The initial launch of online gaming in New Jersey included a handful of websites that opened for virtual business in late November. Virgin Casino, however, decided to wait, despite being one of the first granted a license by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, and it just launched in January 2014.
Virgin Casino is the first part of a bigger rollout from Virgin Group and online game maker Gamesys. Players can now access more than 30 casino games unique to the brand, such as the partnership's own blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and slot machine games. Community Jackpot is one of the unique games, and it offers a $20,000 jackpot -- $10,000 for the winner, and the other $10,000 for all active players who are also able to claim a share.
While more games are being prepared, online poker is also forthcoming. Gamesys COO Lee Fenton told PokerAtlas, "We're very pleased to offer a poker experience consistent with the Virgin brand: world class, innovative, and player focused. Expect a game as much about the authentic, collegiate roots of poker as it is the evolution of the online experience."
When can players access Virgin Poker? "We're excited to launch Virgin Poker as soon as we feel it is ready and truly represents the ethos of the brand," Fenton said. "We're not ready to give a firm date, but it will be later in the year."
Meanwhile, the online casino is bringing in new customers daily and garnering positive reviews. "The reception to Virgin Casino in New Jersey has been great," Fenton said. "People love the Virgin brand and it is gratifying that we have been able to live up to its potential. The addition of the recent iOS app will see us deliver a differentiated player experience across all platforms."
With years of offering online gaming to UK customers, Gamesys feels that it is more than ready for the US market. Virgin and Gamesys have made sure to develop the latest technology, as well as a great deal of encryption and security to verify the location and age of New Jersey players, as well as safe banking options.
Players can access Virgin Casino within the borders of New Jersey.