Delaware Launches Online Gambling; Just for Fun Until October

August 28, 2013 by Paul Ausick

Casino Entrance
Source: Thinkstock
At 6 a.m. Wednesday morning, the three casinos in the state of Delaware launched free online sites for slot machines, poker, blackjack, and roulette. While today’s launch includes only for-fun gaming, the state is scheduled to launch real-money gambling by the end of October.

The online casino games are being offered by International Game Technology’s (NYSE: IGT) DoubleDown Interactive to anyone who logs-in with a Facebook Inc. (NASDAQ: FB) account. The three casinos offering the games are Dover Downs Hotel & Resort, Harrington Raceway & Casino, and Delaware Park.

Once the games are open for real-money betting only players inside the state of Delaware. Nevada and New Jersey have also legalized real-money gambling for state residents and real-money poker games are already available. Mobile apps for the games are expected to be available next year, and Delaware aims to sign a compact with Nevada that would allow online poker players in both states to sit down at the same tables.

Facebook’s DoubleDown Casino claims to have more than 5 million users for its casino gaming site. State regulators in Delaware are hoping that the free games will attract people to the state’s three casinos, where they can spend real money and boost the state’s tax receipts. State officials also hoped to add $3.75 million to the state’s coffers this year, but the roll-out of the gaming site has been slower. One official said, “We’re not sure how much revenue this is going to produce.

Sponsored: Find a Qualified Financial Advisor

Finding a qualified financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to 3 fiduciary financial advisors in your area in 5 minutes. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. If you’re ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.