Game providers: what to know
Why the studio matters, and why the same game can pay differently from one casino to the next.
What a game provider does
Casinos don’t make their own games. They rent them from studios like the ones above, which design the games, have them tested and keep them running. A casino with games from many studios has more choice; a casino with the studios you like is the one to pick.
RTP versions
Studios offer several RTP versions of many slots; the casino chooses which one you play.
Testing
Licensed studios have their random number generators checked by independent labs.
Live studios
Live dealer games come from real studios, streamed to the casino.
Is it legal, and is it taxed?
Irish players can play at licensed online casinos. The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 set up the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, which is taking over licensing; until its licences cover online casinos fully, most sites that accept Irish players are licensed in Malta or the UK. We name the licence on every casino we list.
No tax on winnings. Gambling winnings are not taxed for players in Ireland today, though the rules can change.
Staying in control
Most casinos let you set limits and close your account for a while; each review lists the tools a casino has. Set them up before you need them.
- Set a deposit limit when you open the account, if the casino has one
- Decide how long you will play before you start
- Never chase a loss with a bigger deposit
- Free, confidential help: the national helpline on 1800 936 725, every day. More ways to stay in control
Questions about game providers
What is a game provider?
The studio that makes a casino game. Casinos rent games from many providers, so the same slot can be found at dozens of casinos.
Does the provider affect my chances?
The game decides the odds, and the provider sets its RTP versions. Licensed providers have their games tested by independent labs.
Why does the same slot pay differently at two casinos?
Many providers offer several RTP versions of a slot, and each casino picks one. Check the RTP in the game’s info screen.