Social Casinos Operated by Real-Money Gambling Companies

When social gaming first emerged, console and casino gaming developers doubted that the trend would be around for long. Years later, social gaming continues to thrive, and online gambling operators have given into the hype. Companies like International Game Technology, 888 Holdings and Ceasars Entertainment now have launched their own social casino applications.
With over half a million users, Double Down Casino is one of the most popular social gambling applications in the gaming world. Originally, the application was operated by Double Down Interactive, but it quickly caught the eye of International Game Technology (IGT). In 2012, IGT acquired Double Down for the price of $40 million and became the new operator of the Double Down Casino app.
Now, you can find a wide range of IGT-powered games at this social casino. Many of the company's most popular online slots are available at Double Down Casino, including Cleopatra and Monopoly. IGT has also created some Facebook-exclusive titles that are only available to players at Double Down, such as American Idol and House MD.
Jackpot Joy is another real-money gambling operator that has ventured into the world of social gaming. Jackpot Joy's social casino is almost an exact replica of its online gambling website, except with free casino games. Many of the same games are available, so players get a free sneak-peek at slots and casino games that they would normally have to pay to play. There are also some added perks, offering players the chance to take part in bonus mini games as well as the ability to level up to unlock new features.
One of the latest real-money operators to make its debut in the social gaming market is PokerStars. This free-play application operates very similarly to Zynga Poker, as players are provided with free chips with which to play online poker. Texas Hold 'Em isn't the only game available on this application; there is also Pot Limit Omaha, a poker variation that is very popular at online casino sites. The fast-fold Zoom Poker application is also available. Social gaming perks include bonus challenges and daily gifts.
It would seem that real-money casino operators would not want to waste their time creating games that players do not spend money on. However, social gaming has become an increasingly popular trend among these companies. By operating social games, they provide the accessible Facebook audience with free trials of their software. As such, social casinos present fantastic marketing opportunities for real-money operators, in addition to generating a great deal of ad revenue.