How we evaluate, test, and rate online casinos. Our transparent process ensures every recommendation on HMS Antique Trunks is backed by real testing.
At HMS Antique Trunks, we take casino reviews seriously. Every casino featured on our site undergoes a thorough, multi-step evaluation conducted by experienced reviewers who sign up, deposit, play, and withdraw with real money.
We do not accept paid placements or allow casinos to influence our ratings. Our goal is to provide the United States players with honest, data-driven recommendations they can trust.
Each casino is scored across six core categories. The final rating is a weighted average that reflects what matters most to players.
Valid gambling license, SSL encryption, fair gaming certification (eCOGRA, iTech Labs), and responsible gambling tools.
Welcome bonus value, wagering requirements, ongoing promotions, VIP programs, and bonus term transparency.
Variety of slots, table games, live dealer options, software providers, and game quality/performance.
Deposit and withdrawal options, processing times, fees, minimum/maximum limits, and crypto support.
Live chat availability, response time, agent knowledge, email support quality, and FAQ comprehensiveness.
Mobile site performance, app availability, game selection on mobile, UI quality, and touch responsiveness.
Every casino review follows a standardized 7-step testing process to ensure consistency and thoroughness:
We verify the casino's gambling license directly with the issuing authority. We check for any regulatory actions, fines, or player complaints filed against the operator.
We create a real account using accurate information and complete the full KYC (Know Your Customer) verification process. We evaluate sign-up friction, verification speed, and data security.
We make real-money deposits using multiple payment methods. We claim the welcome bonus and verify the actual terms against what is advertised, including wagering requirements and game restrictions.
We play a variety of games across categories — slots, blackjack, roulette, live dealer, and specialty games. We evaluate load times, RTP information, game variety, and software quality.
We request withdrawals through available methods and measure processing times from request to receipt. This is the most critical test — a casino that delays or complicates payouts receives a significant rating penalty.
We contact customer support via live chat, email, and phone (if available) with a mix of simple and complex questions. We measure response time, accuracy, and agent professionalism.
We compile all test results, apply our weighted scoring formula, and draft the review. Every review is fact-checked by a second team member before publication.
HMS Antique Trunks earns revenue through affiliate partnerships. When you click a link on our site and register at a casino, we may receive a commission. This is how we fund our testing and keep our content free for readers.
Our affiliate relationships never influence our ratings. Casinos cannot pay for higher scores, featured placement, or more favorable reviews. The editorial team operates independently from our business partnerships, and our review criteria are applied consistently to every casino we evaluate.
Online casinos change constantly — bonuses are updated, payment methods are added or removed, and new games launch regularly. To keep our recommendations accurate:
Every review page displays a "Last Updated" date so you know how recent our information is.
| Score | Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 9.0 — 10.0 | Outstanding | Exceptional across all categories. Top recommendation. |
| 8.0 — 8.9 | Excellent | Strong performer with minor areas for improvement. |
| 7.0 — 7.9 | Good | Solid casino with some notable weaknesses. |
| 6.0 — 6.9 | Average | Acceptable but significant areas need improvement. |
| Below 6.0 | Not Recommended | Does not meet our quality standards. Not listed. |
We welcome questions about how we review casinos. Transparency is central to our mission. If you have feedback or concerns about a specific review, contact us at [email protected].