Share 
This past week saw a significant development in U.S. online casinos, including a pair of stories regarding sweepstakes casino bans and the launch of a new slots title via Fanatics Casino.
GiddyUp launches in U.S.
The much-anticipated launch of GiddyUp, a parimutuel-powered gaming (PPG) platform now available in 17 states, marks a new era in online casinos. While PPGs offer slot games that may look the same as online slots a player would see at a traditional online casino, the backend odds-making is different.
GiddyUp uses the same betting system as horse racing: parimutuel. Whenever a user plays a spin, they are actually buying a ticket that corresponds to a live horse race. The outcome of the spin is based on the horse’s performance; if the horse wins, the player wins the spin.
Because the backend system is based on real events rather than a standard random number generator, GiddyUp is available in several states where traditional online casinos remain illegal. While the total revenue potential remains to be seen, it could be lucrative if players adopt PPGs as a primary alternative to regulated iGaming.
Sweepstakes lobby fights Minnesota ban
Advocates for the sweepstakes casino industry are pushing back against two bills filed in the Minnesota Legislature that would ban sweepstakes casinos in the state.
The Social Gaming Leadership Alliance (SGLA) published a statement opposing the bills, arguing that a ban would inadvertently benefit illegal offshore operators.
“The bill targets mainstream financial institutions, geolocation providers and know-your-customer services – the very people that currently keep Minnesotans safe while engaging in this form of free and low-cost entertainment,” the SGLA wrote.
“We urge Minnesota lawmakers to study this issue and pursue smart regulation rather than prohibition.”
Sweepstakes platforms have faced increased scrutiny over the past year as they compete for revenue with land-based and online casinos. The industry is currently valued at over $1 billion in the U.S. However, a recent survey from the American Gaming Association revealed that a majority of bettors categorize “sweeps” casinos as gambling.
Indiana bans sweepstakes casinos
The Hoosier State has shut its doors to sweepstakes casinos. This past week, Indiana banned the platforms, following the lead of six other jurisdictions, including New Jersey and New York.
From an online casino perspective, the Indiana ban is viewed by many as a bad omen. Lawmakers have attempted to pass online casino legislation multiple times, but proposed bills have yet to gain the necessary approval from the state House and Senate to reach the governor’s desk.
Fanatics launches exclusive WrestleMania slots
Late last week, the WWE announced the launch of WrestleMania: Road to Gold on Fanatics Casino through an exclusive partnership. The debut comes just weeks before WrestleMania 42, which is scheduled for April 18-19 in Las Vegas.
The game features 20 WWE’s top stars and follows a narrative season where events like Elimination Chamber, Royal Rumble and SummerSlam culminate in the “Showcase of the Immortals”. Road to Gold online slot game is currently available in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
