“Sweepstakes” as a term and marketing tool, has come a long way from its roots. Over the past few decades, sweepstakes have been used in a variety of engaging efforts amongst industries but perhaps the most impactful and popular sweepstake lies in the realm of casino gaming.
Sweepstakes have been popular over the last century with mail in forms and company led efforts to grow consumer bases, however, with the rise of internet and availability of electronic usage all over the world in the 1990’s, sweepstakes in various form became increasingly more accessible and efficient. Casino sweepstakes, in particular, have gained popularity since their inception and have grown rapidly ever since.
Traditional casinos have always been a widespread favorite in the U.S. but due to their illegalities in all of 50 states and inaccessibility in most states, it’s no wonder why these crafty online standouts have become so popular. There are several websites to choose from, all offering similar games to that of a live casino. Sweepstake casinos offer the use of virtual currency by utilizing their coin system instead of using live currency. Users can access their favorite games in the comfort of their own home without breaking the bank.
2020 and the pandemic market seems to have played a large role in the increased success of sweepstakes gaming with many consumers spending more time at home or looking for alternative ways to socialize and entertain themselves via forms of media. Many of these sites are constantly aiming to improve their social networking aspect with leaderboards and interactions, making it an appealing form of social engagement.
Legalities
The legal landscape surrounding any form of “gambling” is ever evolving. While it is legal to play sweeps casino games in the majority of U.S states, they continue to be an object of scrutiny. Notably in June of 2023, “A U.S. judge approved a $415 million class-action settlement resolving claims that online gaming companies DoubleDown Interactive LLC and International Game Technology PLC violated Washington state gambling laws and consumer protection provisions.” Washington state continues to be the only state in the U.S. that does not allow any form of sweepstake casino play; there are various other states that limit registration with certain sites such as Nevada, Idaho, and Kentucky. Before registering for any platform, users should continue to check the validity in their own state.
Further legal limitations on the state or federal level are sure to remain under review as sweep casinos grow further in popularity, however, they continue to be adaptable to changes amongst the threat of regulation. As long as users continue to enjoy these platforms and they can maintain their technical, non-form of gambling, it is safe to say their success will only compound.
