Your Wellbeing Matters
Responsible Play Guide
Even free games deserve mindful play. Here's how to keep it healthy.
1. About This Guide
Valhalla Social Casino is a free entertainment platform. No real money is ever used, wagered, or won. All games use virtual coins that have zero monetary value and cannot be exchanged for anything.
However, we recognise that engagement with game mechanics — even without financial stakes — can become habitual or emotionally significant. We believe all players deserve honest information and a path to support if they ever need it. This guide exists because we take that responsibility seriously.
2. The Warrior's Code — 4 Rules for Healthy Play
Set a time limit before each session. Decide how long you'll play before you start, and stick to it. Gaming is entertainment, not a destination.
Take breaks every 20–30 minutes. Step away from the screen. Stretch, hydrate, and return only if you still want to — not out of habit.
Never chase losses. Virtual coins have no value. A lost coin balance is simply numbers resetting — it carries no real-world consequence. Don't let the feeling of "getting even" keep you playing.
If gaming affects your daily life, seek support immediately. The moment gaming interferes with sleep, work, relationships, or mood, please reach out to one of the organisations listed below.
3. Warning Signs to Watch For
These signs can apply to any gaming, including free social casino games. If you recognise yourself in three or more of these, please seek support.
- Thinking about the games constantly, even when not playing
- Playing longer than you intended, repeatedly
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not playing
- Using games to escape problems, stress, or low mood
- Neglecting responsibilities — work, family, health — to play
- Hiding gaming habits from friends or family
- Feeling unable to stop, even when you want to
- Spending increasing amounts of time gaming
- Your mood depending heavily on game outcomes
- Gaming affecting your sleep quality or patterns
GamCare: 0808 8020 133 (24/7, free, confidential)
4. UK Support Directory
All of the following services are free, confidential, and available to anyone in the UK.
| Organisation | Contact | Available |
|---|---|---|
| GamCare | 0808 8020 133 / gamcare.org.uk | 24/7 |
| BeGambleAware | begambleaware.org | Online |
| GAMSTOP | gamstop.co.uk | Online |
| NHS Gambling Support | nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support/gambling-addiction/ | Online |
| Samaritans | 116 123 / samaritans.org | 24/7 |
| Gamblers Anonymous UK | gamblersanonymous.org.uk | Online / Meetings |
| National Debtline | 0808 808 4000 / nationaldebtline.org | Mon–Fri |
5. Self-Exclusion and Blocking Tools
If you find yourself returning to any gaming site more than you'd like, these tools can help you create distance:
GAMSTOP — Online Casino Self-Exclusion
Register with GAMSTOP to self-exclude from all UKGC-licensed online gambling sites. Note: this applies to licensed gambling sites, not free social casino platforms.
Browser Extensions
Use browser extensions like "Block Site" or "StayFocusd" to block specific websites or set daily time limits across any category of site.
Device Screen Time Controls
iOS: Settings → Screen Time. Android: Digital Wellbeing & Parental Controls. Both allow you to set daily time limits on websites and apps.
Bank Card Controls
Many UK banks — including Monzo, Starling, Lloyds, and Barclays — allow you to block gambling transactions directly from your banking app. Though Valhalla Social Casino has no payments, this tool is useful for any real-money gambling sites you may use elsewhere.