This practical guide to Stakes focuses on what actually matters: bonuses, mobile access, and getting paid on time. We have tested the platform from a Norwegian perspective, and here is everything you need to know before you register. The guide is structured so you can start from scratch, but also contains tips for experienced players who want to optimize their bankroll.
Before You Start
- Check that you are of legal gambling age (18 years or older) and that online casino play is permitted in your jurisdiction.
- Make sure your internet connection is stable. A slow connection can cause interrupted game sessions and unnecessary frustration.
- Choose a payment method that suits your needs. Debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers all have different processing times.
- Set a budget for your gambling session — and stick to it. Never chase losses with money you cannot afford to lose.
- Have your identification documents ready. Modern casinos require KYC (Know Your Customer) verification before the first withdrawal.
- Read the bonus terms carefully. Wagering requirements, game contributions, and maximum bet limits vary between offers.
Registration
- Open the casino website in your browser. The platform is a progressive web app (PWA), which means you can launch it from your browser and add it to your home screen like an app.
- Click on the registration button at the top of the page. You will see a short form asking for your name, email address, and password.
- Choose your country and currency. As a Norwegian player, you will likely use EUR or NOK depending on your payment provider.
- Fill in your personal details with your real name and address. This must match your identification documents exactly.
- Create a strong password — at least 12 characters containing uppercase, lowercase, and numbers. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if the option is available.
- Confirm your email address by clicking the link sent to your inbox. Then log in and complete the profile with any additional details required.
- Make your first deposit to activate the welcome bonus. The bonus may auto-credit, but some casinos require a bonus code — check the promotions page.
Bonus Mathematics
Understanding the math behind bonuses is the single most important skill for a casino player. Let us go through a typical welcome bonus scenario step by step. Suppose the offer is a 100 % match bonus up to 1 000 EUR, with a wagering requirement of 30x (the amount you must wager before you can withdraw any winnings). You decide to deposit 500 EUR. Your bonus amount is then 100 % of 500 EUR, which is 500 EUR. Your total balance becomes 1 000 EUR (deposit + bonus). The wagering requirement is calculated on the total amount (deposit + bonus), so you must wager 1 000 EUR × 30 = 30 000 EUR in total. If the game contribution is 100 % for slots and 10 % for table games, you will need to either play 30 000 EUR on slots or 300 000 EUR on blackjack — clearly, slots are the smarter choice.
Now let us add a bit of complexity. Some games have a contribution of 0 %, which means they do not count toward the wagering requirement at all. Always check the list of excluded games. Also, most casinos impose a maximum bet per spin, often around 5 EUR. If you exceed this, the casino may void your bonus. During the wagering, your expected loss depends on the house edge. For a slot with an RTP (Return to Player) of 96 %, the house edge is 4 %. On a turnover of 30 000 EUR, the expected loss is 30 000 EUR × 0,04 = 1 200 EUR. Since the bonus value is only 500 EUR, the math tells us that this specific bonus has a negative expected value if you play the games optimally. However, the bonus still gives you extra playtime and the chance of a lucky hit. If you find a slot with 98 % RTP, the expected loss drops to 30 000 × 0,02 = 600 EUR, which is closer to the bonus value. The key is to always use the formula: turnover × (1 – RTP) = expected loss. Compare this with the bonus amount to decide if the offer is worthwhile.
Money In, Money Out
Deposits are usually instant, but withdrawals take time depending on the method. Below is a typical range for processing times and fees. We recommend using e-wallets like Skrill or Neteller for the fastest payouts, while bank transfers are slower but more traditional.
| Payment method | Deposit processing | Withdrawal processing | Typical fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Debit card (Visa/Mastercard) | Instant | 1–3 business days | 0–2 EUR |
| E-wallet (Skrill, Neteller) | Instant | Within 24 hours | 0–1 EUR |
| Bank transfer | 1–2 business days | 3–5 business days | 1–10 EUR |
| Cryptocurrency | Instant | Within 1 hour | Network fee |
When you request a withdrawal, the casino will first verify your identity if you have not done so already. This is a legal requirement, not a delay tactic. We suggest completing KYC immediately after your first deposit to avoid surprises later.
Safety & Licensing
Stakes operates under a Curacao license, which is common for many international casinos. This license offers a certain level of protection, but it is not as strict as an MGA (Malta Gaming Authority) license or a local Norwegian license. Warning: Winnings from Curacao-licensed casinos may be subject to local income tax in Norway. Unlike casinos licensed by the Norwegian Gambling Authority, there is no automatic withholding, so you are responsible for declaring your winnings. We recommend consulting a tax advisor if you play regularly. The casino uses SSL encryption to protect your data, and all games are audited by third-party testing agencies. You should still enable 2FA if possible, and never share your password. Responsible gambling tools, such as deposit limits and self-exclusion, are available in your account settings.
Troubleshooting
Here are five common scenarios and how to solve them.
- I cannot log in: Check that you are entering the correct email and password. If you have forgotten your password, use the reset link. If the problem persists, clear your browser cookies and try again.
- My withdrawal is taking longer than expected: First, check the status in your account. It may be pending verification. Contact customer support if it exceeds the stated processing time plus 2 business days.
- The bonus is not showing up: Read the terms — some bonuses require a promo code. Contact support with your deposit amount and the bonus name.
- The game is freezing or not loading: Refresh the page and check your internet speed. If the problem continues, try a different browser or clear your cache.
- I cannot enter the mobile site: Make sure you have a stable connection. The PWA works on both iOS and Android. Try adding it to your home screen from the browser menu.
Worth Knowing
The loyalty program rewards regular play with points that can be exchanged for free spins, cash bonuses, or physical merchandise. You earn points based on your wagers; typically, for every 10 EUR wagered on slots, you earn 1 point. Table games and live casino contribute less — often 1 point per 50 EUR wagered. Points accumulate through different tiers, and each tier unlocks better perks. A common structure includes Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond levels. At higher tiers, you get faster withdrawals, personal account managers, and exclusive bonuses. The best way to climb the tiers is to focus on slots with high RTP and low volatility, which ensure a longer playtime and more points.
Common Questions
What is the minimum deposit amount?
The minimum deposit is typically around 10 EUR, but it may vary depending on the payment method you choose. Check the cashier section for the exact amount.
Can I play for free without depositing?
Yes, most games offer a demo mode where you can play with virtual credits. This does not give you real winnings, but it is a great way to learn the rules.
How long does KYC verification take?
In most cases, verification is completed within 24 to 48 hours after you submit your documents. You may be asked for a selfie with your ID, so have that ready.
Are there any restricted countries?
Yes, some countries are excluded due to licensing or legal reasons. The casino lists the restricted territories in its terms and conditions, so check that section.
Can I set limits on my deposits?
Yes, the responsible gaming tools allow you to set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits. You can also take a break from playing for a certain period.
How do I claim a no-deposit bonus if offered?
No-deposit bonuses usually require a bonus code or an opt-in from the promotions page. Once you activate it, the amount is credited automatically.
What happens if I close my browser during a game?
Your progress in the current round is paused, and you can continue when you log back in. However, if you are in the middle of a bonus round, it may be lost.
Closing Thoughts
Stakes provides a solid gaming experience with a wide range of slots, table games, and a live casino. The mobile-optimized PWA works well on the go, and the payment methods cover most Norwegian players. The key to a positive experience is to understand the bonus mathematics and to play responsibly. We hope this guide has given you the practical tools you need to get started. Remember to set your limits and enjoy the games — the most important rule is to have fun.