Stake.us Shakes Up Sweepstakes Casinos: Evolution and Other Smaller Studios Now Off-Limits in Illinois
Evolution’s games, together with a host of smaller studios, are no longer accessible in Stake.us, raising questions whether the popular sweepstakes casino operator is facing a round of fresh scrutiny
The shake-up in the broader sweepstakes casino industry continues, and this time, some of the top software vendors are feeling the heat. Evolution Gaming, one of the leading suppliers of casino content, is now out of Illinois, at least in Stake.us.
At the start of January 2026, Stake.us players can no longer access and play Evolution’s gaming titles, including its live casino games and slots from its subsidiaries, such as NetEnt, NoLimit City, Red Tiger, and Sneaky Slots. We’ve collected reports that game titles from smaller studios, like Fat Panda and 24/7 Reels, are no longer available.
Evolution Issues Warning: “We Would Immediately Go Away”
In its Q3 earnings call, Evolution CEO Martin Carlesund shared the status of the company’s US operations, and its roadmap. Carlesund offered a voice of caution, and shed light on how the popular vendor is approaching the country’s iGaming and sweepstakes casino market.
He explained that Evolution would only offer sweepstakes casino products “in states where it is not prohibited or where there are no legal uncertainties”.
Carlesund added that if a state authority intervene, the company would not attempt to question its interpretation.
Sweepstakes a Small Part of Evolution’s Revenue
In the same earnings call with investors, Carlesund admitted that sweepstakes games form a small part of its total revenue. However, he explained that the company believe in its potential, and they’re ready to provide a variety of great gaming content.
Currently, Evolution Gaming is the industry leader in live casino content. The Swedish company is best known for its innovative and engaging live dealer titles, including Lightning Roulette, Monopoly Live, and Crazy Time.
In addition to its proprietary live casino games, Evolution also releases slots games through its affiliate studios like NetEnt and Red Tiger Gaming.
Evolution’s Exit Reflects a Broader Market Movement
Evolution’s exit from Stake.us portfolio in Illinois isn’t the first pull-out of a software vendor. A similar move happened in California late last yer, where Evolution Gaming and Pragmatic Play have stopped displaying their games on Stake.us.
The move of Stake.us and Evolution in Illionis reflects a growing trend in the industry. While the exact reason for Evolution’s exit isn’t publicly shared, many observers say that there’s regulatory pressure right now in Illinois, prompting operators and vendors to recalibrate.
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About the author
Ryan Cauchi
Hi, I’m Ryan, a 24-year-old from Malta with a background in Creative Media Production and a Journalism degree. With a deep sweepstakes casino knowledge, I have reviewed over 80 platforms on Stakester and am now turned my focus to sweepstakes casino news, to keep all our users up-to-the-minute on every development and regulatory change. I am passionate about sharing insights to help players make informed and enjoyable gaming choices.