Atlantic City casinos offer numerous loyalty programs designed to reward returning visitors and locals alike. The programs repay guests with benefits ranging from complimentary rooms and dining to exclusive access to events and services. For locals, membership in these programs can significantly add to their casino experience and offer tangible rewards.
These programs also allow residents to experience Atlantic City's other facets beyond gaming, such as entertainment and dining. Residents are permitted by loyalty programs to become a part of a group that comprises individuals who share the same interests and experience as them.
Casino loyalty programs tend to reward players with points for every dollar spent on games. Players at some sites earn five points for every dollar wagered on slots, three points for table games and roulette, and one point for blackjack. The points can be converted into site credits or used to move through loyalty tiers, where more significant rewards are available.
Online variants, like the DraftKings Casino, can also offer promo codes and bonuses that can help newcomers get off on the right foot. Land-based casinos are Atlantic City's bread and butter, but online variants are introducing convenience that is all but unparalleled. This is not to say that traditional casinos are going the way of the dinosaurs, but they do require more effort to appreciate than online casinos. These give locals the opportunity to try and have their leisure time at their convenience.
The rate at which points are earned will also vary significantly from game to game and casino to casino, so locals should try to play games that will maximize their playing style the most. Some casinos also offer bonus points for playing during off-peak hours or participating in promotional activities.
Loyalty clubs generally have multi-level systems where the players ascend the levels as they gain points. The higher the level, the more perks there are, such as free rooms, valet parking, and priority service. For instance, some casinos will include levels like Blue, Gold, Platinum, Black, and Chairman, with benefits increasing with each level.
As residents progress through these tiers, they can also enjoy personalized service, like personal account managers who can assist with reservations and special requests.
The most appealing benefit of casino loyalty programs is the possibility of receiving complimentary services. Residents can enjoy free rooms, dining, and entertainment at participating casinos. There are also dining and hotel stay discounts, which allow locals to afford the services that Atlantic City has to provide more easily.
These complimentary services can prove especially valuable during holiday travel seasons when accommodations and dining are generally more expensive. On top of this, certain casinos offer special discounts on local attractions and activities, making the experience even more enjoyable for locals.
Loyalty programs usually give members priority access to events, including concerts, performances, and exclusive tournaments. These events have the potential to be a massive attraction to locals, giving them experiences that they cannot get from the general public.
High-level members are also likely to get VIP event invitations, which adds to their experience. Such events typically involve meet-and-greets with the performers or athletes, making it a memorable experience for those involved. Moreover, some casinos hold exclusive tournaments for loyalty program members that have high stakes and a competitive atmosphere.
Some casinos in Atlantic City also focus on community involvement through their loyalty programs. By helping to support local charities and events, these programs help to create a feeling of community among members. This aspect can be particularly appealing to locals who want to help support local causes.
Most casinos partner with local organizations to host fundraising events, which the loyalty program members can attend or support. Some loyalty programs also reward points for participating in community activities, such as volunteering or donating to local charities.
Locals need to be aware of the terms and conditions of loyalty programs, as they can change over time. Many casinos made changes to their program, including setting a specific expiration date for comps. Knowing these changes allows locals to get the most out of their participation.
Casinos usually publicize changes through email notifications or website posts, so members must keep themselves informed. Reading the program terms on a periodic basis can also help locals plan their gaming sessions more effectively.
The majority of casinos now align their loyalty programs with mobile apps and social media, allowing real-time updates and promotions. This digital approach makes it easy for locals to stay informed about upcoming events and promotions so they never miss a chance to earn rewards. Mobile apps typically provide a simple way of monitoring points, viewing upcoming events, and redeeming rewards directly from a smartphone.
Additionally, some casinos use social media platforms to advertise special promotions or limited-time offers, which loyalty program members can take advantage of by liking the casino's social media pages.
In as much as loyalty programs have numerous benefits, it is critical that locals practice responsible gaming. Casinos encourage gamblers to set limits and monitor their spending to make gaming in loyalty programs enjoyable and sustainable. These responsible gaming practices include budgeting, tracking expenditures, and taking a break from gaming activity.
Casinos also provide assistance and resources to players who need help with their gaming behavior, such as counseling or self-exclusion programs. By balancing rewards with responsible gaming practices, locals can enjoy the benefits of loyalty schemes while maintaining a healthy gaming relationship.