Table of Contents
- What Are Independent Slot Sites?
- Why You Should Choose an Independent Slot Site
- Are Independent Slot Sites safe? – Licensing & Security
- Independent Slot Sites vs White Label Sites
- Summary – One of a Kind Experiences at Independent Slot Sites
- Independent Slot Sites FAQ
What Are Independent Slot Sites?
An independent slot site is one that is built on its own exclusive platform. Many of the slot sites on the market are sister sites, meaning the same third-party operator runs them. Why is this so? Third-party platforms offering white-label solutions provide a cheaper and quicker option for new slot sites looking to launch. Some leading ones are Jumpman Gaming, Skill on Net, Aspire Gaming, White Hat Gaming, etc.
Building a new site from the ground up is a lot of work, but these companies offer already-made templates, strong marketing power, and greater liquidity for these new sites. A new operator simply pays for the package and develops its site on the platform. The result is dozens of similar-looking sites with the same layout, the same bonuses, payment methods, etc.
An independent slot site is not part of any such larger network. Instead, they stand alone and have no sister sites. These kinds of gaming sites are not very common, though. Those that exist are usually the result of a gaming company attempting to create a platform that manifests their vision, rather than simply putting out a new slot site for the sake of it.
Why You Should Choose an Independent Slot Site
A standalone slot site has definitely put in more work to establish something different. Here are some notable features of independent slot sites:
Unique Software
Independent slot sites have a unique range of software. As they’re not using any template software from white-label online slot platforms, they decide which games will be offered on the site. The library will often include their own proprietary games. But if you’re looking for popular pokies from leading game developers like NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, Microgaming, Playtech, Big Time Gaming, etc., you’ll also find them here.
They are often selective with their picks and only partner with providers whose offerings align with their vision, so you may not find such a massive collection of slots. Since the numbers aren’t on their side, these sites aim for quality instead. They’ll often have a small but mighty range of games available for online or via mobile play.
Bonuses like No Other
Independent slot sites don’t use anyone’s template, so they offer bespoke welcome bonuses and other promotions. These standalone operators can take liberties with the bonuses they provide, and they sometimes add no deposit or no wagering features.
They offer exciting periodic bonuses, too, and can easily modify or improve their offer to meet players’ demands. This would be difficult for networked brands because a change in the bonus offer would mean overhauling all associated sites. Third-party operators are the ones who curate promotional schemes, so a complaint about the bonus would need to be redirected to the third-party operator.
More Generous Terms
The T&Cs available at a slot site is the greatest indicator of the value you can hope to gain from your gameplay. Many third-party companies impose some very strict bonus terms that apply to all their partner sites, whereas independent slot sites tend to have more relaxed rules. This shows that they care about players and are not just focused on their own profits. When there are favourable terms, you get a more rewarding bonus experience.
Varied Payment Methods
There are not necessarily many payment methods at these sites, but independent slot sites are your best bet at finding a unique banking solution.
Still, you’ll find popular payment methods such as Visa, MasterCard, Paysafecard, and prepaid vouchers. Where new independent sites may only have a few options, established operators will be able to cover all the popular methods available.
Design & Layout
Probably the most underwhelming part of many new online casinos is that they almost all look the same. As several sites run on the same platform, they bring the same cookie-cutter designs with just a few changes to the colour scheme and logo. If you’ve played at one, you’ve played at all.
On the other hand, independent slot sites are often built from the ground up. So they’ve got different designs and layouts. A lot of them use special themes that make the site more memorable. For instance, LeoVegas has an animal theme with a lion-inspired logo. Party Casino is another well-known independent site based on a colourful party theme.
Are Independent Slot Sites safe? – Licensing & Security
The importance of licensing is undisputed, whether at independent slot sites or white-label sites. Third party companies running multiple sites usually have one or more licences which cover the different brands under their umbrella. This is among the reasons why many new casinos and slot sites choose to launch under an already-established operator.
On the other hand, a standalone site will have to acquire a fresh licence. Getting a reputable licence isn’t a walk in the park and this may lead an independent operator to go for cheaper and easier licences like a Curacao Gaming Control Board licence. The problem with such certificates is that they don’t have strict requirements that guarantee fair play and security for players. As such they are not very reliable.
We personally check for sites affiliated with top licensors like the UK Gambling Commission, the Malta Gaming Authority, the Kahnawake Gaming Commission, the Gibraltar Gambling Commission, and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). The best sites on our list are licensed by reliable authorities, so you can rest assured of a safe and secure gaming experience.
Independent Slot Sites vs White Label Sites
Sites that are part of larger third-party platforms take a shorter time to launch. They also offer greater liquidity. So while an independent site may lack the financial capacity to redeem huge wins, large third-party companies can guarantee jackpot-sized payouts.
Standalone sites also don’t have access to the tools and features provided by large network operators. One such tool is ‘self-exclusion’ which allows players to curb problem gambling by excluding players from all related sister sites. You should be able to use GamStop at the best standalone sites, though.
Summary – One of a Kind Experiences at Independent Slot Sites
Any cluster of sites that run on the same platform will have similar bonuses. Sometimes, they are even perfectly identical. You also get the same range of games, and there are no distinct experiences. Where the owners have put in little effort to be original, there’ll be hardly anything memorable.
The greatest benefit of independent slot sites and casinos is that they stand out with bespoke offerings. You may find similar games here as well, but standalone casinos can offer diverse titles, including their own in-house developed games. You can also enjoy bonuses you’ve never seen before on a website that’s got its own identity.
Independent Slot Sites FAQ
What is the best independent slot site?
The best standalone slot site depends on the games you like and the bonuses you prefer. That said, all our recommended standalone operators will offer a memorable experience.
Are independent slot sites better than white-label sites?
There are advantages and disadvantages to playing at an independent slot site, so this depends on your preference. If a unique gaming experience matters most to you, then independent slot sites are the clear winner.
Are independent slot sites safe to play in NZ?
Yes, these sites are safe to play in NZ as long as they are licensed. That is the case with most of the standalone operators we recommend.
Which bonuses can I get at independent slot sites?
Plenty of bonuses are available to claim at these sites. From welcome packages, deposit matches, and free spins to reload offers and cashback, these sites offer some of the most brilliant promos.