How the Sweepstakes Casino Model Works
At the core of the sweepstakes casino model, there are two main types of virtual currencies: gold coins and sweeps coins. Gold coins are used for playing games purely for fun, and cannot be redeemed for prizes or be used with the potential of winning real prizes.
Sweeps coins, on the other hand, can be received as part of bonuses, or via on-platform play. Once acquired, sweeps coins can then be used to enter sweepstakes games, which give the potential to win real prizes including cash.
This dual-currency system makes sure that players can enjoy games for both entertainment purposes, while also having the ability to win tangible rewards. By leaning on these virtual currencies, the sweepstakes casino model falls outside of traditional online gambling laws and is thus legal in the overwhelming majority of the United States.
The Legal Framework of Sweeps Casinos
The sweepstakes casino model operates within a legal framework and compliance structure that is different from traditional online gambling. By allowing players the ability to partake in casino-style games using virtual currencies, which can then be used to enter sweepstakes contests, sweepstakes casinos can offer real cash prizes.
Since operators comply with sweepstakes contest laws, instead of regular online gambling laws, they are allowed to operate in all states except Idaho and Washington. Legal compliance relies on strictly adhering to regulations around promotional sweepstakes, including providing a free method of entry and following a “no purchase necessary” operating model. The no-purchase part comes in the fact that players can acquire coins through promotions, playing with those coins to earn more coins and more.
Read more: Are sweepstakes casinos legal?
Gameplay and Available Games
All sweepstakes casinos have a wide range of games available to play, which include online slots, table games, bingo, Keno, video poker, sports betting, and more. Both gold coins and sweeps coins can be used to play all of the above, with sweeps coins winnings producing more sweeps coins which can then be translated into sweepstakes entries.
Just like their real money counterparts, sweepstakes casinos offer games from all of the top iGaming developers in the world. Also, like their real money counterparts, the graphics are constantly evolving to offer the highest quality gaming experience available online today.
You might also be surprised by how similar the gameplay experience is to traditional online casinos, with the only major difference being you’re risking virtual currency instead of cash. While you might not be gambling with real money, while using sweeps coins, you’re giving yourself the chance to win real prizes, including cash vouchers.
Redeeming Sweeps Coins for Real Cash Prizes
Contrary to some misconceptions, the process of redeeming sweeps coins (SC) for real prizes or cash is not complicated. Players at sweepstakes casinos will acquire sweeps coins through promotions or gameplay, and then go through a redemption process once a certain amount of coins threshold is met.
Similar to real money traditional online casinos, there are terms and conditions that apply, such as minimum redemption amounts, play-through requirements, and verification requirements. For players who meet all the terms and conditions, prizes can vary from gift cards, more sweeps coins, and other tangible rewards, including cash.
The redemption process gives players an incentive to engage with games and promotions, as the possibility of winning real prizes is stronger the more they play.
Read more: Can you win real money at sweepstakes casinos?
What Are The Benefits of The Sweepstakes Casino Model?
There are a number of benefits of the sweepstakes casino model compared to the real money casino counterpart, many of which new users might not even realize. The biggest, of course, is that the sweepstakes casino model is available throughout the United States, except Idaho and Washington.
Next, players can enjoy promotional offers that give them sweeps coins for free, which can then be used for the chance to win real prizes without risking real money. In terms of responsible gaming, the sweepstakes casino model has a major advantage as well, as you eliminate the risk of putting your hard-earned money on the line while still being able to enjoy casino games.
Lastly, and most obviously, the sweepstakes casino model gives players the opportunity to win real prizes without risking real money.