What Most Bitcoin Casinos Don’t Get Right

Almost all casino sites want to be a cool Bitcoin casino today, but what truly charaterizes a good one. Scratch that, how do we define a truly great one?

Whether it’s displaying bonuses in boring old fiat figures instead of crypto amounts or sticking to old practices of middlemen for transfers instead of going full on direct wallet to wallet, there are tons of things we’ve noticed BTC casinos getting wrong.

Bitcoin casinos have become a popular choice among online gamblers thanks to the anonymity, transparency, and convenience they offer. However, many BTC casinos often miss the mark in several key areas.

In this guide, Crypto Lists explores what many BTC gambling sites don’t get right and how they can improve their offerings to attract more users. Every day, we stumble upon new Bitcoin casino sites and some get it, while others don’t. Hopefully, this guide can help some websites to understand where they can improve. Let’s begin..

Bitcoin casinos should be available worldwide

Many so called “Bitcoin casinos” are not anonymous (see here instead) and are not available in most countries. But they accept the first and most well known cryptocurrency that so many people talk about: BTC. So yes, while they can technically be called a Bitcoin casino, if they’re not available in lots of places they aren’t differentiating themselves enough from the fiat pack.

Regulation and licenses make many choose jurisdictions such as Curacao, since they accept most countries and don’t penalise those bending the rules a little bit to attract more customers, such as allowing VPN use. Since there is still not so much regulation with the four different Curacao-based licenses you might wonder what’s the difference between a Curacao casino that bends the rules or a unregulated crypto casino that allow people to be anonymous and don’t ask for any ID. But the latter is what we classfy as anonymous.

Solution: Enhancing Availability

By enhancing the availability of their services worldwide, they can reach a larger audience and increase their user base.

Why on earth are bonuses displayed in fiat?

We can’t lie, this is a massive thumbs down from us. Most crypto and Bitcoin casinos display bonuses in fiat. Yes, like ‘100% up to €200’ or perhaps ‘150% up to 200 USD’… you get the picture. The problem is, crypto players that hold Bitcoin, alts or stablecoins hate to see their bonuses displayed in fiat currency.

If they were looking for fiat bonuses they’d look elsewhere. By not doing so, it can make players think that it’s a fiat-only casino (see the best here). If you have bonuses in crypto, then it makes tons of sense if you display it in one of them instead. Alternatively, Crypto Lists would love to see odds displayed in both fiat and crypto – making it simple for the users to get the feeling immediately.

Solution: Simply change the wording and images

It’s simple to change the bonus to cryptocurrencies. For example, almost every hybrid casino (fiat and crypto together) accepts US dollars. By simply adding a ‘T’ a site is showing you can use USDT aka Tether, which is one of the major stablecoins around. It’s at least one digital asset that every crypto friendly casino site should accept.

Displaying these amounts in the equivalent crypto can simplify the process and improve the user experience. After all, everyone don’t want to use BTC and this is an easy fix for most brands that currently got it wrong.

Not all sites have wallet-to-wallet transfers

Although we think crypto payment processors like MiFinity (review) have a lot to offer, it’s not quite the same as a proper direct wallet to wallet experience. The joy of crypto is that it cuts out the middleman and looks toward a future without traditional barriers. That means seamless payments across borders, no more exchange rates, a streamlined global finance system. And, with BTC a possible end to inflation too. Utopian? Perhaps. A better option for casinos? Certainly.

Solution: Implement direct payments

This can be improved by utilizing wallet-to-wallet transfers, which are faster and more secure. These transfers also allow for greater privacy, which is one of the main appeals of cryptocurrency gambling.

They don’t have Lightning Network support

Most casinos – even the so-called bitcoin casinos – don’t have support for the amazing solution known as the Lightning Network. It’s a solution built on top of the original Bitcoin blockchain and in a nutshell enables faster and cheaper transactions that are on a par with the Solana and Tron networks of the world.

Solution: Find sites that support it

Check out the list we’ve made of the best bitcoin casinos with Lightning Network functionality.

Only having BTC, ETH, LTC, and USDT

Although the four currencies above are great, and form the foundation of crypto casino payments, there are plenty more currencies that crypto enthusiasts love. By providing support for both deposits and withdrawals in a wider range of coins, the casino only benefits. After all, everyone don’t always hold Bitcoin, Ether or Tether. You might have sold something and received money in BNB, since you got worried about the future of Binance or look for an incredible fast and cheap transfer and would prefer to use Solana.

Casinos that support cryptocurrencies have options – but sure, it’s not easy to make it right from the beginning. They can implement several backend solutions to manage these digital assets. One way is to integrate APIs from cryptocurrency payment facilitators like CoinsPaid. These third parties convert the cryptocurrency into a traditional currency, eliminating the risk of price volatility for the casino.

But as we discussed above, having the means to go direct is best.

Solution: Add more coins

Expanding this range to include other popular coins like SOL, ADA, DOGE, BCH, TRX, XMR, USDC, and SHIB can attract a more diverse user base. In that case casinos might choose to build their own infrastructure to handle cryptocurrency transactions, which requires a good understanding of blockchain technology and cryptography. More coins, more action!

Unclear regulatory information

It’s a new space, and new territory for the iGaming industry. And indeed, like with cryptocurrencies, many like the ‘Wild West’ philosophy of unregulated BTC casinos. It’s borne from the same libertarian idealism as the coins, and it’s understandable. However, until there is more crypto regulation, for instance MICA, local gambling laws will probably continue to confuse visitors from various countries with their own gambling regulation.

Solution: Clear regulatory compliance

Adhering to local online gambling laws and regulations, acquiring necessary licenses, and being transparent about legal status can increase trust and legitimacy. But let’s expand even further:

1. Increased Trust and Credibility: Compliance with regulations and acquiring the necessary licenses demonstrate a commitment to legality and ethical operations. This transparency builds trust among users who are assured of the casino’s legitimacy and fairness.
2. Wider Market Access: Proper licensing allows crypto casinos to operate in various jurisdictions legally, expanding their market reach. This compliance opens doors to a broader audience, including users from regions that strictly regulate online gambling.
3. Enhanced Investor Confidence: Investors and stakeholders are more likely to support a casino that operates within the legal framework. This adherence lowers the risk profile of the business and can attract more investment and partnerships.
4. Reduced Legal Risks: By complying with regulations, crypto casinos minimize the risk of legal penalties, fines, or shutdowns. This stability is crucial for long-term operations and growth.
5. Improved User Protection: Regulatory compliance ensures that casinos adhere to responsible gambling practices, protecting users from potential gambling-related harm and enhancing the overall user experience.
6. Banking and Payment Partnerships: Being a licensed and regulated entity makes it easier for crypto casinos to form partnerships with banks and payment providers, facilitating smoother financial transactions.
7. Market Differentiation: In a crowded market, being a compliant and licensed casino can be a significant differentiator, attracting users who value security and legitimacy.
8. Adaptability to Regulatory Changes: Regular engagement with regulatory bodies keeps casinos ahead in adapting to new laws and standards, ensuring long-term sustainability.

An absence of provably fair games

Provably fair games are a unique feature of Bitcoin casinos, allowing players to verify the fairness of the game’s outcome. These games use advanced cryptographic algorithms to produce random outcomes, ensuring the games cannot be rigged. With the help of components like a server seed, user seed, nonce, and seed pair, players can verify the fairness of their bets.

This system addresses concerns about game manipulation, fostering a more secure and confidence-boosting gaming environment. By increasing the number of these games, casinos can enhance their transparency and trustworthiness.

By neglecting these types of titles, crypto casino sites are missing a big part of why many players opt for this branch of online gambing.

Solution: Add a new section

Some of the best BTC casinos have a dedicated section of in-house provably fair games alongside standard titles from existing studios. And others such as Duck Dice (review) base their whole site around one or two games.

1. Reduced Risk of Manipulation: Since players can personally verify the randomness and fairness of the results, there is a reduced risk of manipulation by the casino, ensuring a fair gaming environment.
2. Enhanced Player Confidence: Knowing that the games are provably fair boosts player confidence in the casino, encouraging them to engage more freely and confidently in gameplay.
3. Attraction of Informed Players: Savvy players who understand the importance of fairness in gambling are more likely to frequent casinos that offer provably fair games, thus attracting a knowledgeable and dedicated user base.
4. Clear Display as a Marketing Tool: Prominently displaying provably fair games on a Bitcoin casino’s platform serves as an effective marketing tool, highlighting the casino’s commitment to fairness and integrity, which can attract more players looking for trustworthy gaming experiences.

Game developers not visible

When you’re on a Bitcoin casino it’s so cool when you can see a list of providers so that you can make smarter decisions and find the kind of games you enjoy. While many do fulfil this ‘obligation’, many skirt on the responsibility.

Solution: Put them on full display

Displaying the software providers used by the casino, either in a list or via search bar, can help players identify their favorite studios before signing up, enhancing user experience and increasing sign-ups.

An inbalance of design aesthetics

A well-designed interface is crucial in attracting and retaining players. An intuitive, visually appealing layout not only enhances user experience but also reflects the casino’s professionalism. But sometimes there can be style over substance, which is not the way to go. A BTC casino site that done it well is XSpin, with a clear design and quick sign-up process – simplifying for the users.

Enhancing user experience through easy navigation, quick loading times, a clean layout, and clear instructions can improve player retention. But if we’re being totally honest, there are plenty of casinos we’ve reviewed that simply aren’t up to scratch. In fact, we’ve even seen some sites that we know haven’t been updated since the early 2010s and even earlier!

Solution: Striking a balance

Employing modern design principles that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional and ensuring the interface is intuitive, making it easy for both new and experienced players to navigate. Plus, incorporating graphics and themes that resonate with the cryptocurrency community. Some of the ways it would help Bitcoin casino sites include:

1. Increased User Engagement: A well-designed, user-friendly interface makes the gaming experience more enjoyable and accessible. This can lead to increased user engagement, as players are more likely to return to a platform that is easy to navigate and aesthetically pleasing.
2. Higher User Retention: Good UX design contributes to user satisfaction, which is crucial for retaining players. A seamless, intuitive experience reduces frustration and encourages players to spend more time and money on the platform.
3. Attracting a Broader Audience: An appealing and straightforward design can attract a wider range of users, including those who may be new to Bitcoin or online gambling. This inclusivity can expand the casino’s user base.
4. Enhanced Brand Image: A well-designed website reflects positively on the brand, conveying professionalism and attention to detail. This can improve the casino’s reputation and help it stand out in a crowded market.
5. Improved Accessibility: Good UX design includes considerations for accessibility, ensuring that the platform is usable by people with various disabilities. This not only broadens the user base but also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity.
6. Effective Communication of Information: A well-thought-out UX design helps in effectively communicating important information to users, such as game rules, bonus terms, and transaction processes, thereby reducing confusion and potential disputes.
7. Optimization for Various Devices: A responsive design ensures that the casino’s website functions smoothly across different devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktops, catering to users’ preferences and habits.

Not offering multilingual support

With a global audience, providing support in multiple languages is essential for inclusivity and better user satisfaction. But time and again, we see casinos launching with only English for the casino as well as the live chat.

Solution: Embracing an Inner-Duolingo

Implementing a multilingual website interface that automatically adjusts based on the user’s location. Providing live chat, email, and telephonic support in various language. Perhaps most importantly, ensuring that the translation is accurate and culturally appropriate. In addition, casinos can always utilize translation tools to help with basic queries.

In safe hands?

While some platforms implement robust security measures, there are many others where security seems more like an afterthought than a cornerstone. This lax approach can leave sensitive user information and financial transactions vulnerable to cyber threats.

The absence of features like two-factor authentication (2FA), advanced encryption protocols, and secure payment gateways can expose players to risks, ranging from identity theft to financial fraud. This oversight not only jeopardizes the players’ trust and safety but also undermines the overall integrity and reliability of the iGaming industry.

Solution: Beefing Things Up

To enhance security in online casinos, especially those dealing with cryptocurrencies, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Implementing advanced SSL encryption and two-factor authentication (2FA) can safeguard user data and accounts.

Regular security audits and the use of secure payment gateways are crucial for detecting vulnerabilities and preventing financial fraud. Additionally, the integration of cold wallet storage for cryptocurrency assets is vital, as it offers enhanced protection against online threats by storing funds offline. Let’s examine in more detail:

1. Enhanced Encryption Technologies: Employing advanced encryption methods like SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption ensures that all data transmitted between the user and the casino is secure and unreadable to unauthorized parties.
2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Implementing 2FA adds an extra layer of security to user accounts, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
3. Regular Security Audits: Conducting frequent and thorough security audits by independent third-party companies can help identify and rectify vulnerabilities in the system.
4. Secure Payment Gateways: Integrating reputable and secure payment gateways for transactions protects both the casino and its users from financial fraud.
5. Continuous Monitoring and Response: Establishing a dedicated team for continuous monitoring of the platform for any suspicious activities can help in quick response and resolution of security threats.
6. User Education: Educating users about safe online practices, such as creating strong passwords and recognizing phishing attempts, can significantly reduce security risks.
7. Compliance with Regulations: Adhering to international standards and regulations for online gambling and cybersecurity can guide casinos in maintaining high security levels.
8. Data Protection Policies: Developing clear and stringent data protection policies ensures that user data is handled responsibly and in compliance with privacy laws

Putting the customer at the center

Responsive and helpful customer service, including 24/7 live chat support, email support, and a comprehensive FAQ section can resolve player issues promptly. Unfortunately, several sites on Crypto Lists have been marked down for lacking this and some even placed on our scam list where we detail places to avoid.

Crypto casino players can sometimes face issues requiring immediate attention, such as transaction delays or gameplay glitches. The absence of prompt customer support can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction. Sometimes, simple communication can be the difference between a happy and unhappy experience on a Bitcoin casino.

Solution: responsive and knowledgable agents

Implementing ’round the clock’ live support with highly trained agents can help to ensure the smooth operation of the casino. By providing timely, knowledgeable, and accessible support, casinos can significantly enhance user satisfaction, build trust, and foster a loyal player base.

Are they acting responsibly?

The anonymity and easy access provided by crypto casinos can lead to an increased risk of gambling addiction among players and cryptocurrencies can sometimes feel like abstract or virtual money, leading players to lose track of their spending.

Solutions:

1. Implement options for players to voluntarily exclude themselves from the casino for a specific period and make the self-exclusion process simple and straightforward.
2. Allow players to set their own deposit, loss, and wager limits to control their spending. Enable easy modification of these limits, with consideration for cooling-off periods.
3. Provide regular reality checks to remind players of the time spent on the site. Plus, issue activity statements to help players track their gambling history and expenditure.
4. Regularly promote responsible gambling messages across the platform and encourage a gambling culture that prioritizes fun and safety over profits.

The incorporation of responsible gambling tools in crypto casinos is essential to mitigate the risks associated with online gambling, particularly in the context of cryptocurrency’s accessibility and anonymity.

By implementing these measures, casinos can provide a safer environment for their users, prevent gambling-related harm, and demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of their players.