Sweepstakes platform VGW – owner of LuckyLand Slots, Chumba Casino, and Global Poker – has announced that it is pulling out of New York, and it is a decision that it didn’t take lightly. Beginning on the 2nd of June, New York players will no longer be able to purchase Gold Coins, participate in contests, and the like. The remaining Sweeps Coins in players’ accounts can still be used until July 2, and on August 1, the redemption of Sweeps Coins will no longer be possible.

In a significant move for the online social casino industry, VGW - the powerhouse behind Global Poker, Chumba Casino, and LuckyLand Slots - has announced it is phasing out its sweepstakes operations in New York. While the company will continue offering its free-to-play Gold Coin games, Sweeps Coin functionality is being systematically wound down over the coming months.

Sweeps Coins to be discontinued starting June 2

VGW stated that New York players have already been notified of the decision via email. Beginning June 2, players will no longer be able to acquire Sweeps Coins through any means - including daily logins, contests, Gold Coin purchases, or mail-in entries. However, existing Sweeps Coin balances can still be used for gameplay until July 2.

From July 2, gameplay using Sweeps Coins will be fully disabled, and any new mail-in requests will no longer be processed. By August 1, the ability to redeem any remaining Sweeps Coins for prizes will be permanently discontinued.

A VGW spokesperson emphasized that players in New York will still have access to their favorite games using Gold Coins, which are entirely free-to-play and remain unaffected by the regulatory concerns driving the decision. “We are 100 percent focused on ensuring players are fully informed about the changes, and that this transition is as smooth and seamless as possible,” said the spokesperson.

A decision made in the best interests of all stakeholders

VGW acknowledged the significance of this decision, particularly for long-time players in New York. “We understand this is an adjustment after many years, and some players may be disappointed,” said the spokesperson. “This decision wasn’t taken lightly and was made at this time in the best interests of all our stakeholders.”

This move reflects the company’s ongoing strategy to align with evolving expectations around regulatory compliance. In February, VGW raised its minimum player age from 18 to 21, citing a commitment to safe and responsible gaming. The New York exit follows that same philosophy.

“VGW has operated in North America for more than a decade, creating not only great games, user experiences and entertainment but ensuring this is done safely, responsibly and at the highest level of standards,” the company said.

Regulatory clouds prompt sweeps retreat

VGW is not the first sweeps operator to leave the Empire State. Other major platforms, including High 5 Casino, McLuck, Hello Millions, and Funzpoints, have also exited the market in recent months.

The trend coincides with increased legislative scrutiny. In March, Senator Joseph Addabbo introduced a bill to ban online sweepstakes casinos in New York. While that bill has seen little movement since April 30, and a duplicate Assembly Bill is only just entering committee on May 28, the industry has already begun to act preemptively.

VGW is not a member of the Social and Promotional Games Association, which has advocated for regulatory clarity and held conversations with New York officials. However, the company is part of the newer Social Gaming Leadership Alliance, which shares similar goals around responsible growth and engagement with lawmakers.

“As we’ve previously said, we acknowledge increased interest in our innovative industry that millions of Americans enjoy,” VGW said. “We are committed to respectful engagement on establishing modern, appropriate regulatory structures that benefit players and states alike.”

Social gaming remains viable in New York

More importantly, VGW’s Gold Coin-based social casino gaming will continue to be available to New York players. Unlike Sweeps Coins, which can be redeemed for real-world prizes, Gold Coins are purely for entertainment and fall outside the regulatory gray areas affecting sweepstakes promotions.

Although New York has not yet enacted new laws restricting these platforms, VGW’s decision demonstrates a growing sense of caution and strategic foresight within the industry. For now, the departure of VGW - the largest and most recognized sweepstakes operator in the US - marks a pivotal moment. But one thing is clear: the industry is preparing for change, and VGW is intent on leading the transition with transparency and responsibility.