A wave of change is sweeping through the online gaming landscape in Tennessee, as a major player, VGW, has announced it’s phasing out its sweepstakes-style promotions. This decision follows a period of increasing scrutiny from state regulators regarding unlicensed gaming sites, marking another retreat in a growing trend.
The move comes swiftly after VGW halted similar offerings in West Virginia, signaling a broader strategic shift. Players in Tennessee were informed they will no longer be able to acquire Sweeps Coins – the key to certain games – starting November 24, 2025. This impacts how they’ve enjoyed the platform for years.
While the sweepstakes promotions are disappearing, VGW assures players they can still enjoy their favorite free-to-play games using Gold Coins. The company emphasizes a commitment to a smooth transition, acknowledging the disappointment some players may feel after years of engagement with their brands.
The deadline for using existing Sweeps Coins is December 23, 2025, after which gameplay with those coins will cease. A final window for redemption requests will remain open until January 20, 2026, offering a limited time to convert winnings.
VGW’s departure is directly linked to the Tennessee Sports Wagering Council’s intensified crackdown on platforms deemed to be operating illegally. Just weeks prior, the council announced three other groups – BetWhale.ag, Kickr, and ReBet – had ceased sports betting operations within the state.
BetWhale, an offshore sportsbook, faced a hefty $50,000 fine and a cease and desist notice. Kickr and ReBet, both utilizing social and sweepstakes models, also suspended their services, demonstrating the council’s firm stance.
The Council is urging Tennessee residents to utilize only licensed sportsbooks, emphasizing the importance of protecting personal and financial information. The availability of an app or website doesn’t guarantee its legal authorization, they warn, directing users to the state’s official list of approved operators.
This enforcement isn’t happening in a vacuum; Tennessee’s legal sportsbooks processed an impressive $5.6 billion in wagers during the last fiscal year, highlighting the significant market at stake. The Council’s actions are clearly aimed at safeguarding this regulated space.
VGW isn’t alone in its exit. Thrillzz, KicKr, and ReBet have also recently pulled out of Tennessee, all identified as operating illegal sports gaming platforms. Earlier in the year, Legendz and Sportzino also withdrew their sports betting products, though Legendz continues to offer casino-style games.
While Tennessee hasn’t enacted a specific ban on sweepstakes gambling, regulators are increasingly interpreting existing laws to encompass sweepstakes-based sports betting models. This evolving legal landscape is prompting operators to reassess their positions.
Faced with mounting pressure, some companies are proactively choosing to withdraw rather than risk substantial fines or legal battles. VGW has previously scaled back sweepstakes play in New Jersey and New York, indicating a broader pattern of adjustment.
