Past Problems
Rival Powered initially focused on the US market. Soon after the company was founded, the United States enacted the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), making it illegal for online casinos to accept deposits from US banking institutions. Many casino sites then left the American market, dealing Rival a setback before it had established a presence elsewhere.
After that setback, Rival partnered with established operators to distribute its software to more casinos. It also eased some partnership requirements, leading to business with rogue casinos. Players at some of those sites reported not receiving their winnings. Rival later severed ties with operators it considered unscrupulous and tightened its screening of prospective partners in an effort to restore its reputation.
Rival’s early decisions attracted criticism, but the company later sought to improve its reputation through its software and customer support. It also reports positive responses to its products from casino operators and gambling enthusiasts.
Games
Rival casino games are downloadable rather than available for instant play. This may be inconvenient for some players, though users quoted in the review praised the graphics compared with many instant-play games. Downloads were generally described as quick, which may make the extra setup worthwhile for players who value the presentation.
Interactive Slots
Rival is especially known for interactive slots, or “islots.” These games let players take part in the story, which can change as they progress. The narrative may also vary from one playthrough to the next, adding an element of unpredictability. Some titles include skill-based features that players need to manage to advance.
The catalogue contains more than 25 islot games, with additional titles reportedly in development. Examples include:
- As the Reels Turn
- Hole in Won The Back Nine
- Bowled Over
- Spy Game
- Wild Safari
- Big Cash Win
- Surf Paradise
Traditional Slots
The provider’s standard slot range includes three-reel, five-reel and progressive games. Its highlighted 3-line titles include:
- Almighty Dollar
- Diamond Cherries
- Diamond Dazzle
- Loco 7s
Five-reel examples include:
- Windy Farm
- Thunderbird
- Catsino
- Frogged
- Best Luck
Many casinos using Rival software also feature Progressive Slots. Their jackpots can grow to substantial sums, although a large potential prize does not make a win likely. Titles named in the review include:
- Major Moolah
- Money Magic
- Strike Gold
- Dog Pound
- Atomic Age
- Cleopatra’s Coins
Other Games
Rival’s catalogue also features table games, including:
Video poker games include:
- Aces & Faces
- Deuces & Joker
- Deuces Wild
- Double Joker
There are also less common and specialty games. Examples cited in the review are:
- Keno
- Bingo
- Sudoku
- Gunslinger Gold
- Beach Bums
- Red Dog
- Casino War
- Let it Ride
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Many islot titles are available to play for free.
- Rival is described as having extensive security measures; the fingerprint requirement is one example of its controls for operator administration.
- Downloads were reported to be quick, and the software supports Windows and Mac users.
- Casinos using this software can offer a wide selection of slot and table games.
Cons
- Games are download-only; instant play is unavailable.
- The blackjack range is limited to two options.
Conclusion
Rival Powered’s early years brought setbacks, but the review credits the provider with developing a distinctive catalogue, especially its interactive slots and graphics. Its games take a different approach from standard casino formats, while the review also notes security and fairness measures. The download-only format is a practical drawback to consider alongside its variety of slots, table games and specialty titles. Rival Gaming’s catalogue may be worth exploring when comparing casino software, with access dependent on the casino and the rules that apply where a player is located.
