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Following months of buildup, GiddyUp is set to launch in the United States. The platform offers real-money prize opportunities but takes a different approach than standard online casinos. Instead of relying on traditional casino formats, gameplay centers on live horse racing results.
Instead of random number generators (RNG), game outcomes are tied to live racing. This concept is popularly known as parimutuel betting. Under this format, players’ stakes are pooled, and the results depend on actual races.
Early users will receive a $5 no-deposit bonus as part of the sign-up perks. The platform also plans to introduce additional rewards when it officially goes live. With several developments on the horizon, PlayUSA sat down with Jon Kaplowitz, CEO of KHK Games Inc., to discuss the platform’s structure, regulatory standing, and launch timeline.
The strategy behind GiddyUp: A Q&A with Jon Kaplowitz
Q: For someone hearing about GiddyUp for the first time, how would you describe it in one sentence?
Kaplowitz: GiddyUp is an online entertainment platform where players can engage in real-money games powered by the results of live horse races. The platform blends digital gameplay with real racing outcomes for a unique and engaging experience.
Q: How does GiddyUp serve players in states where traditional online casinos or sweepstakes are restricted?
Kaplowitz: Our platform is built for players in states where real-money online casinos or sweepstakes options are limited or prohibited. At launch, the platform will be available in several major markets, including California, New York, and Louisiana.
The platform operates under a license from the Oregon Racing Commission, which allows us to offer real-money games legally and in a regulated manner. By using live horse racing as the basis for its games, GiddyUp provides a safe, compliant option for players seeking legal real-money gaming alternatives.
Q: How do you explain GiddyUp’s model to players in a simple way, especially compared to casino gaming?
Kaplowitz: The GiddyUp interface is designed to be familiar to players accustomed to online casino games. The appearance and dynamics are intuitive enough that players do not need to learn new mechanics before they start.
The key distinction lies in the method used to determine results. Rather than using RNGs, the platform links every game outcome to a live horse race. Since the platform is licensed and regulated by the Oregon Racing Commission, players can engage knowing the games are legal, transparent, and player-friendly.
Q: How does GiddyUp’s gameplay experience differ from standard RNG-driven casino sites?
Kaplowitz: GiddyUp features similar content and provides a fun alternative to traditional real-money or sweepstakes gaming sites, but the engine driving the “win” is entirely different.
Q: How are live horse racing wagers converted into the games players see on their screens?
Kaplowitz: Players purchase credits to use on our games. When purchasing credits, players are actually placing live horse racing wagers. The outcome of a player’s spins is determined by those live racing results.
Q: How does GiddyUp provide transparency to players who want to see the data behind their game results?
Kaplowitz: Before completing a credit purchase, players can review the horse racing bet slips linked to their games. These slips indicate the specific races that will determine future outcomes. Players are not locked in right away; they can review the details and decide whether to proceed. This transparency helps build trust.
Q: For players skeptical of non-RNG systems, what independent oversight ensures GiddyUp’s outcomes are fair?
Kaplowitz: Some players are unsure when games do not use random number systems. GiddyUp addresses this by linking each result to live horse races yet to take place. Outcomes are decided only after those races are run.
Gaming Laboratories International also tests and certifies the games. This establishes that the systems are operating as described and in accordance with industry standards. Moreover, the platform is under the Oregon Racing Commission’s oversight, offering an extra layer of confidence.
Q: Who is the main target audience for GiddyUp?
Kaplowitz: We are looking for casual real-money gaming fans who want fun, safe, and legal online experiences. That includes casual bettors, horse racing fans, and people who enjoy online gaming.
Q: Do players need to be horse racing experts to succeed on the platform, or is it designed for a more casual audience?
Kaplowitz: You don’t need to know anything about horse racing to enjoy GiddyUp. We are combining traditional gaming experiences with best-in-class features, including daily quests, bonuses, and exclusive content.
Q: How fast can a brand-new player understand the game?
Kaplowitz: GiddyUp allows users to experience the platform with no risk. We are giving $5 in free credits to all new registrants to help them feel more comfortable with the experience.
Q: What kinds of real-money games will players have access to at launch?
Kaplowitz: GiddyUp will have a variety of games at launch, including reel games, crash-style games, bingo, and classic table-style games. This offers diversity while maintaining a familiar experience. The library will include both exclusive GiddyUp titles and games from trusted third-party content providers.
Q: Can you provide more details on the rewards system and long-term plans?
Kaplowitz: At launch, players can take advantage of a welcome offer, daily bonuses, quests, player-specific promotions, and a refer-a-friend program. GiddyUp will continue to find new ways to make the customer experience more valuable.
Q: How does the platform proactively identify at-risk behavior, and what real-time controls are available to players?
Kaplowitz: GiddyUp provides regulatory-grade responsible gaming tools. Players can take a break for a set amount of time, set deposit and loss limits, and limit their daily time on the site. We also use periodic pop-ups to notify users how long they’ve been playing.
Q: Which states will have access at launch, and what is the timeline?
Kaplowitz: At launch, GiddyUp will be available in 17 states: Alabama, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. We are targeting a public launch at the end of February and will continue to roll out new states and features shortly after.
