The American Gaming Association has launched a new online tool to help players gamble more responsibly. The Play Smart Consumer Hub has been designed with players in mind, encouraging them to make more informed choices as well as form habits that would help and not harm them. The Hub is built with three core principles: the right state of mind, knowledge of the game and betting with deliberation, and acting intentionally by setting a budget, knowing when to stop, and staying aware at all times.

In a significant move to enhance responsible gambling practices across the US, the American Gaming Association has officially launched its new online platform, the Play Smart Consumer Hub. It is designed to empower players with tools and knowledge to make informed gaming choices, and the hub builds on the foundation of AGA's long-standing 'Play Smart from the Start' initiative.

This digital resource is crafted with one core purpose: to help players enjoy gaming while staying in control. It introduces a suite of educational features that reflect AGA's ongoing mission to integrate responsible gaming seamlessly into the overall gaming experience.

Supporting informed and intentional play

According to AGA President and Chief Executive Officer Bill Miller, the new platform is about giving players the confidence to enjoy gaming responsibly. "The AGA is committed to making responsible gaming a seamless part of the player experience," Miller said. "Part of the fun of gaming is that everyone plays differently, but no matter how or where you play, staying in control starts with habits that work for you. The Play Smart Consumer Hub provides players with straightforward, actionable tools to help them stay in control and keep gaming fun."

The messaging is grounded in player research and built around three guiding philosophies:

The right state of mind - Encouraging players to start every session with a clear mindset, set their own personal limits, and play on their own terms.

Knowing the game - Empowering individuals to learn the rules, understand the odds, and wager with intention.

Acting intentionally - Reinforcing the importance of setting budgets, taking breaks, and staying mindful of outcomes, win or lose.

Tools that put players first

The Play Smart Consumer Hub includes several interactive and informative tools to support players in their decision-making:

  • Pre-play checklist: A guided list that encourages players to reflect on their mindset and set practical limits before placing a bet.
  • Responsible Gaming IQ quiz: A short quiz allowing players to assess their current habits and understanding of responsible play.
  • Know the game section: A user-friendly breakdown of odds, house advantage, and key sports betting terms, helping demystify the gaming process.
  • Support and resources: Immediate access to services like the National Problem Gambling Helpline and state-based self-exclusion programs.

Each tool has been tailored to resonate with both novice and seasoned players, offering insights that are accessible, easy to use, and aimed at promoting fun while reducing risk.

A resource for the industry, too

Aside from the consumer features, the hub also includes an Industry Toolkit aimed at gaming operators, suppliers, and stakeholders. This toolkit provides everything from messaging guidelines and visual assets to activation strategies and communication templates. The goal is to help the industry maintain a consistent, proactive approach to responsible gaming.

"Whether an operator or supplier is building a new responsible gaming program or looking to refresh existing efforts, this toolkit makes it easy to deliver consistent, player-first messaging across every customer touchpoint," said Miller.

The Play Smart Consumer Hub is currently live and available at playsmartfromthestart.org. With its combination of practical tools for players and strategic resources for the industry, AGA's new initiative marks a progressive step toward a more responsible, enjoyable, and transparent gaming culture across the nation. GambleSpot also offers free tools to help players make smarter betting decisions - explore them on our Sports Betting Tools page or in the GS Sports mobile app.