with other players by working your way up the leaderboards.

Since these types of casinos use virtual currency instead of cash, they are legal under U.S. gambling laws. However, some states in the USA, such as Washington, Idaho, Nevada, and New York, have laws prohibiting sweepstakes casinos. Because of this, it’s important to check the laws in your state before playing.

Now you know what a sweepstakes casino is, it’s time to play

Sweepstakes casinos have emerged as a highly sought-after option in the online gaming industry. They provide a unique blend of the traditional casino experience with the added benefit of risk-free gameplay, enabled by the use of virtual currencies such as Sweeps Coins and Gold Coins.

And since there are many ways to get Sweeps Coins for free, you’re not required to make purchases. Whether you’re looking to play slots, table games, or even live dealer games, there’s a little bit of everything. And if you’re a savvy player, you can potentially redeem your Sweeps Coins for various prizes if you play your cards right.

What is a Sweepstakes Casino FAQ

❓How do sweepstakes casinos work?

Any guide to online sweepstakes casinos will highlight that sweepstakes casinos turn the traditional online gaming model on its head, offering a new way to play and win. Rather than asking players to deposit money and place wagers, these platforms shower players with virtual currency, completely free of charge. With these free coins, players can then enter contests, play games, and potentially redeem winnings for cash prizes.

💵 Can I win real money at sweepstakes casinos?

At sweepstakes casinos, players have the opportunity to win real money prizes. However, these prizes are redeemed through virtual currencies, such as sweeps coins or gold coins, rather than being awarded immediately. To turn virtual winnings into actual cash, players must follow the specific redemption process outlined by the sweepstakes casino.

In the United States, sweepstakes casinos have become increasingly popular and can be enjoyed in almost every state. With 49 states giving the green light for players to dive into the world of virtual currency and free contests, the only exception is the state of Washington.

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