Cryptologic Review

Cryptologic Gaming Software Review

Cryptologic has been in existence almost from the birth of online gambling. Although Microgaming had produced the world's first online casino in 1994, that site was hamstrung by its non-existent ability to handle real money over the net. But Cryptologic's founders, the Rivkin brothers, had cut their teeth developing a revolutionary secure online financial system, and they quickly constructed a suite of games around this code, launching it as the first proper online casino in 1995.

The company built on this early success, combining a thirst for high programming skills with exhaustive research that has seen the company’s early participation in most of the major developments in online gambling. Whether talking about its multi-level progressive slots, its blitz-speed poker, or extensive branding - including a radical deal that saw the launch of multiple slots based on Marvel Comics characters, like The Hulk, Spiderman, or the Silver Surfer - Cryptologic led the way in the nineties and into the 21st century.

Limited Game Choices

Having said that, the company's table games have perhaps lost a little ground in recent years, with much of the interest going into the slots and its innovative poker platform. Certainly its roulette titles haven't received the sort of attention Microgaming and Playtech have lavished upon their suites. The potential variations cover American, European and Live Dealer versions. The standard American and European tables are clearly set out, and very straightforward to play. Charts of differing chip combinations let you spread your bets across multiple squares with considerable ease, and gameplay can be optimised for speed. However, that is essentially it. Stacked up against the progressive jackpots, bonuses, and graphical extras that its main rivals offer, Cryptologic's offering is, well, a little bit dull.  

Maximum Security

Cryptologic does seem to understand where its advantages lie. Trust is massive for this company, with its systems boasting some of the best security of all, and its ECash service continues to be an intriguing sideline. And while many of the online gambling companies have frequently found themselves walking a legal tightrope, Cryptologic's assured grasp of the complex worldwide regulations (handled mainly through its subsidiary Wagerlogic) has allowed it to keep abreast of tricky rule changes.

Cryptologic is undoubtedly a name you can rely on, and in some areas it wields considerable power. Its poker platform is superb, and its slots have considerable charm. However, roulette players will find the choice of games rather limited and lacking. The company was acquired by Amaya in 2012, and it'll be interesting to see whether the company looks to freshen up its table games section, or whether Cryptologic's main future focus lies elsewhere.