Play’n Go Review

Back in the 1990s, the principal partners of what would become Play’n GO were self-described computer geeks who took work as consultants and sub-contractors. That all changed in 1997 when launching in Växjö, Sweden, with the “play” in the company name derived from Swedish pastimes of bingo, instant win games, and Baccarat.

Coming into iGaming as techies first and marketers second, software was developed to be easily understandable by customers and effortless for operators to integrate. Quickly gaining a reputation for being good to work with, many partnerships were formed that are still strong today.

Industry Standing

Their moniker proved prophetic when smartphones arrived, their first mobile casino platform came out in 2011, way before most others. By this time, Växjö had teamed with Jadestone Group up north in Stockholm, another software developer making a name via the wildly popular Championship Manager series of British football-management simulations. This partnership pushed the enterprise to new heights, receiving praise for a steady stream of innovative and fun diversions.

In May 2018, a deal with Stars Group was signed to provide it’s full suite of games to PokerStars Casino clients, attempting to regain a foothold in the industry.

Game Design

Play’n Go creations almost resemble a “toy machine” displaying happy cartoons and readily recognized themes, action fast and simple. Recently released video-based titles introduced more complicated functionality and bonus features, one goal remaining constant, reliable delivery of enjoyable experiences without hassle.

Game Selection

Building a roster of over 100 titles covering a wide variety of subjects, classic 3 reel, single payline, and 5 reel video slots are highlights. The Swedish tech maestros don’t go for high-profile branding, but every box on the list of expected themes is checked such as Egypt, Ancient Greece, and lucky pots of gold. Their uncomplicated ethos is also brought to a small selection of tables like roulette and Baccarat.

“Dependable” is not often equated with “thrilling”, just look at compatriots at Volvo. However, if not yearning for the kind of excitement that breaking down on an isolated road in an Italian sports car brings, Play’n Go releases are a gateway to predictable entertainment. These free-wheeling Swedes even amped up the excitement level on several by adding linked progressive jackpots offering life-changing cash prizes.

Play’n Go Blackjack

Not possessing a wide range of options, a quartet of online blackjack tables should satisfy most recreational enthusiasts. Similar to its entire roster of games, graphics aren’t exactly “revolutionary”, nevertheless straightforward and slightly better than average.

Play’n Go Blackjack is found at numerous online casinos servicing European countries, holding licenses from Alderney Gambling Control Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, and UK Gambling Commission. All products are tested by independent companies to ensure fairness, with BMM Testlabs and Gaming Labs the main bodies regularly auditing systems.

Classic Blackjack Multihand

Standard 21 extends the opportunity to play up to three hands at a time. Player-friendly rules force dealers to stand on 17 and payout naturals at 3:2. Insurance, which is always the worst bet available, awards 2:1. These rules result in returns of 99.54%, making it quite attractive.

European Blackjack Multihand

All variants look and play identical to Blackjack Multihand, except for European where dealers don’t get second cards until after player splits and doubles have been made. Even with the potential harm of hand-ending dealer 21s, return is still 99.37%, far from the worst possible odds.

Live Dealer Blackjack

Play’n Go live blackjack tables aren’t presently offered, nothing dealt by actual humans.

Play’n Go Practice Casino

All Play’n Go games can be sampled free at their website, including slots and 21. Fun money balances are received and topped up indefinitely if busting out.