Choosing an app in a competitive marketplace can always be a tough decision. The iGaming sector – covering betting and casino gaming – is perhaps one of the most competitive, with scores of major operators offering iGaming apps in North America and globally. All are different, putting a different emphasis on how to attract and retain players.
If you go to iGaming review forums, most recommendations for the best casino apps will focus on areas like bonuses, gaming providers, customer service, and so on. Yet, we wanted to highlight some of the more underrated aspects of iGaming apps that you should look for. Some are specific to that sector, but others may hold a lesson for app design more generally. While elements like bonuses and game providers are important, these features can elevate the experience to a higher level.
Smart Compartmentalization
Casino apps may have 1000s of games, making it potentially overwhelming to find what you are looking for. Great casino apps compartmentalize, breaking games down into genres, sub-genres, and other thematic areas. They can also break games down into different areas – most-played, specific game studios, biggest jackpots, seasonal games (like Christmas-themed slots). Of course, options like search are a no-brainer, but search can also go beyond specific titles, incorporating search by theme, game features, and so on. App providers will take different approaches to this, but the last thing you want is a huge splodge of games on each page.
Correct Licensing
VPNs and the rise of crypto casinos have meant that people can access platforms outside of their normal jurisdiction. It may sound tempting, but you run a veritable minefield if something goes wrong, such as a dispute over payment. Above all, your casino app should be licensed by an official body that covers your area. For example, DraftKings’ betting and gaming app is licensed and regulated in the US, including by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement and equivalent state regulators in the other states where it operates.
Access to Game Demos
This is perhaps the most underrated element on this list. Some casino apps let you play demo games for free, and some don’t. Accessing demos is an excellent way to get a handle on how to play games, hone strategies, and simply check if it fits your style and taste. As mentioned above, some casino apps may host 1000s of games, with new titles added every week, so playing a few rounds with demo money is a risk-free way of testing the waters without risking any of your balance.
Multi-Lingual Games & Support
Around 40 million Americans speak Spanish at home. And while the majority of those are comfortable playing on English-language apps, the experience can be augmented with multilingual support and gaming options. These can vary, from having live dealer games with the croupiers conducting the business in the selected language to options for customer support in your chosen language.
App Store Activity
A casino app is a huge gaming platform. It has plenty of social elements, too. It’s normal that an app hosting so much content will have bugs and glitches, and areas that need improvement. Checking on the app stores to see that the developers are constantly maintaining the app, making improvements, and removing bugs is always recommended. Not only does it tell you that the app is constantly improving, but it also tells you that the casino provider feels a duty of care and pride towards its platform. Of course, this applies to all mobile apps. Updates and improvements are always a good sign.