Unlike real money online casinos, social casinos bring the fun of slots, table games, and live dealer titles for free. Users are never required to make cash purchases at social casino sites because there are plenty of regular promos that give free gold coins.
Ultimate List of Social Casinos
However, not all social casinos are built the same. The number and quality of games, bonuses, and payment options (for optional GC purchases), are different at virtually all sites. Our team of casino experts has created this guide to help you choose the best social casino sites available to US players complete with valuable information about popular games, alternatives, and more.
In this article, we’ll explore the features, games, promos, and other key elements that set different social casinos apart. If you’re looking for a quick rundown, check out the list of the top 10 best social casinos in the United States below.
Gamble USA strives to improve your online gambling experience. We aim to help you play safely, make informed decisions when gambling, and increase your betting knowledge through our guides.
We adhere to strict editorial integrity; our content may contain links to products from our licensed & legal US partners.
Compare USA Social Casinos
Casino Name | Welcome Bonus | Available Games | Best Bonus |
---|---|---|---|
BetRivers.net | 250 VR | 400+ | 100% extra VR with our exclusive code “PLAY200” |
High 5 Casino | 5 SC + 250 GC + 600 Diamonds | 800+ | Refer-a-Friend for 200 GC + 5 SC + 200 Diamonds |
Slotomania | 1,000,000 GC | 160+ | 22,275,000 coins for $1.99 |
House of Fun | 100,000 GC | 100+ | Daily free coins |
Skillz Games | Free Z Coins | 500+ | Refer-a-Friend promo |
Gambino Slots | 100,000 GC + 200 free spins | 130+ | 300-1,000% bonus on the first three purchases |
Stake.us | 10,000 GC + 1 SC | 400+ | A stake of 50,000,000 GC in Daily Races |
Rush Games | 250 VR | 400+ | 100% extra VR with our exclusive code “PLAY200” |
Double Down Casino | 1,000,000 chips | 200+ | Daily Spin the Wheel |
Pulsz | 5,000 GC + 2.3 SC | 700+ | 200% match on the first GC purchase with our exclusive link |
Our casino experts used straightforward criteria when shortlisting the top 10 best social casino sites. Casinos run by reputable operators, sourcing quality games from established i-gaming developers, and sites that offer munificent bonuses were prioritized. Just tap on our banners to safely join your chosen social casino and claim your sign-up bonus.
10 Best Social Casinos List
There are plenty of social casino sites in the market, and the fact that you don’t have to pay to play often misleads players into thinking that there are no bad choices. We shortlisted social casinos that have comprehensive player protection policies complete with self-exclusion and time-out options, sites with hefty bonuses where you can have a true social casino experience:
- BetRivers.net – launched in 2018, famed for its streamlined app and Evolution live dealer games.
- High 5 Casino – launched in 2012, helmed by one of the most respected i-gaming operators, High 5 Games.
- Slotomania – launched in 2011, one of the longest-running “pure” social casinos in the market.
- House of Fun – launched in 2013, offers a variety of free bonuses each day.
- Skillz Games – launched in 2012, a unique site that offers skill-based games and tournaments.
- Gambino Slots – founded in 2015, one of the most popular mobile social casino apps, has an exceptional sign-up offer.
- Stake.us – launched in 2022, one of the fastest-growing sweepstakes casinos with a well-structured free-play segment and plenty of free currency bonuses.
- Rush Games – launched in 2021, ensures its players have ample credits to use with bonuses that refill every 2 hours.
- Double Down Casino – launched in 2010, gives each player a million gold coins upon sign-up.
- Pulsz – founded in 2020, features a comprehensive library of 700+ games from some of the most reputable slot developers.
Note that some players may recognize several names in this list as sweepstakes sites. Besides being counted among the top-rated sweepstakes casinos, sites like Stake, High 5, and Pulsz have social casino elements like free GC bonuses and free-play modes; the reason why they’re on the list of top social casinos is that they offer games and bonuses that are far superior to competing “pure” social casinos.
1. BetRivers Social Casino
BetRivers.net is arguably the best social casino overall because it’s got all the bases covered. From live dealer games and popular slots to free daily credit refills to a comprehensive Rewards Program, it’s a vivid replica of real money casinos, only you won’t need to spend cash to enjoy its benefits.
Even though the casino sprouted in 2018, BetRivers as a brand has been around since 2009, and its reputation has been pristine to this day.
I recommend BetRivers.net to everyone since it doesn’t have any fatal flaws. Players receive extra virtual credits for free every four hours, and the Spin the Wheel is more than likely to give you enough credits for the entire day.
Tap on our banners to claim your free 250 virtual credits, and if you want a headstart, use our promo code PLAY200 to grab 100% extra credits on your first purchase. If you are struggling to choose which games to play check out our Sugarhouse slots recommendations.
2. High 5 Casino
Even as a sweepstakes casino, High 5 towers above contemporary social casinos with a remarkable selection of 800+ slot, table games, and live dealer lobbies, many of which come directly from its parent company High 5 Games.
The feature of High 5 Casino I like the most is its Diamond booster currency. Players receive 600 for free upon sign-up and dozens for free every four hours onward; diamonds can be used to purchase “boosts on demand” or free spins instead of spending real cash.
If you’re not interested in cash prizes, High 5 Casino has an excellent free-play mode where all of its games are available to use with game coins. I mainly recommend this casino to players who want to grab some free money while gaming since High 5 Casino has both a hefty sign-up SC bonus and free SC daily refills. Use our banners to create a free account at High 5 Casino and grab 5 sweeps coins, 250 game coins, and 600 diamonds for free.
3. Slotomania
Slotomania is rightly considered among the best “pure” social casinos for two reasons – it’s been around for over a decade, and its welcome bonus of 1,000,000 GCs is virtually uncontested.
This is one of those casinos where you unlock features and games as you play. This “progressive” system is why Slotomania is as fun as it is; not only will new slots open up as you play starter games, but you’ll also unlock special bonuses, Slotomania’s take on scratchcard games (SlotoCards), and a variety of gifts that award varying amounts of free gold coins.
I recommend Slotomania to players who are looking for a comfortable, stress-free casino experience that doesn’t involve spending real money. On the other hand, I don’t recommend this social casino to players who dislike having to play the same game over and over until new ones become available.
4. House of Fun
House of Fun is very similar to Slotomania in that both are based on the same progression concept – you make a free account, get a small fortune in free gold coins, and play games to unlock new titles.
The main difference between the two is that House of Fun has slightly simpler features and a cleaner lobby screen. I think this is important for beginners because you won’t get flashy animations whenever you make a spin (as frequently) while navigating between bonus functions and games is a lot easier.
I mainly recommend House of Fun to the same types of players who’d sign up for a Slotomania account. Its regular promos are large enough to keep your GC balance in the black, and there are 100+ games to enjoy as you level up. Tap on our banners to join House of Fun and grab your free 100,000 gold coins.
5. Skillz Games
Among dozens of social casinos our casino experts have tested, Skillz Games stands out as the most unique one. Firstly, it’s a mobile-exclusive platform with casino-like elements, but unlike more traditional casinos, it uses Z Coins as tournament tickets and Bonus Cash for wagering.
More importantly, all games at Skillz Games test skills instead of luck. For example, you’ll need a good aim and strategy to outwit your opponents in a match of Pool Payday or a steady hand and decent reflexes to hit your marks in Big Buck Hunter.
Each game is created and powered by independent developers; according to Skillz, more than 20,000+ devs have contributed to the platform, resulting in over 500+ unique titles.
I think gamers who prefer action over the usual aesthetic of casino play will feel right at home at Skillz Games. You can sign up to this platform using our banners and receive your free Z coins while you’re at it.
6. Gambino Slots
Gambino Slots is a big name in the social casino gaming industry, mainly because of its hefty bonuses. From random hourly drops and daily Mega Wheel spins to various social media promotions, this site offers numerous ways for players to earn plenty of G-coins.
Its gamified app for iOS and Android is among the more sophisticated ones, featuring a sleek interface and easy navigation. I was especially thrilled by its VIP program, which isn’t nearly as “exclusive” as VIP schemes in more traditional casinos.
On the downside, its slot library of 130+ games, all of which were designed by Gambino Slots’ in-house team, pales in comparison to more established social casinos like BetRivers.net or Rush Games.
If you’re looking for a social casino app that gives great bonuses regularly and features games with numerous bonus mechanics, Gambino Slots might be worth giving a shot.
7. Stake.us
Hailed as the “king of sweepstakes casinos” by newbies and seasoned players alike, Stake.us is a site where you can play for free or for real cash.
Unlike pure social casinos that award free gold exclusively, Stake gives new players 1 free Stake Cash upon sign-up, which holds real monetary value and can be redeemed for cash at a rate of 1 SC = $1 when the minimum redemption threshold and playthrough requirements have been met.
Players who’re mainly interested in its free-play aspects have plenty of promos to look forward to. Besides the usual daily login rewards, events like Guess the Game, Daily Races, and social media giveaways can net you outstanding amounts of free gold coins.
I also think that there are no reasons to skip free Stake Cash offers since you won’t be putting your own money on the table, though. The casino gives away free Stake Cash every day via daily login bonuses, but you can always get additional currency through mail-in, Stake Cash giveaways, Slot Battles, Originals challenges, and more.
I recommend Stake.us to both casual gamers and those looking to earn some free cash while playing 800+ slots, table games, scratchies, live dealer games, and specialty games. Tap on our banners, use our exclusive links while signing up, and get your 10,000 GC + 1 SC welcome bonus.
8. Rush Games
Rush Games is a relatively new social casino, but it’s already created quite a buzz by partnering with heavy hitters like Pragmatic Play, NetEnt, Evolution, and Playson. It currently offers well over 400+ games, most of which are high-RTP titles with dozens of bonus features.
The variety of games at Rush Games Casino is a huge plus in my book. You can play popular slots, table games, and live games, as well as numerous variations of slingo and bingo games. I also loved its polished website and how generous the Spin the Wheel rewards usually are.
Don’t forget to use our exclusive promo code PLAY200 when signing up to get 100% more credits on your first purchase.
9. Double Down Casino
Double Down Casino has been operating since 2010, and what makes it stand out from younger competitors is a revolving door of new promos that helps the casino attain its freshness.
It’s virtually impossible to run out of gold coins at this social casino since it awards a whopping 1,000,000 GCs for free upon sign-up. Like House of Fun and Slotomania, you unlock slots and new rewards as you play. Even though this grind doesn’t appeal to everyone, you get rewarded with additional free coins every time you level up.
Its selection of games and website aesthetics are different from contemporary “pure” social casinos, but the gist of it is the same. If you liked House of Fun or Slotomania, you will most likely have a good time at Double Down Casino too.
Social Casinos 101: What Are They?
Social casinos are online casinos where players use gold coins to play for fun. Unlike sweepstakes or real money casinos, social casino sites offer exceptionally generous welcome bonuses that are nearly impossible to spend in short periods. Some of the main elements that set social casinos apart from sweepstakes/traditional casinos include:
- Social casinos don’t need a license to operate. They are, however, required by law to ensure that no purchases are necessary, which is why their bonuses are so big.
- “Pure” social casinos never pay out real cash prizes while sweepstakes casinos do. Even pure social casino sites support a variety of banking methods that players can use to top up their gold coin balance.
- Most social casinos feature multiplayer elements, such as tournaments, contests, and giveaway events.
- It’s not uncommon for social casinos to lock most of their features for new players, which open up through gameplay.
In short, social casinos are entertainment-only sites that usually don’t feature game libraries as comprehensive as traditional or sweepstakes casinos. They’re perfect for
- Newcomers to become familiar with casino gaming concepts and features.
- Players who want to demo games for free before playing them at sweepstakes/real money casinos.
- People who want to play for fun.
Do Social Casinos Pay Real Money?
Social casinos that pay cash prizes are called sweepstakes casinos. That’s why I always emphasized the term “pure social casino” when I was referencing sites that don’t pay real money. Casinos like House of Fun, Slotomania, or Double Down Casino are schoolbook examples of the latter.
Sweepstakes casinos, on the other hand, are online casinos with social casino elements, and they do offer real cash prizes. More specifically, players typically receive sweeps coins at sign-up and when purchasing gold coins; SCs usually have a low wagering requirement (rarely over 1x), and upon meeting the redemption threshold (50-100 SCs in most cases), sweeps coins can be converted to cash.
Popularity of Social Casinos Explained
Casinos, and slots in particular, are considerably more popular than they’ve ever been, as attested by Fortune’s report that the industry is making roughly $329 billion annually from casino players alone.
If you’re wondering how social casinos, which don’t pay real money and can’t compete with their land-based counterparts in terms of game quality & quantity, can compete with traditional casinos, the answer is simple – casinos are only legal in 6 U.S. states. Most players don’t feel comfortable gambling at illegal sites and for a good reason.
Looking for alternatives, many casino enthusiasts took to offshore sites, but fortunately, more and more American gamblers now understand that these dodgy sites offer little to no protection from data theft and scams.
That’s where social casinos come into play. They don’t need a license to operate (but are required by law to give large no deposit bonuses) and they’re available in almost all US states. They emulate real casino experiences with real slot games that can be played for free.
Alternative Free Casino List with Sweeps Cash Prizes
While playing slots with gold coins can be fun, many players simply don’t get the rush they’d otherwise have when real money is at stake. Sweepstakes casinos are in the golden middle, allowing you to choose when to play for free, and wager sweeps coins that can be later redeemed for real money.
Below is the list of the most popular US sweepstakes sites complete with features that help them stand out. Take your time to compare these sites and use our banners to sign up:
- WOW Vegas: offers 800+ slot games, a 5 SC + 8,500 WOW Coins sign-up bonus, and allows players to redeem 100 SCs for $100.
- Fortune Coins: has a game library of 200+ slots, video poker, specialty, and fish games. Gives new players 360,000 gold coins and 1,200 Fortune Coins. Fortune Coins are redeemable at a rate of 100 FC to $1, with a minimum redemption limit of 5,000 FC ($50).
- Sweeptastic: has one of the most comprehensive game libraries filled with 1,000+ slots from 9+ reputable i-gaming providers. Awards a total of 27,777 Lucky Coins and 2 SCs after account verification and allows players to redeem a minimum of 100 SCs for $100 at a rate of 1 SC for $1.
- Vegas Gems: uses a unique Gem currency, which can be converted at a rate of 1 gem for $1. Gifts up to 1,000 free gems upon registration and has 100+ games from Pragmatic Play, BGaming, and 1spin4win.
- Chanced: a brand-new sweepstakes casino with 500+ popular games and proprietary slots. Awards 2 free SCs after registration and excellent deposit match bonuses.
- NoLimitCoins Casino: remarkably popular due to its hefty no deposit bonuses. New players receive 100,000 gold coins and 1,000 sweeps coins after signing up, the latter is redeemable at a rate of 100 SC for $1.
- Funrize: another fresh sweepstakes site famed for its low minimum redemption limit of $25. New players receive 125,000 tournament coins (function like gold coins) while players using our links can grab an exclusive discount awarding 700,000 tournament coins and 3,000 promotional entries. PEs can be redeemed at a rate of 100 PE for $1.
- TaoFortune: similar to Funrize, generously awards 88,000 Tao Coins (GCs) on sign-up and offers a host of daily offers that give free Secret Coins (sweeps). Secret Coins can be redeemed for real cash at a rate of 100 SCs for $1.
- Bingoport: a bingo-exclusive sweepstakes casino with 12+ games. Awards 1,500 Port Points after account verification, which can be redeemed at a rate of 12,000 PP for $10.
- LuckyBird.io: stands out among other sweepstakes sites with 20+ exclusive games and crypto-redeemable sweeps at a rate of 1:1. Gifts 0.2100 SC and 1000.0000 GCs after account verification.
- Loyal Royal Casino: over a dozen popular slots and video poker games coupled with a good welcome bonus of 2,000 Loyal Coins and 2.5 Royal Rubies made Loyal Royal Casino a popular choice for US players. Offers a variety of reload bonuses and allows players to redeem Royal Rubies for cash at a rate of 1 RR = $1.
- Scrooge Casino: one of the best sweepstakes sites for table game enthusiasts. Has a library of 70+ slots and 110+ dice, cards, poker, keno, fish, and arcade games. Offers a remarkably munificent welcome bonus of 150,000 GCs + 250 STs. Scrooge Tokens (STs) can be redeemed for real money at a rate of 100 ST = $1.
- SweepSlots: has dozens of popular slots and table games powered by Evoplay, Jini Studios, and other popular i-gaming developers. You can claim 10,000 GCs and 1 SC for free upon signup, and use our exclusive promo code GUSA to grab an additional 37,000 GCs and 3,000 SCs for $20. Sweeps coins are redeemable for money at a rate of 1 SC = $1.
Best Social Casino Games
From slots and table games to fish games, jackpot slots, and live dealer games, there are many different types that you’ll encounter in casinos like BetRivers.net or Rush Games. These sites are modeled as replicas of real money casinos and source games from developers that power sweepstakes and online casinos (NetNet, Pragmatic Play, etc.).
Pure social casinos, on the other hand, usually feature games that were developed by their in-house teams. This makes learning more about their specs (RTP, paylines, max win, for example) a bit more difficult, but they can be just as fun as popular slots.
Social casinos also tend to offer a broader variety of fish and arcade games. Minigames are also popular.
There are many social casino sites that feature unique games based on skill. Skillz Games is a schoolbook example of such a casino, offering unique games like pool or big game hunting that completely eliminate the risk factor and introduce a new competitive element on multiplayer platforms.
Are The Listed Social Casinos Worth Trying?
We shortlisted casinos where no real cash purchases are necessary due to big sign-up and daily bonuses, a good variety of games, and simple player interfaces. In my humble opinion, they are worth trying because you’ll never have to put real money on the line, and you’ll get to play as much as you want.
Social Casino Gaming Controversies
Social gaming and social casinos haven’t been regulated as meticulously as sweepstakes and online casinos because legislators find it difficult to define which sites are “gambling sites” and which ones are for entertainment purposes only.
A famous court battle between Zynga and Washington gamblers occurred in 2012, resulting in a $12,000,000 settlement being paid to WA players. As the story goes, Zynga apps didn’t make self-exclusion options available (or transparent enough) while the daily bonuses were too small, so WA players felt the need to make numerous microtransactions, leading to “significant financial harm.”
In 2020, Big Fish Games was faced with two class-action lawsuits with similar content. Plaintiffs argued that they were misled into thinking Big Fish Games apps were free-to-play, arguing that BFG violated Washington laws with its almost “mandatory” in-app coin purchases.
Social casinos must ensure that players don’t need to purchase chips or credits to play; purchasable coin packs and bundles can be included, but it’s illegal for social casino sites to base the entire scheme on the requirements to purchase them.
Play Responsibly at the Listed Social Casinos
The main draw of social casinos is the ability to play games and replicas of authentic slots without wagering real-life money. No matter how large the bonuses offered by social casino sites are, you may still be tempted to purchase more, especially if you don’t want to wait an entire day for your daily coin refill.
Even social casino games can be addictive, and many players don’t feel like they’re spending much since the cost-to-value ratio of coin packs is substantially higher than at sweepstakes or online casinos. For example, you’ll be offered millions of coins for $1.99, which can be burned through quickly as long as you’re thinking that you’re not wasting real money and using max bet settings.
We warmly recommend playing responsibly at social casino sites listed above and encourage you to claim bonuses regularly to keep your account balance afloat.