Article | 7 minutes read
Why Reality Checks Are Important
As many as 65% of all players use online safety tools, over half of which use them voluntarily. These figures highlight the value of tools like reality checks for responsible gambling. You’ll find such checks offer several key benefits:
How to Set Up Reality Checks
Reality checks are a useful tool for promoting responsible gambling and they are easy to set up. Let’s walk through the process together, using these easy-to-follow steps.
#1. Navigate to Responsible Gambling settings
Locate the “Responsible Gambling”, “Player Protection” or “Gambling Control” section within your online casino account.
#2. Select Reality Checks from the options
Choose the “Reality Checks” option from the available responsible gambling features.
#3. Choose preferred time intervals
Select the desired time interval for your reality check reminders (for example, 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes).
#4. Save your preferences for notifications
Save your new time management settings. A pop-up will confirm your update.
Key Features of Reality Checks
Time-Based Notifications
Reality check timers keep you informed about your gaming sessions. These automated alerts are designed to interrupt gameplay at predetermined intervals to remind you how long you’ve been playing. You can proactively manage your playtime by setting customizable timers, helping you avoid excessive gaming sessions.
| Notification Type | Default Interval | Customization Range | Content Displayed | User Action Required | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session Start | Immediate | Not adjustable | Initial balance Deposit limits Session time limit |
Acknowledge | Set expectations for gambling session |
| Regular Check | 30 minutes | 15-120 minutes | Time elapsed Money wagered Current balance Net position |
Continue/Exit | Core reality check function |
| Extended Play | 60 minutes | 45-180 minutes | Total session time Recommended break Loss/win summary Comparison to average |
Take break/Exit | Prevent excessive play |
| Break Reminder | 2 hours | 1-4 hours | Mandatory break time Cool-down period Session summary Responsible gambling tips |
Take break | Enforce healthy breaks |
| Daily Limit | 4 hours | 2-6 hours | Daily play total Daily spending Pattern analysis Risk level |
End session | Prevent excessive daily play |
Financial Summary Displays
This reality check for gaming provides a breakdown of your spending habits over a specific period. Reviewing these summaries lets you check your spending patterns and make informed decisions about your gambling budget. With this information, you’re better able to take control of your finances and practice responsible gambling.
Pause and Review
The “Pause and Review” feature provides a way for you to take a step back and reflect on your gaming session. By pausing your gameplay, you can review critical details such as the time spent playing and the funds you’ve wagered. It encourages mindful gaming and helps you decide whether to continue or take a break.
What Happens When a Reality Check Is Activated
When reality checks for gaming are triggered, you’ll get a summary of your playtime and be offered some options. Let’s walk through the process together using these easy steps:
-
Pop-Up Notification
A message appears on the screen, summarizing your playtime and spending, allowing you the time to reflect on your gaming activity.
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Gameplay is Temporarily Paused
Your current game is paused, allowing you step back and consider your next move.
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The Session Summary is Displayed
The summary provides a clear overview of your time spent playing, money wagered, and your current balance.
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Option to Continue or Log Out
You can choose whether to continue playing or log out to take a break and return later.
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Reminder Frequency
The reality check reminders will continue to appear at the regular intervals you previously set.
Adjusting Your Reality Check Settings
You can customize your gaming reality check options to suit your needs via your account settings. Let’s take a quick look at your options:
Modify Notification Frequency: To adjust the frequency of your notifications, select “Reality Check” in the “Responsible Gambling” section. Here, you can typically increase or decrease the time interval between reminders. You can tailor the frequency to suit your gaming preferences.
Enable/Disable Feature: There may be times when you’d prefer to temporarily disable reality checks. You can turn the feature on or off in your account settings. It’s important to remember that these checks are designed to promote healthy gaming habits, so use them responsibly.
Automatic Updates: Platform policies may affect the automatic updating of reality check settings. We advise you to review the specific terms and conditions of your preferred online casino to understand how changes to your settings will be implemented.
Best Practices for Using Reality Checks
Set Realistic Intervals: Choose notification intervals that align with your typical playtime habits. Setting overly frequent reminders may disrupt your gaming experience, while infrequent reminders may be less effective.
Review After Each Notification: When a reality check notification appears, take a moment to pause and review your spending and playtime. This brief reflection can help you make informed decisions about continuing or taking a break.
Combine with Other Tools: Use reality checks in conjunction with other responsible gambling tools. By setting limits on your deposits and playing time, you can further control your spending and reduce the risk of excessive gambling.
Regularly Review Gambling Patterns: Take the time to reflect on your gambling habits and identify any potential problem behaviors. You can gain valuable insights into your gaming patterns and make necessary adjustments.
Additional Support
Online gambling reality checks are a useful tool that can help you stay in control of your gaming. However, if you feel you may be developing a gambling problem, help is available. We have created a list of problem gambling help centers for your convenience. In addition, here are some organizations that can provide professional support:
- National Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (US), 0808 8020 133 (UK)
- Gambling Support Websites: GamCare, Gambling Therapy
- Counseling Services: Center for Problem Gambling, American Addiction Centers
- Self-Assessment Tools: GambleAware Self Assessment
Conclusion
Reality checks are a valuable tool for promoting responsible gambling. By setting limits and taking regular breaks, you can maintain control over your gaming sessions and avoid excessive play. Gambling cool-offs are another useful tool you can use.
Remember, gambling should be a form of entertainment, not a source of stress or financial hardship. If you feel that your gaming habits are becoming problematic, don’t hesitate to seek help. By using reality check alerts and implementing responsible gambling strategies, you can enjoy your gaming while maintaining control.
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