The Ultimate Guide to Developing a Casino Game App Like PlayOJO

Gambling and casinos have long been seen as a medium of entertainment in the UK. And what makes them more exciting and thrilling is their legal and regulated status in the region. However, the game is no longer limited to just casino tables; it has become more accessible through online casino apps like PlayOJO. This app offers an exceptional casino-like experience through its number of slots and a chance of winning real cash. However, PlayOJO is not the only player in the UK’s online casino scene. Technological advancements and people’s growing interest in online casino games have pushed the boundaries of online casino game development in the UK.

The advent of online casino game apps like PlayOJO has brought down the thrill and excitement of real casino games to people’s smartphones. With this, not only are gamblers taking advantage of this technological advancement, but businesses have also started to invest in casino game development. 

And the result? The online gambling industry in the UK is expected to reach $97 billion by the end of 2025. Isn’t it profitable to be a part of this growing industry? So, if you have a better casino game app idea than PlayOJO, it’s the best time to make an entry into the UK’s growing online casino game market. And if you are still wondering how? We will help you through this detailed guide.

In this comprehensive blog post, we will guide you through every single step of the casino game development process. We will cover literally everything you need to know, including the monetization model of such apps, their legality, profitability, required tech stack, core features, cost, and more. So, read on without skipping a single step!

Overview of the Online Casino Game Market in the UK

• The online gambling market in the UK is expected to generate $13.78 billion in revenue in 2024. The revenue is further expected to reach $16.46 billion by 2029 at a CAGR of 3.62%. (Source: Statista)
• The UK’s online gambling market’s ARPU (average revenue per user) is expected to be $0.63k in 2024.  (Source: Statista)
• The number of active online gambling users in the UK is expected to reach 23.9 million by 2029. (Source: Statista)
• The user penetration in the UK’s online gambling market is projected to reach 32.4% by 2024. (Source: Statista)
• According to the UK Gambling Commission, 44% of people in the UK gambled at least once in four weeks. (Source: GamblingIndustryNews)
• The average per-user spending on online gambling in the UK is around £500 per year. (Source: Cision)

What is PlayOJO?

PlayOJO is an online casino game that started in 2017. Unlike many other casinos, PlayOJO does not have any wagering requirements. This means that any winnings from bonuses are yours to keep without needing to bet them multiple times.

Before writing this guide, we used PlayOJO to get an idea of this platform. And we were pretty impressed with its offered games, including slots, blackjack, roulette, and live dealer games. They have over 3,000 games from well-known providers like NetEnt and Microgaming, ensuring that players have plenty of options.

The best feature of PlayOJO we came across was its "money back on every bet" policy. Whether you win or lose, you get a small percentage of your bet back, making playing more rewarding and fun.

Is PlayOJO Casino Legit?

Yes, PlayOJO is a legitimate online casino game licensed by a number of reputable authorities, including 

• Malta Gaming Authority
• UK Gambling Commission
• Danish Gambling Authority
• Swedish Gambling Authority
• Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario

The long list of licenses means the platform follows stringent rules to ensure fair play and safety for players.  Secondly, PlayOJO has a good reputation among players. Many users have shared positive experiences about their time on the platform. They appreciate the fair games and the quick withdrawal process. 

However, like any other online casino platform, there are some mixed reviews. Some players have faced issues with the verification process, but these are usually resolved quickly.

So, one thing is clear here: if you want to create an app like PlayOJO, you need to obtain all the required licenses. 

Is Online Gambling Legal in the UK?

Yes, online gambling is legal in the UK. It is regulated by the Gambling Commission of Great Britain. They manage different types of gambling, such as online gambling, sports betting, casino games, and lotteries. The authority ensures that everything is fair, honest, and transparent. They give licenses to operators who meet these standards.

The Commission can investigate and enforce rules, punish those who don't follow them, and address issues related to problem gambling. To offer their services to people in this region, operators need a license from the UK Gambling Commission for online gambling.

The main laws and regulations for online casino games include:

• The Gambling Act 2005
• The Gambling Commission Licensing Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP)
• The Remote Gambling and Software Technical Standards (RTS)
• The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002
• The National Lottery etc. Act 1993
• The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA)

Is It Profitable to Develop a Casino App Like PlayOJO?

Yes, it is profitable to invest in casino game development, especially in the UK. PlayOJO is a popular casino app with a profitable business model. As discussed above, the online gambling industry is growing rapidly, and mobile apps are a big part of this growth. By investing in casino app development, you can connect with a large audience and have the chance to be a part of the thriving online gambling market in the UK.

However, it’s important to note that developing a successful casino app requires a significant investment. You will need to hire skilled developers, obtain necessary licenses, and ensure your app complies with regulations in different regions.

Despite these challenges, the potential rewards are enough to cover those upfront costs. With the right approach, a casino app can generate significant revenue through a number of monetization models, discussed below. 

How Do Online Casinos Make Money?

Online casinos make money in several ways. The main way is “house edge,” which mean that the casino is more likely to win over time than the players. For example, in a game like roulette, the house edge ensures that the casino makes a profit from the bets placed.

Another way online casinos make money is through fees and charges. They might charge players for making deposits or withdrawals. Additionally, some casinos take a small percentage of the money from poker games, known as the "rake."

Casinos also offer enticing bonuses and promotions to attract players. While these might seem like free money, they often come with conditions that make it hard for players to win big, helping the casino keep more of the money.

Lastly, online casinos make money from players who gamble recklessly. Some people might chase their losses, betting more and more to win back their money. This often leads to bigger losses, which benefits the casino.

Apart from this, the popular monetization models for online casino game apps include

• Freemium and In-app purchases
• Subscription models
• Advertising and sponsorships
• Affiliate marketing
• Crypto casino and blockchain monetization
• Tournament and competitive play
• Virtual currency sell

Things to Keep in Mind Before Starting Casino Game Development

Before you make an app like PlayOJO, it is essential to have a checklist in hand. So, here’s a quick list of things you should consider while developing an online casino game app:

• Legal Regulations: Understand and comply with the gambling laws in the United Kingdom, especially in the location you’re operating from.
• Game Type: Before you invest heavily in your project, decide on the type of casino games you want to develop, such as slots, poker, or blackjack.
• User Interface: Create a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and enjoyable to play.
• Graphics and Sound: Many already available casino games like PlayOJO offer a real casino-like experience. Therefore, it is important to invest in good graphics and sound effects to enhance the gaming experience.
• Monetization Strategy: Plan how you will make money from your game, such as through in-app purchases or ads.

Core Features of an Online Casino Game App

While there are countless features you can integrate into your casino game app, it's essential to focus on the basics to ensure a smooth and enjoyable user experience. 

Here are some core features you should consider:

1. User Registration and Login

This is the first step for any user. Make sure the registration process is simple and secure. Users should be able to sign up using their email, phone number, or social media accounts. A secure login system ensures that user data is protected. The PlayOJO login system is the perfect example of this. 

2. Game Lobby

The game lobby is the main area where users can see all the available games. It should be easy to navigate, with clear categories and search options. Users should be able to find their favorite games quickly and start playing without any hassle.

3. Secure Payment Gateway

A secure payment gateway is the need for any casino app. Users need to feel confident that their financial information is safe. Offer multiple payment options like credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Ensure that all transactions are encrypted and secure.

4. User Profile

Each user should have a profile where they can view their game history, winnings, and other personal information. This helps personalize the user experience and makes the app more engaging.

5. Leaderboards and Achievements

Leaderboards add a competitive element to the game, promoting higher engagement. Users can see how they rank against others and strive to improve their position. Achievements and rewards for reaching certain milestones can also keep users motivated and engaged.

6. In-app Chat

An in-app chat feature allows users to communicate with each other. This can enhance the social aspect of the game, making it more enjoyable. Users can share tips, celebrate wins, and build a community within the app.

7. Push Notifications

Push notifications have proven to be helpful in keeping users informed about new games, promotions, and other updates. However, be mindful not to overdo it, as too many notifications can be annoying.

8. Live Casino

A live casino feature allows users to play with real dealers in real-time. This can make the gaming experience more immersive and exciting. Users can interact with dealers and other players, adding a social element to the game.

9. Multiplayer Mode

Multiplayer mode lets users play against each other. This can make the game more competitive and fun. Users can invite friends to play or join games with other players from around the world.

10. Advanced Analytics

Advanced analytics can help you understand user behavior and preferences. This data can be used to improve the app and offer personalized experiences. You can track metrics like user retention, game popularity, and spending patterns.

Tech Stack to Develop an Online Casino App

Do you know that most PlayOJO sister sites, including Swi͏f͏t͏ Ca͏sino and Lucky Nik͏i, use a similar tech stack? To develop a similar app to the PlayOJO app, you need to understand the technology behind it. 

So, here’s a table highlighting the required tech stack to develop an online casino game: 

How Much Does It Cost to Develop an App Like PlayOJO?

The cost to develop an online casino game platform depends on several factors, including the app's complexity, the features you want, and the team you hire.

You might spend between $10,000 and $60,000 for a basic app with simple features. If you want more advanced features, like real-time updates, social media integration, or in-app purchases, the cost can go up to $150,000. For a highly complex app with cutting-edge features, the price can start at $300,000.

In addition to development costs, you should also consider ongoing expenses like maintenance, updates, and marketing. These can add up over time, so it's essential to budget for them as well.

Key Steps of the Online Casino Game Development Process

Creating a casino game involves several important steps. Each step ensures the game is fun, engaging, and profitable. You can get a top-notch game tailored to your needs with the right team of online casino game developers.

Step 1: Choosing the Game Type

First, decide what type of game you want to create. Options include card games, slot machines, dice games, and more. If you’re unsure which type is most profitable, you can hire a consultant from a casino game development company. Some game types are always popular and profitable, so it’s worth asking about those.

Step 2: Defining Requirements

Next, outline all the requirements for your game. Decide on the animations, whether the game should be 2D or 3D, and any special effects you want. This step also involves setting a timeline and budget for the project.

Step 3: Sketching and Wireframing

At this stage, web designers create sketches and wireframes, including symbols, images, backgrounds, and characters. Once these wireframes are approved, a working prototype is made. This helps you see how your solution will look and function.

Step 4: Game Design

After finalizing the sketches, they are turned into user interface designs. This is also when special effects, game art, motion dynamics, and visual elements are created.

Step 5: Game Development

After your designs get the green light, it’s time for the game developers to step in. This phase is crucial because the success of your game depends on the developers’ expertise. They build the game using various programming languages like Java, JavaScript, HTML5, and Perl. Additionally, they integrate third-party services and payment gateways according to your business needs.

Step 6: Quality Analysis

Once the game is developed, it undergoes thorough testing. This step is essential to identify and fix bugs before launching the game. The testing process involves checking the code quality, loading times, functionality, gameplay, and more.

Step 7: Go Live

The final step is to launch the game. After the release, ongoing support is crucial, including technical assistance, updates, maintenance, and marketing. Improvements are also made based on customer feedback and concerns.

Conclusion

So, that’s it - by this point, you probably have understood the profit potential of investing in a casino game development like PlayOJO. However, it demands a significant upfront investment, planning, and a professional mobile app development team. 

The online gambling market in the UK is constantly expanding, offering a sea of opportunities for businesses looking to invest in it. So, now that you know what it takes to develop an app like PlayOJO, including its process, cost, tech stack, features, and regulations, it’s time to hire the team to bring your app idea to life. 

If that’s the case, Mtoag Technologies can help. We offer impeccable game development services in the UK. With over 14+ years of experience in the domain, we know what would work for your business and what wouldn’t. So, without wasting a second! Contact us to book your free consultation with our expert game developers in the UK. 

FAQs

Is PlayOJO a UK Site? 

Yes, PlayOJO is a UK-based online casino and bingo site. It was launched in the UK in 2017 and is licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, ensuring it operates legally and safely within the UK.

Is Online Gambling Illegal in the UK? 

No, online gambling is not illegal in the UK. It is fully legal as long as the gambling provider holds a license from the UK Gambling Commission. This regulatory body ensures that all gambling activities are conducted fairly and safely.

Is PlayOJO Safe? 

Yes, PlayOJO is considered safe. It is licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority, ensuring it meets strict standards for fairness and security. The site uses encryption to protect user data and has a high safety rating.

How to Retrieve PlayOJO Login Credentials? 

If you forget your PlayOJO login credentials, you can retrieve them by clicking the “Forgot your Password” button on the login page. Follow the instructions to reset your password via email verification. If further assistance is needed, contact their customer support.

What is PlayOJO Bingo? 

PlayOJO Bingo is an online bingo platform within the PlayOJO casino. It offers a variety of bingo games, including exclusive ones like The Masked Singer UK Bingo. The platform emphasizes fairness with no wagering requirements and provides cashback on every game played.

How to Get PlayOJO Free Spins? 

To get free spins on PlayOJO, sign up for a new account and make a minimum deposit of £10. You will receive 50 free spins on the Book of Dead slot. Additional free spins can be claimed through the Kicker section of the site.

How to Claim PlayOJO Kicker Code? 

To claim a PlayOJO Kicker Code, log into your account and navigate to the Kickers section. Choose the offer you want and enter the code during the deposit process if required.