BetRivers expands footprint to Canada with social gaming launch
Online operator debuts CASINO4FUN to build presence ahead of real-money gaming rollout
Rush Street Interactive (RSI), which operates the BetRivers and PlaySugarHouse online gaming brands in the US, has expanded its presence to Canada through the launch of its social gaming platform, CASINO4FUN.
The free-to-play (F2P) platform, which includes both sportsbook and online casino offerings, is available to all residents of Ontario aged 19 and older via BetRivers.net.
Included are more than 350 online slot and table games, loyalty and bonusing features, as well as single-game and parlay betting.
Ontario legalized single-event online betting and igaming in July, and will allow commercial online operators to enter what is Canada’s largest province by population.
The operator application process is currently underway, with an expected launch by the end of 2021. RSI is among a handful of US-based operators looking to leverage the Canadian opportunity.
“Our expansion into Canada represents an exciting new frontier for RSI and continues our growth across the Americas,” said RSI CEO Richard Schwartz.
“CASINO4FUN offers our community of players the same high level of entertainment and customer service of RSI’s real-money gaming platform, delivered in a casual and free-to-play setting.”
Free-to-play games have proven to be a successful educational and onboarding tool for operators, as they allow users to sample a gamified sports betting or igaming experience without having actual money on the line.
In turn, operators are able to build a database of user information and gaming footprints that can be used as a conversion tool to real-money gaming.
With RSI expecting to launch real-money sports betting and igaming in Ontario via its BetRivers platform in the coming months, it’s using the F2P offering to at once create a pool of potential customers while building its brand in a new market.
“We look forward to providing a truly differentiated gaming experience for players in Ontario that is focused on fostering player trust and enjoyment,” said Schwartz.
Canada marks the third country in which RSI is operational, joining the US and Colombia.