Last updated: May 2026 — Andrew Stirling, Jvlpoet

How We Rate

Our Review Methodology at Jvlpoet

Every casino review published on jvlpoet.com follows a structured, repeatable methodology developed and applied personally by Andrew Stirling. This page explains exactly how we evaluate non-UK casinos, how we score them, and why UK players can trust our recommendations to be honest, independent, and grounded in real experience.

We do not accept payment from operators in exchange for favourable reviews. We do not publish scores we have not earned through direct testing. What you read on Jvlpoet reflects what Andrew Stirling actually found when he sat down and used each site as a real player would in 2026.

Step-by-Step: How Andrew Stirling Reviews a Casino

Step 1 — Initial Research and Licence Verification

Before anything else, Andrew checks whether the casino holds a valid licence from a recognised regulatory body. For non-UK casinos, this typically means a Curacao eGaming licence or a Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) licence. Licences are verified directly on the issuing authority's official website, not taken at the casino's word.

Step 2 — Account Registration

Andrew creates a real player account using standard details a UK resident would use. This tests how smooth the sign-up process is, what identity documents are requested, and how quickly the account becomes active.

Step 3 — Bonus Claiming and Wagering

Any welcome bonus or promotion is claimed and tested. Andrew reads the full terms and conditions, noting wagering requirements, game restrictions, time limits, and maximum withdrawal caps. He does not rely on the casino's marketing copy alone.

Step 4 — Game Testing

A selection of slots, table games, and live dealer titles are played. Andrew notes software providers, loading speeds, game variety, and whether games run without technical issues.

Step 5 — Deposit and Withdrawal Testing

A real deposit is made using at least one payment method available to UK players. Withdrawal requests are submitted and processing times are recorded. Any fees or complications are noted.

Step 6 — Customer Support Contact

Andrew contacts the support team via live chat and, where available, email. He asks specific questions to assess response times, the accuracy of answers, and the professionalism of the agents.

Step 7 — Mobile Testing

The casino is accessed on a mobile device without a dedicated app, using a browser. Usability, game availability, and checkout processes on mobile are all assessed.

Step 8 — Final Score Calculation

Scores from each category are weighted and combined into a final rating out of 10. The breakdown is explained in detail below.

Our Rating Criteria and Weightings

Each casino is scored across six categories. The final score is a weighted average on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is unacceptable and 10 is outstanding. Below is how each category contributes to the overall score.

Category Weighting What We Assess
Licensing and Safety 25% Licence validity, responsible gambling tools, SSL encryption, fair play certification
Bonuses and Promotions 20% Welcome offer value, wagering requirements, bonus terms fairness, ongoing promotions
Game Selection 20% Number of titles, software providers, live casino quality, game categories
Payment Methods 15% Deposit and withdrawal options, processing times, fees, limits
Customer Support 10% Availability, response speed, accuracy of information, support channels
Mobile Experience 10% Browser usability, mobile game availability, navigation, checkout on mobile

Understanding Our Score Scale

How Jvlpoet Stays Unbiased

Independence is central to everything we publish. Here is how Andrew Stirling and jvlpoet.com maintain editorial integrity:

A Note on Non-UK Casinos and UK Players

All casinos reviewed on Jvlpoet operate outside UK Gambling Commission jurisdiction. This means they are not licensed by the UKGC and UK consumer protections that apply to UKGC-licensed sites may not cover you. Andrew Stirling evaluates these casinos with UK players specifically in mind, flagging any risks clearly within each review so readers can make fully informed decisions.

If you have questions about our methodology or want to suggest a casino for review, you are welcome to get in touch via the contact page on jvlpoet.com.