Social casino: An alternative to real-money online gaming in Florida

Florida’s land-based gambling scene is quite robust, varying from horse racing bets and slot machines. However, the state’s online gaming market fares behind. People who ask how to gamble online in Florida may be disappointed to find out that companies are not allowed to offer their real-money online gaming services in the Sunshine State.

Nevertheless, Floridian gamers have the opportunity to relish in online slots and table games through online social casinos. Social casino platforms provide a legitimate avenue for players to enjoy various casino-style games while still having the opportunity to win real money. 

They operate within a distinct legal framework that sets them apart from traditional online casinos. Players can enjoy traditional casino games like online slots, blackjack, roulette tables, baccarat and more on these platforms.

Sweepstakes casinos are especially popular among Floridians. These social casino sites use sweeps coins to replace real money, rewarding users with tangible prizes in the real world. It makes sweepstakes casinos an excellent alternative to real-money online casinos, especially in light of the current regulation in Florida.

Tips for playing in social casinos

There are several tips that players can apply to optimize their experience playing in social casinos. First, choose games with favorable odds. In sweepstakes casinos, games like blackjack and video poker have a low house edge. They offer better winning chances.

Players should also make use of available promotions and bonuses. Many sweepstakes casino sites offer generous welcome bonuses, loyalty programs, and ongoing promotions to attract more players. These promos can boost players’ winnings.

Opting for high-payout games can also increase players’ potential rewards. Games that fall under these categories are progressive slots, keno, and bingo. A non-progressive slot may yield more frequent wins for players. However, the payouts in progressive slots are bigger. Similarly, people enjoy playing keno and bingo for their substantial rewards.

Players must still exercise responsible management of their sweep coins when playing in sweepstakes casinos. Manage the coins wisely by only wagering a small percentage of the bankroll on each game. It also means that players should avoid betting beyond their means.

Establishing and adhering to a pre-determined budget before delving into social casino gaming is highly advised. Some gaming sites also provide features to protect consumers. For instance, players can lock their accounts if they have hit their spending limits. This cool-down period allows players to rethink their strategy.

One thing to remember is that when selecting a sweepstakes casino site, prioritize those with valid U.S. licenses and adhere to regulations. Additionally, seek platforms with a positive player reputation and an extensive selection of games. 

Ensure the site provides round-the-clock customer support, diverse promotions and bonuses, and a dedicated VIP program catering to high rollers.

Online sports betting may make a comeback

Florida-based sweepstake casino fans who enjoy sports betting may have another reason to smile. After a multi-year break, reports suggest that online sports betting can return soon to Florida. 

The Florida Seminole Gaming Compact briefly launched online sports betting in the state for five weeks before it met a legal hurdle. In 2021, a district court ruled that the compact went against the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). IGRA rules that all state-sanctioned gambling activities must take place 

However, last June, a panel of judges at a federal appellate court unanimously decided to overturn the previous court ruling. According to the new ruling, Florida may enter a 30-year agreement with the Seminole Tribe to control sports betting in the state. This ruling is still subject to a potential appeal at the U.S. Supreme Court. 

Gambling law experts say, barring an appeal, a new agreement to legalize sports betting between the Seminole Tribe and the Florida State may be finalized as early as late August. Sources said the Seminole Tribe is still reviewing the potential of online sports betting in Florida.

Across the U.S., legal sports betting generated a total of $7.5 billion in revenue last year, according to data from the American Gaming Association. The figure represented an impressive 72.7% increase from the year before. 

In 2022, legal sportsbooks processed $93.2 billion in bets, a 61.1% surge from the previous year. Experts predict that when the tribal sports betting handle is included in the report this year, the figure will exceed $100 billion. This development suggests that states that legalize online sports betting will see a significant surge in revenues.