PokerStars Casino Bonus & App Review Ratings
The PokerStars Casino app currently exists in three markets as a leading option for those looking to play popular table games and slots. Building off its significant brand recognition as a leading online poker option, PokerStars has now expanded its reach into traditional casino gaming with a standalone option that grades out as a premier option for players in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Michigan.
Live in 3 states
Pokerstars Casino app is live in PA, NJ, MI
App Store Rating
4.1 rating for Apple based devices
Top Bonus
Up to a $600 bonus for new players
Initially, the casino element of the PokerStars Casino app was an add-on to its industry-leading poker experience, offering a more diverse set of ways for users to play and win. In time, however, the platform was built out to run on its own as a rival to other market leaders.
The PokerStars Casino app offers new players optionality in how to claim its bonuses. With $100 free play or a 100% deposit match up to $600, these options provide plenty of incentive to sign up, while the overall user experience offers plenty of reasons to stick around.
Ultimately, players in search of the best overall casino apps are going to focus on four things: overall app experience, gaming selection, acquisition incentives, and retention bonuses. Below, we’ll explore all four components in our full rundown and review of the PokerStars Casino app. By the end, you should be able to walk away with a full understanding of what it’s all about.
PokerStars Casino: Claiming the Best Signup Bonus
There is a core question that every player in search of a casino app will ask themselves: “What am I going to receive when I sign up?” It’s a question that demands a quality answer, and the PokerStars Casino app tries to provide one.
As is the case with any industry, it all comes down to competition. Catching the attention of users and standing out in the crowd is important, and that’s why most of the top options provide a strong signup bonus. For the part of PokerStars, the strength of its new player promo is in its flexibility thanks to two choices.
After completing the registration process, users must make a first deposit. Then, head over the the “My Rewards” menu and hit “Challenges.” This is where the $100 free play and 100% deposit match options exist. There are some pros and cons to each, so let’s dive into it with some further details.
$100 Free Play Bonus
First, let’s talk about the $100 free play bonus.
It’s a somewhat straightforward offer, one that is fairly easy to redeem. After selecting this bonus, a player will need to wager $1 on any game of their choice. Doing so will unlock access to the $100 free play.
Bet $1, get $100 is a rather simplistic concept, and the redemption process isn’t overly difficult to complete. The strength of this bonus is a 100 to 1 return on initial investment that allows prospective players to check out the different games, get a feel for the app, and potentially score a profit in the early going, all while taking on very limited risk.
In terms of drawbacks, the $100 free play bonus doesn’t convey all at once, nor does it all in one form. Rather, it will hit accounts incrementally, spread out over five days, in the form of Spin N Go tickets and instant bonuses. Still, there’s no burdensome playthrough requirements that make it virtually impossible to either redeem or realize the incentive, which isn’t uncommon in terms of bonusing formats.
100% First Deposit Match
The second bonus option with the PokerStars Casino app comes in the form of a full dollar-for-dollar deposit match, one that’s good all the way up to $600. The strength of this option is obvious — it’s all about upside. So, players who are looking to get involved and secure a more substantial bonus will want to go in this direction.
It won’t be required for a user to go in with a $600+ first deposit. A $250 deposit would net a $250 bonus, but those who are looking to take advantage of the full upside will need to deposit at least $600.
Notably, the deposit match option does come with some fine print around playthrough requirements. In other words, it’s not a straight up bonus that can be played one time on any game that becomes immediately available for a withdraw. Instead, players must earn redemption credits that then convey into a bonus. What’s more, the rate of return on redemption credits varies by game, mostly based on return-to-player rates. Simply put, the lower the return-to-player rate, the better the efficiency in terms of securing redemption credits.
As a practical example, a player may receive a redemption point for somewhere between every $3 to $15 wagered on slot games, while most table games require well over $100 wagered to receive redemption points. This means a player will likely have to wager thousands of dollars in order to receive the full extent of deposit match bonus. Additionally, there is a seven-day window to meet the requirement.
While this makes for a laborious process, these caveats are typically standard when it comes to casino app promos.
| PokerStars Casino App | What to Know |
|---|---|
| PokerStars Casino Promo Code | No promo code is required. After completing the registration and deposit process, head to My Rewards and select your offer. |
| Signup bonus option 1 | Bet $1, Get $100 Free Play |
| Signup bonus option 2 | 100% First Deposit Match (Up to $600) |
| Time limitations | Deposit match bonus must be achieved within seven days of deposit |
| Minimum deposit | $10 |
| Wagering requirements | Two redemption credits = $1 (redemption credits are achieved at different rates by game) |
| Total number of game options | Over 250 games |
| States available | New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan |
| Verified on | October 13, 2024 |
PokerStars Casino App Retention Rewards
Gaining the attention of new players is one challenge, while keeping them in the fold is another. Some users will try out a few games before moving on or simply bonus hunt (sign up simply to take advantage of new user promos).
In order to build player loyalty, the PokerStars Casino app backs a quality experience and gaming selection with player retention offers. It needs to do this not only to stave off competitors and prevent jumping around, but it’s also important to keep the playing experience both fresh and unique.
| CHEST | VALUE | REWARD VALUE | TOTAL REWARDS | REWARD POINTS REQUIRED | RAKE REQUIRED | NUMBER OF CHESTS IN TIER |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue | $0.50 | 15.0% | 15.0% | 333 | $ 3.33 | 5 |
| Bronze | $1.50 | 16.0% | 16.0% | 935 | $ 9.35 | 5 |
| Silver | $5.00 | 17.5% | 17.5% | 2850 | $ 28.50 | 7 |
| Gold | $25.00 | 20.0% | 20.0% | 12500 | $ 125.00 | 7 |
| Diamond | $100.00 | 25.0% | 25.0% | 40000 | $ 400.00 | 10 |
| Black | $330.00 | 33.0% | 33.0% | 100000 | $ 1,000.00 | > |
The premise here isn’t entirely unique — the more you play, the more rewards you collect. Called “StarsRewards,” this free to enroll program will track player progress and tally points based on dollars wagered. Once a certain points threshold is met, the user can then turn the points into incentives like free spins and cash. Some competitors roll alternative and unique offerings like merchandise, VIP experiences, dining and hotel discounts into their packages, but PokerStars tends to focus more perks related to gaming.
As is the case with the new player deposit match offer, the ratio of rewards to dollars wagered varies by game, generally better serving those who play more frequently and wager more money.
Players can also check in for specials that include a mix of daily bonuses, money-back offers, and cash prizes. In case you feel we did not cover all the details of the Pokerstars casino program, you can visit the rewards page and dive in.
How to create an account
Setting up a new account is easy and takes just a few moments. Here is how to do it:
- Download the app via the App Store (iOS), Google Play store (Android), or head to the brand website.
- Hit the login in button and select “New to PokerStars? Join Now”
- Enter a username/email and password.
- Provide other required details to finish setup.
- Head to “My Rewards” and “Challenges” to select a signup bonus.
- With an account created, make a first deposit.
In terms of funding the account, PokerStars Casino app doesn’t quite offer the same scope of options as others. PaySafeCard won’t be available, but Visa, MasterCard, Skrill, bank transfers, and PayPal. Deposited funds are typically available instantly.
In terms of withdrawal options, these too are a big more narrow than other apps. Most withdrawal transactions become available within three days. Again, some apps grade out a bit better in this regard, but PokerStars is a reputable app that should inspire confidence in the safety of funds.
States Where the PokerStars Casino App is Legal
As noted above, the PokerStars Casino app is legal and available in three states: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. We track casino revenue for the major brands in these 3 states. Thus far, Pokerstars is lagging far behind BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel casino platforms.
Since the brand first launched as a poker-only option, it has undergone transformative growth, changing with market demand and gaming laws.
Its arrival first came in the New Jersey market back in 2016, initially serving primarily as a poker app. While some poker players focus only on the cards, the natural crossover opportunity to the casino was clear, so the app also featured a select number of traditional games in its fold.
Soon, however, the demand for quality and expansive casino gaming options became so clear, PokerStars beefed up its offerings enough to support a standalone offering of games like blackjack, roulette, and online slots.
Today, the brand operates in all three of its states with three divisions included in the portfolio: poker, casino, and sports betting.
Here’s a quick look at where, when, and how the PokerStars Casino app entered its current markets:
| State | Retail Location | Year Entered |
| New Jersey | Resorts Hotel 1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 | March 2016 |
| Pennsylvania | Mount Airy Casino Resort 312 Woodland Rd, Mt Pocono, PA 18344 | November 2019 |
| Michigan | Odawa Casino 1760 Lears Road, Petoskey, MI 49770 | January 2021 |
The Player Experience
With the bonuses and historical details out of the way, let’s get down to the PokerStars Casino app experience. The spoiler here is that, well, it’s a bit of a mixed bag.
Relative to other options, the app navigation trails that of a DraftKings Casino and FanDuel. Getting into the app, various menus, and ultimately, games is a bit rigid and clunky. It is not to the point of disruption nor is it a reason to avoid the app, but it doesn’t have the same seamless and fluid flow of a competitor like the FanDuel Casino app.
Still, navigation aside, the gaming technology is sharp. Load times are in line with other apps while the visual appeal and game flow stand out.
Once inside the app, players will have direct access to a scrolling set of new and returning users’ bonuses (detailed above), while a “Recently Played” scroll sits prominently on the screen. Assuming recently played games also rank as preferred games, this feature allows for quick access back into the action.
The vertical navigation on the man menu also features one-click access to the game of the week, featured games, and new offerings. A further scroll then provides access to a full offering of various categories, broken up by type (popular slots, huge multipliers, animal slots, jackpot games, table games, and live casino.)
PokerStars Casino App Gaming Options
In all, there are 10 live casino games, 21 table games, two jackpot games, four huge multiplier options, and 225 different slot options in New Jersey. Though fewer in number, live casino games have been increasingly popular. While all games are verified as legitimate, some prefer the human element to a pure video setup, as it mimics that of the traditional in-person game mechanics.
It should be noted that offerings across slot, table, and live dealer games will feature some slight variation. As an example, New Jersey players have 10 live dealer options, while those in Michigan are limited to four.
| Game Type | PokerStars Casino Options |
|---|---|
| Slot games | Wild Play Super Bet, Hypernova Megaways, Jumanju Video Slot, Mercy of the Gods, Build Your Empire, Divine Fortune, Starburst, Gorilla Kingdom |
| Live Dealer | Baccarat, Roulette, Lightning Roulette, Ultimate Texas Hold’Em, Blackjack, Craps, Infinite Blackjack, Auto Roulette |
| Table Games | American Roulette, European Roulette, Atlantic City Blackjack, European Blackjack, Atlantic City Double Deck Blackjack, Craps, First Person Lightning Roulette, Football Studio, Dragon Tiger |
| Jackpot Games | Mercy of the Gods, Divine Fortune |
In terms of the most popular offerings within the portfolio, slots lead the way. A combination of classic retail casino options are available online, while progressive jackpots serve as a go-to option for many players. This includes Divine Fortune, considered by many online casino players as a must-have.
Most table games will require at least a $1 wager per hand or spin, though users can place far much aggressive wagers into $100s or $1000s. On the slots side, spins may range from $0.10 to high-limit thresholds of $10.
Customer Support
The final component to the overall app experience comes down to trust and reliability. Funds are safe and secure, and PokerStars, like competitor apps, are held to strict standards by state regulators. As such, the legitimacy and integrity of the gaming experience holds up to the requirements, and subsequently should create consumer confidence in the product. In other words, there shouldn’t be any anxiety about technological glitches that could spur fraud.
Should questions or concerns arise, the app provides a help section to answer frequently asked questions. Those looking for a live chat option won’t find one, but players can take to Twitter (@StarsSupport) to ask questions or they can send support an email. While not instant, support typically responds to inquiries within an hour.
Players can also give a call to retail locations with questions:
- New Jersey: Resorts Hotel (609-340-6300)
- Pennsylvania: Mount Airy Casino Resort (877-682-4791)
- Michigan: Odawa Casino (877-442-6464)
Our PokerStars Casino App Summary
What you have in PokerStars is a safe, reputable, and solid standalone casino app offering that can hang with big brand competitors like FanDuel and DraftKings. Still, it does have some limitations that keep it from an elite rating.
The top reasons to play include the new player bonus options that provide something for both players looking to make a modest entrance and those seeking significant upside at registration.
Recurring player incentives through StarsRewards dish out cash and free plays across table and slots can spur big winnings, while the app provides a wide range of slot, table, and live games. In short, if there’s a certain genre or gaming type you’re looking for, the app has it.
But context is relative, and as such, it must be noted that the PokerStars Casino app doesn’t quite hold up to the market-leaders in some other key areas.
It does not have the same number of games available as an app like DraftKings, which offers upwards of 600 variations. And, as noted above, the deposit match bonus is difficult to achieve both because of time (seven days from registration) and burdensome playthrough requirements. While almost all brands offer some fine print that make the full realization difficult, the mechanics here are especially difficult.
Speed and optionality in terms of getting money into and out of accounts is important. Most players will be able to find an option that suits them, but the sheer number of possibilities trails that of other apps.
Ultimately, poker players seeking the versatility that allows for the toggle between cards and casino gaming will lean on the app, while others may want to put it into the mix among other options. PokerStars Casino warrants more than a look from those in the market for a standalone app, but it doesn’t ascend to the “must-have” category.
Who owns Pokerstars Casino?
Flutter owns the Pokerstars brand. Yes, the same company that owns FanDuel Casino and Fox Bet, also owns the largest legal online poker brand in the United States.