Checking online casino reviews is one of the most crucial steps in evaluating an online casino before deciding to play there—or not. However, not all reviews are genuine. Then, how do you understand if an online casino review is objective? Well, a quick evaluation criterion is looking for whether they’re only positive or entirely negative. The former is suspicious because even the best online casinos have some drawbacks and can be undesirable for certain player types.
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The latter can be doubtful because even the worst online gambling sites have some appeal to specific customers unless they are fraudster sites. Still, it’s better to investigate further, check as many sources as possible, and compare them to have your final verdict. For example, bet365 has one of the largest global revenues from sports betting and online casino games, but some people might not just prefer to play at bet365 for a reason. They might go with the smaller or newer brand because of more attractive bonus deals, better VIP perks, or maybe just because they can’t find their preferred payment method at bet365. All the mentioned factors—and more—impact peoples’ decisions.
You can find two types of casino reviews online. The first category is the reviews on casino review websites and blogs like ours, Askgamblers, and Casino Guru. The second category is user reviews on any rating website, including casino review websites and sites like Trustpilot or Reviews.io. Some websites, like ours, might have affiliate partnerships with the casinos they review. In these cases, you should consider whether the reviewer is impartial. As mentioned, completely positive reviews are suspicious, so even with our partners, we list all the pros and cons to present you with an objective review. We encourage readers to compare other resources before jumping into a new casino adventure.
In this article, we will walk you through our transparent review process so that you can also benefit from it when researching a new casino.
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Latest Casino Reviews
Our website aims to provide you with the latest unbiased casino reviews and keep our pages up-to-date with the newest information. Yes, we work with online casino brands as affiliate partners, but you can rest assured that we don’t lose our impartiality and warn our readers about the risks and drawbacks of reviewed casinos. For example, we usually review new actors in the online casino industry, and most of them hold relatively weaker online casino licences, such as The Curaçao E-Gaming Licensing Authority or The Anjouan Gaming Commission. In our reviews, we emphasise that there are licences with stricter regulations, such as those of the UK Gambling Commission or Malta Gaming Authority. We also note that ‘weaker’ licences are still adequate to protect players and their funds in case of a dispute or applying for a solution to another problem, but the process might work slightly slower.
New companies don’t necessarily operate new casinos. Some new casinos and sportsbooks may be subsidiaries of umbrella companies like Jumpman Gaming Limited, which operates over 100 online casinos and has been in business since 2010. So, a new casino is not equal to amateur or inexperienced operators. Still, it’s a good idea to check the company behind the online casino during the research phase to validate its reputation.
How We Review Casinos in India
Now comes the critical part. The heading says “How We Review,” but this section is also a guide—you can create a checklist if you want—to evaluate online casinos yourself. The primary categories to look at are bonus deals, licences, responsible gambling tools, diversity and quality of the games, payment methods, and customer support responsiveness—although not in that particular order because player priorities may differ.
Let’s get into more detail about how we evaluate those categories, meaning how you should.
Bonuses and Promotions for Indian Players
There are two common clichés to describe bonuses. Some reviewers say they are the ‘cherry on top,’ and some may say they are the ‘spice’ that heat things. Even though they sound banal, they are entirely accurate. Bonuses increase your playtime, enhancing your experience while giving you chances for big wins without risking your money or only a percentage. So you will enjoy playing more rounds, might have larger payouts, and definitely have more entertainment and satisfaction.
A Welcome bonus plays a crucial role in luring new customers to become members. However, offering diverse deals that cater to different audiences, such as sports bettors, slot enthusiasts, or high-rollers, is also essential in building loyalty. A casino may have incredible welcome bonuses, but it risks losing most of its newcomers if it doesn’t have a solid bonus strategy.
- Casino Welcome Bonus: Think of casino welcome bonuses as hooks. You are a fish in the online casino ocean; online casinos are fishers waiting with their hooks cast, and welcome bonuses are the ‘bait’ (not in a negative sense, though) at the tip of the hooks. However, these anglers are mostly not there to consume or hurt you. They put you in another environment with many other fish, food, and treats. They also cautiously care for you because they don’t want to lose you and want you to like your new environment without harming yourself, so they also protect you from getting too much from it. Responsible gambling tools do precisely that, while welcome bonuses are online casinos’ way of making you comfortable and letting you explore your new environment.
These welcome bonuses give some extra funds to experiment with playing as many games as possible to find your favourites. They usually come with various deposit matches. For example, a 100% deposit match bonus means the casino will double your funds to a certain amount because of restrictions, such as deposit and withdrawal limits, as well as wagering requirements. So, it’s critical to check the terms and conditions of these bonuses in detail.
- Free Spins: Online casino enthusiasts probably search for free spins the most—probably among no-deposit and no-wagering bonuses—because slots dominate online casinos; free spins are simply playing slots in demo mode but with a chance to win real money. Most welcome bonus packages include free spins on the side with deposit matches. You can also buy free spins or earn them in tournaments, as loyalty rewards, or for wagering a specific amount of real money. As you probably have guessed, these bonuses are also subject to terms and conditions and other eligibility criteria. Don’t forget to check them!
- Casino Offers and Promotions: Each casino tailors the most efficient promotion strategy for its target audience. While some may rely on gamified loyalty schemes, others depend on the generosity or frequency of their deals. They all have the same goal: ensuring customer loyalty.
Tournaments are a typical example of a promotion. Online casinos organise tournaments and give out several rewards of a massive prize pool. These tournaments are usually restricted to specific games or games from a particular online casino game provider. Standing rules and criteria may vary, such as wagering amounts, wins, jackpots, etc. In some casinos, you collect tokens to buy other rewards, bonuses, and prizes. It goes without saying, but let’s say it anyway: read the terms and conditions.
- Casino VIP Program: The grandeur of the Casinos’ VIP programs is uniquely critical if you are a high-roller. If you are loyal to an online casino, you must expect nothing less than feeling like royalty. The criteria for getting into the VIP lounge also varies depending on the online casino. Gamification is one of the latest trends in the online casino industry. Fundamentally, it all comes down to how much you wager. However, one or two innovative narratives don’t hurt. On the contrary, it’s one of the things we consider attractive if the loyalty program has an innovative levelling-up structure.
The extra benefits also matter. A good VIP program must provide decent advantages, so it would be worth the investment. One of the best things about being a VIP at an online casino is having a personal assistant; uniquely tailored deals for your favourite games are something you should look for—not common, but not that hard to find.
These four are the main bonus categories to evaluate. You can find other types of bonuses and promotions. However, be careful, especially if they sound exceptionally good and excessively generous. Something may be fishy! So, what do you do? Read the terms and conditions.
Selection of Games and Providers
An online casino is only as good as its games. Naturally, the most critical factors to evaluate are the game archive’s size and the quality of the game providers. When you spend some time in the online casino world, you will become familiar with brands like Evolution, NetEnt, Play’n GO, and Pragmatic Play. When you see their titles at an online casino, you may safely presume that they’re safe. They’re mediocre at worst. Also, you will see certain games—without exaggeration—at all online casinos. If you don’t see them. Start suspecting. But they may end up being good online casinos.
- Online Slots Selection: It wouldn’t be an overstatement to say, “Online slots are the building blocks—metaphorically, of course, and digital, obviously—of online casinos.” Especially modern video slots are as much fun to play as contemporary indie video games. They have vibrant visuals, innovative mechanics, and gripping narratives like video games with the extra thrill of playing with real money and a chance to drop big prizes. You should also check features like RTP (Return To Player), volatility, and deposit and win limits when evaluating online slots.
- Poker Rooms: You can play software or live poker at online casinos. Poker rooms are for the latter. While slots are for the masses, poker is a game with a relatively niché casino game. While slots are purely luck-dependant, poker requires more skill. That’s why a casino needs to provide a smooth gaming experience to poker lovers. It wouldn’t be pleasant for players if the casino didn’t have enough bandwidth or other technical insufficiencies. So, while checking whether the casino has your favourite poker type, also check out feedback about the experience before joining a poker room.
- Online Table Games: Table games consist of anything you can play at a table, from card games like baccarat and blackjack to roulette. Poker is also a table game but deserves its bullet point as the second most player-favourite casino game. If you’re into online table games, you will be picky in your online casino choices because most online casinos—especially new ones—primarily focus on slots. There are even online casinos that offer nothing but slots. You should get familiar with brands that create the best online table games and hunt for casinos that offer their titles.
- Live Dealer Games and Live Game Shows: Almost all online casinos offer live dealer games and live game shows. Pragmatic Live and Evolution are two of the industry leaders in these categories. Notably, playing card games against software feels a bit dull. So, the solution is connecting you to tables with live, flesh-and-bone dealers, also bringing you the excitement of a live casino and a more interactive experience. While live dealer games are classic casino games like poker and blackjack, live game shows draw inspiration from board games and TV game shows. A few of the most renowned titles are Monopoly Live, Lightning Storm, Wheel of Fortune, and Snakes and Ladders. All are fascinating games, by the way.
- Game Providers Available: As we mentioned, there will be some names you will recognise soon enough—if you’re new to the scene—when checking for slot games. It will be an assurance to see them. Still, partnering with these providers itself isn’t an automatic green light. You must ensure the casino also scores well in other categories. Winning a huge prize but unable to withdraw it and reach anyone for dispute resolution would be an awful experience. We don’t want you to live that. You don’t want to live that. So, game providers are important, but they sell their games and don’t care if the casino fulfills its obligations to the player.
- Exclusive Games and Branded Tables: Casinos sometimes partner with brands to release their own titles or casino-exclusive versions of the providers’ games. This indicates the casino is trying to provide its players a premium and unique experience. This is a rare find, so it’s not a big deal if the casino doesn’t have a dedicated title. However, it is a big deal when there is an exclusive title. These games typically also offer extra bonuses, rewards, and prizes, and if the casino has a token-based loyalty program, you can get additional tokens by playing them.
Casino Payment Methods
We are far beyond the point that credit or debit card payments are convenient. Even e-wallets have become almost obsolete by cryptocurrency’s introduction to the online casino stage. Some popular payment methods are specifically designed for online casinos in mind, and some just fit in because of their nature, such as online vouchers and cryptocurrencies. There are a few outstanding brands in the online casino payment department. See the list below? We recommend getting an account at least one of the following payment methods because of their convenience. Also, when evaluating online casino payments, remember to check transaction limits and speed.
- UPI: If you’re looking for speed and convenience, UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is your best bet. It’s like the faster, safer, digital equivalent of handing cash to the cashier. UPI has revolutionised how Indians transfer money, allowing instant transactions between bank accounts using virtual payment addresses. So, no more waiting for bank transfers—your funds appear in your casino account instantly, so you can dive straight into the action. Plus, with robust encryption and multi-factor authentication security measures, you can rest assured that your transactions are safe and sound.
- Payz: For players who value privacy and international flexibility, Payz is a solid choice. Almost all casinos worldwide partner with Payz (formerly known as EcoPayz). This e-wallet acts as a buffer between your bank account and the casino, keeping your sensitive financial information private. Its validity at a wide range of international online casinos allows you to use it wherever your gaming adventures take you. Plus, you can hold and manage funds in multiple currencies, making it ideal for globetrotting gamblers.
- Neteller & Skrill: These two are the stalwarts of the online casino payment world. Neteller and Skrill are e-wallets that have been around for years, earning a reputation for reliability and security. They’re widely accepted at almost every online casino like Payz, offering quick deposits and relatively fast withdrawals. Moreover, some casinos offer special bonuses and promotions specifically for players using Neteller or Skrill, giving you an extra incentive to choose these payment providers.
- PhonePe: If you’re already using PhonePe for everyday transactions, why not use it for your casino deposits too? This UPI-based app is incredibly user-friendly, with a clean interface that makes it easy to navigate. It’s also widely accepted at Indian online casinos, and you might even earn cashback or rewards on your deposits. With PhonePe, funding your casino account is as simple as paying for your morning chai.
- MuchBetter: For the modern, mobile-first gamer, MuchBetter is a stylish and secure option. This e-wallet is specifically designed with online gaming in mind, offering seamless transactions and a sleek mobile app. You can even get a prepaid Mastercard linked to your MuchBetter account, allowing you to use your funds for online and offline purchases. And with advanced security features like touch ID and device pairing is an assurance that your money is always protected.
- Trustly: Trustly is all about simplicity and security. It allows direct online casino deposits from your bank account without needing a card or a separate e-wallet. Just select Trustly as your payment method, log in to your bank account to authorise the transaction, and your funds will be instantly transferred. It works as a direct line between your bank and the casino, cutting out the middleman and keeping your card details private.
- Debit/Credit Cards: Sometimes, the classics are the best. Visa and Mastercard are still widely accepted at online casinos—almost all—offering a familiar and convenient way to manage funds. Simply enter your card details, and your deposit will be processed quickly. Credit cards provide the added advantage of allowing you to gamble with borrowed funds, but remember to use this feature responsibly and only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
- Cryptocurrencies: For players who prioritise anonymity and security, cryptocurrencies are becoming increasingly popular. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies offer a decentralised and encrypted method to deposit. Transactions are typically processed instantly, and your personal information is kept private. However, it’s important to be aware of the volatility of cryptocurrencies; their values fluctuate significantly.
Whether you prioritise speed, security, privacy, or convenience, there’s a payment method that perfectly suits your needs and preferences and a casino that partners with it.
Return to Player (RTP) Percentage
RTP is the percentage of all the wagered money a slot or casino game is programmed to pay back to players over time. A 96% RTP means that for every $100 wagered, the game is expected to return $96 to players in winnings. It’s important to remember that this is an average over the long run, not a guarantee of what you’ll win in a single session.
A higher RTP generally means a better chance for players to win over time. When evaluating casinos, look for games with higher RTP percentages, indicating a more player-friendly environment. This information is usually in the game’s rules or help section.
Level of Customer Support
Good customer support is essential for a positive online casino experience, including the availability of support channels (live chat, email, phone), the responsiveness of the support team, and their ability to resolve issues effectively.
You want to know that if you encounter a problem or have a question, you can get help quickly and efficiently. A casino with excellent customer support demonstrates a commitment to player satisfaction and can make your overall experience much smoother.
Mobile App
Many online casinos offer mobile apps for iOS and Android devices, allowing you to play your favourite games on the go. A good mobile app should be user-friendly, reliable, and offer a wide game selection.
Mobile apps provide convenience and flexibility, allowing you to play anytime, anywhere. When evaluating a casino’s mobile app, consider its ease of use, game selection, and overall performance. However, not having an app is usually not a severe drawback for most players because responsive websites work as efficiently as mobile apps.
The Responsible Gambling Tools and Resources
Responsible gambling promotion shows that a casino cares about its players’ well-being. These programs typically include features like deposit limits, loss limits, time-outs, self-exclusion options, and information and links to resources for gambling problems. Responsible gaming features are crucial for promoting safe gambling habits and preventing addiction and other issues associated with excessive gambling.
Casino License
A casino license is a legal requirement for operating an online casino. Reputable casinos are licensed by recognised gambling authorities, such as the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority. These licenses ensure the casino operates fairly and transparently and adheres to strict regulations.
A valid license is a key indicator of a casino’s trustworthiness and reliability. Always check for a casino’s license before signing up and playing. You can usually find this information in the footer of the casino’s website.
Different Kinds of Casinos in India
As our guide is coming to an end, let us investigate different types of casinos providing entertainment to the Indian audience. And, of course, what are the key factors you might need to evaluate for each type.
“Classic” Online Casino
Classic online casinos are all-in-one entertainment hubs—with live casinos, sports betting, virtual games, etc. They want to be your go-to for slots, blackjack, roulette, you name it. And they often throw in a live casino section for good measure. The upside? Massive game variety, the biggest bonuses, and a generally smooth user experience. The potential downside? They might not be the absolute best at any one thing. Their live casino might not be as immersive as a dedicated live casino, and their mobile experience might not be as polished as a dedicated mobile platform.
Purely Live Casino
If you’re all about that real-casino feel, these are your jam. Live casinos focus entirely on live dealer games, bringing the sights and sounds of a casino floor straight to your screen. You get that immersive, interactive experience with real dealers and a bit of a social atmosphere. But remember, the game selection is usually limited to table games and game shows. And if you prefer playing at your own pace, this might not be the best fit.
Crypto Casinos
Actually, there are two types of crypto casinos. This term is used interchangeably for online casinos that accept crypto payments and blockchain-powered online casinos. The common point of these casinos is—you guessed it—deposit and withdrawals with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others. The perks? Increased privacy, faster transactions, and often lower fees. However, if you’re new to crypto, there might be a bit of a learning curve. And sometimes, the game selection isn’t as extensive at blockchain casinos. Also, as mentioned above, the volatility of cryptos may deter some players.
Bitcoin Casinos
Think of these as the specialists of the crypto casino world. They’re all about Bitcoin and nothing else. You get all the advantages of crypto gambling with a laser focus on Bitcoin’s benefits. But this specialisation can also be a limitation, potentially narrowing down your game choices and making it less accessible for those who prefer other cryptocurrencies. Additionally, people sometimes use the term ‘Bitcoin casinos’ to mean crypto and blockchain casinos.
Mobile Casino
While most online casinos offer some form of mobile play, these take it to the next level. They often have dedicated apps or websites that are super optimised for your phone or tablet. The advantage is clear: unmatched convenience. Play anytime, anywhere. But be aware that they might not offer the full range of games or features you’d find on the desktop version.
Ultimately, the best casino type boils down to your gaming style and preferences. “Classic” casinos are your versatile option, live casinos offer immersion, crypto casinos bring privacy and speed, and mobile casinos are all about convenience.
So, now you are equipped with enough knowledge to evaluate online casinos. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t check other reviews. As we stated in this article, to have the most precise conclusion, collecting as much feedback as possible and comparing them is an utmost requirement. May the luck be with you, and please gamble responsibly.
