Real money games in India: how to play and win cash rewards

With the introduction of smartphones and easy access to the internet, the popularity of real money games has boomed in India. Real money games are basically the games that you can play online and win real money. There are two types of real money games online: skill-based and luck-based. Legal restrictions on real money games in each country depend on whether the game is skill-based or luck-based. The rules are much stricter for luck-based games, as the risks involved in playing these games are higher.

There are a number of trusted apps online that offer a safe and secure platform to play skill-based games and win big rewards.

What are real money games?

First, let’s understand the difference between skill-based and luck-based games. Each move in a luck-based game depends on the random occurrence of favourable or unfavourable outcomes, regardless of the player’s intentions. Luck holds all the power in determining the winner of these games. However, luck-based games induce excitement that can be addictive. For example, slot machines, roulette, and lottery.

Skill-based games depend on the player’s analytical or critical thinking. To succeed in skill-based games, the player’s knowledge, decision-making, and strategy play an important role. For example, chess, rummy, poker, and fantasy sports.

As more people are into online gaming, they are not just playing games to pass the time but also winning real money through these platforms. The most engaging thing about skill-based games is they can only be aced by using analytical skills, thus giving a sense of achievement to its players when they play and win by participating in these games.

Legal restrictions on real money games depend on whether the game is skill-based or luck-based. Because luck-based games are habit forming, addictive, and entertaining at the same time, the risks involved can lead to huge money losses. In India, playing skill-based games like rummy is legal. Do note that in 1968, the Supreme Court of India declared that rummy is a game of skill. However, states of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Sikkim, Nagaland, Telangana, and Meghalaya currently do not allow rummy games that involve stakes.

Types of real money games in India

Here are the most popular real money games that Indian players love to play and win on.

1. Rummy

It’s a popular card game that allows players to use their skills and strategy. It is mainly played among 2-6 players using one or two decks of 52 cards each. In this game, 13 cards are dealt to each player to form valid sets and sequences. The winner is the one who has at least two sequences, one of which must be a pure sequence, and the remaining cards can be arranged in sequences or sets. Throughout the game, the player picks a card from the closed or open deck, and then discards a card on their turn. A joker is randomly selected at the beginning of the game. There are three variants of rummy: Points, Pool, and Deals. Each variant of rummy is engaging and requires practice plus skill, to play.

2. Poker

Poker is one of the most entertaining card games. Players ought to have skill, strategy, and a clear understanding of this game to ace it. In this game, players either bet more if they have a strong hand or fold when dealt weak hands. The most popular variant of poker, Texas Hold’em, requires players to use their two private cards wisely along with 5 community cards and form a good hand of 5 cards. That being said, the game of poker is not just about getting a strong hand through luck, but about the skill of betting, bluffing, and folding at the right time.

3. Fantasy sports 

To play fantasy sport games, players need to form their own virtual teams with real-life players for the online matches they want to participate in. Fantasy sport players get points according to the performance of real-life players in the actual game – basically it’s about coming up with the best team possible by carefully forecasting how the players will perform. And, to do so, fantasy sport players need to have a deep understanding of the game, real-life players, and game insights.

Let’s understand the fantasy points system with an example. If you pick a batsman who scores 60 runs in just 30 balls, hitting 5 sixes and 4 fours. Here’s what his point break up will look like.

Please note that the calculation mentioned above is just for you to understand how the points system works. Each fantasy gaming app might assign a different point value for every action taken by the player.

4. Ludo

The evolution of ludo from a fun family board game to a rewarding real-money game has been a game-changer. The gameplay of the real money ludo game is the same as traditional ludo, but the addition of cash prizes made it more exciting and rewarding for its enthusiasts. First, players join a game with a certain amount of entry fee which contributes to the overall cash prize amount. Players need to be strategic, quick, and skilled to compete and win the prize.

5. Teen Patti – Indian poker variant

Teen patti is a simple game that can be played between 3 to 6 players with 1 deck of cards. The idea of the game is to win the hand either through a strong set of cards or make your opponents fold. As the name suggests, each player gets three cards at the start of the game. On their turn, every player either bets, calls, or folds. At the end of the round, all the participating players show their hand and the winner is decided. The hand-ranking in teen patti is similar to poker:

6. Call Break – how to play and win

Call break is a game that is played with 4 players using a standard deck of 52 cards. It is a game that involves strategy and analytical skills. The ranking of cards in call break is in descending order – from Ace to 2. Each player gets 13 cards at the start of the game and they are required to bet how many hands they are going to win based on their cards. Let’s say, you bet that you are going to win four hands and in the end, you do win four hands, then you will get 4 points. But, if you fail to win 4 hands, you will get minus(-) 4 points. If you win more than 4 hands, then each extra hand will get added to your points tally but in decimals. For example, if you win 5, you get 4.1 points, 6 hands will get you 4.2 points, and so on. It’s important to analyse the cards carefully before making a bet.

In call break, every spade is a trump card. A trump card, no matter its value, will win against any other suit that has been shown in the hand unless it’s another trump card of a higher value. You can throw a trump card in call break only if you do not have a card of the suit that is being played during a hand.

Top 10 apps to play real money games

Here are the top 10 apps in India to play real money games securely and seamlessly.

RummyCulture

RummyCulture, rewarded as India’s no. 1 rummy app by Unomer Technologies, is trusted by 3.2 crore+ verified rummy players. It’s a platform that offers smooth gameplay along with hassle-free withdrawals. Also, RummyCulture understands the needs and wants of its players, their 24×7 customer support is available in 5 languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. The convenience of obtaining a solution to problems in the preferred language of the players makes RummyCulture more reliable and trustworthy. Whether the issue is related to gameplay or payment, RummyCulture’s customer support is just a call away.

Features

1. Multiple game variants – RummyCulture offers three variants of rummy – Pool (61, 101, & 201), Deals, and Points. These variants are available in the form of practice games, especially for beginners. Players can explore these variants to choose the best suited one to play and win big on the platform.

2. Safe and secure gaming on RummyCulture – RummyCulture has consistently maintained the trust of 3.2 crore+ verified players with its safe and secure gameplay. RummyCulture always ensures that all data, from personal to bank details, related to players, is safe and secure.

3. RNG certification – RummyCulture has received certification for RNG (Random Number Generator) from iTech Labs in Australia. This simply means that the app uses an algorithm to generate random numbers, ensuring that the distribution of cards to players is random and fair. It also ensures that all players get equal and fair chances as the cards are drawn from a properly shuffled deck.

4. ISO certification– RummyCulture is an ISO 9001:2015 certified app. The certificate signifies that the app follows strict practices and adheres to high standards in its processes to deliver the best services to its players.

5. No-Bot certification –RummyCulture is a No-Bot certified app. The certification conveys that the app does not allow the usage of bots on its platform. Only verified players are allowed to play, and it does not support bots to control, mimic, assist, aid, or override real player actions.

6. KYC verification- RummyCulture ensures that every player completes their KYC verification on the app. This ensures adherence to legal standards, prevents fraud, builds a secure gaming environment, and promotes responsible gaming practices.

7. Fair play policy- RummyCulture has a strict fair play policy that ensures players maintain high standards of fairness, competition, skill, and sportsmanship in all games played on the platform.

8. Responsible gaming- RummyCulture values its players and encourages responsible gaming on the platform. Players can set their daily or Add Cash limits and the amount of time spent on the app each day.

9. Secure payment gateways- Players can deposit money to their RummyCulture account through debit or credit card, UPI, and net banking. The RummyCulture payment gateways adhere to PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards). This ensures we follow a universal set of rules and regulations that are set by global entities like Visa, Mastercard etc.

10. Play weekly rummy tournaments to win big – RummyCulture offers two weekly rummy tournaments that allow players to improve their skills and win big: Saturday Bumper Cash and Sunday Mega Blockbuster. From beginners to advanced players, everyone can participate for free in these tournaments to win real cash prizes.

Available on- Android and iOS devices
Rating- 4.7/5 (40,000 reviews)

RummyTime

RummyTime is a popular rummy app that is trusted by crores of Indian rummy players. It offers a safe and secure platform to its players along with seamless gameplay and features. Another reason why RummyTime is the choice of more than 1.5 crore rummy players is that it offers some of the biggest prize pools in the gaming industry. Rummy players can join tournaments, both free and otherwise, and can win from massive prize pools. There is always a significant number of rummy players on the RummyTime app, as it offers big rewards and a good gaming experience. Plus, there is always a dedicated team that offers round-the-clock customer support. This support is provided in five regional languages and they are always available to address player concerns.

Features

1. Game variants – There are three different variants of rummy available on RummyTime: Pool (61, 101 & 201) Deals, and Points. This is because the platform caters to a diverse group of gamers who can choose their favourite format and play what they want.
2. Tournaments – There are many exciting and fun tournaments that players can choose to join on RummyTime. It should be noted that there are free tournaments and cash tournaments. Free tournaments have no entry fees and winners win from a prize pool of Discount Credits. Cash tournaments have a fixed entry fee. And, you can win from incredible prize pools.
3. Big and exciting weekend tournaments – The platform hosts two free tournaments on both Saturday and Sunday – Saturday Mega Freeroll and Sunday Ultimate Freeroll
4. Safe and secure rummy games on RummyTime – The reason over 1.5 crore players have trusted RummyTime to play the game is because it is a highly safe and secure platform. The platform employs state-of-the-art technology to ensure the security of players.
5. RNG certification – RummyTime has a random number generator (RNG) that has been certified by iTech Labs which is an accredited global authority in its field. This means all cards are shuffled thoroughly and distributed to players randomly with no bias or prejudice.
6. ISO certification – RummyTime is an ISO (ISO 17025) certified gaming platform. This means that the app has procedures in place that are of the highest standards.
7. SSL connection – RummyTime is also SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certified. It is an additional protection that ensures the safety of players’ data.
8. Mandatory verification of KYC documents – Before any player can Add Cash and play cash games, they will have to complete the KYC verification process. While it generally takes less than 2 minutes, the platform’s automated process requires users to upload documents pertaining to their Permanent Account Number (PAN) and their bank account. Only when it is verified, can they move forward to playing cash games. This ensures all players are real and authenticated gamers.
9. Fair play policy – RummyTime has in place a set of rules and regulations for gamers to ensure a secure gaming environment for all. They are terms and conditions that promote fairness, competition, skill, and sportsmanship.
10. Responsible play – All players must be at least 18 years of age to play on RummyTime. The platform has also a set of standard practices in place to urge players to keep gaming responsibly.
11. Secure payment gateways – Players can Add Cash through UPI (GPay, PhonePe, Paytm), credit/debit cards, and net banking. The withdrawal process is also secure and safe.

Available on- Android and iOS devices
Rating- 4.1/5 (29,900 reviews)

Winzo

Winzo is the ultimate destination for 25 crore+ skill-based players, offering 100+ skill-based games with exciting rewards.

Features

1. Games in multiple languages – To cater to the larger groups of players all across the country, they have 100+ skill based games in 12 languages.
2. Easy deposits and withdrawal – Winzo provides easy and convenient payment options to its players, like UPI, PayTm, PhonePe, Google Pay, and bank transfers.
3. Round-the-clock support – Winzo provides 24×7 customer support to its players.
4. No-bot certified – The Winzo app is No-bot certified that means you’ll be playing with only verified, real players.
5. RNG certified platform – This means all cards are shuffled thoroughly and distributed to players randomly with no bias.

Available on- Android and iOS devices
Rating- 4.7/5

Ludo Empire

Ludo Empire is a real-money game for ludo players in India. The Ludo Empire has come up with new and refreshing formats of the classic game of ludo – they made it more rewarding and engaging. They offer multiple formats to their players so that they can enjoy the game of ludo at their comfort. The app allows players to play ludo with more than 5 crore+ players in the public or join friends and family mode.

Features

1. Different game modes – Ludo Empire has four types of modes: Classic, Public, Quick, and Private.
2. 24×7 customer support – Ludo Empire is available with round-the-clock support, allowing their players to play ludo without any worry.
3. Multiple payment options – Ludo Empire allows players to play and earn money by defeating their opponents in a match. The transactions are always safe and secure, supported by top payment platforms such as PhonePe and GPay and any bank transfer.
4. Instant withdrawals – The instant withdrawal feature of the game allows players to get their winnings instantly into their bank accounts in a safe and secure way.
5. Referral rewards – Ludo Empire offers rewarding referral bonuses to its players on referring the app to their friends.

Available on- Android and iOS devices
Rating- 4.4/5

Dream 11

Dream 11 is a fantasy sport platform that allows players to form their virtual teams with real-life players. And, the participants get points based on the performance of real-life players in the match. Currently, it has 20 crore players on its platform.

Features

1. Wide range of sports – On Dream 11, you can play 8 fantasy sports like cricket, basketball, hockey, football, volleyball, handball, baseball, and kabaddi. You can form your team keeping the understanding of the game and its players in mind.
2. Covers famous tournaments – It allows players to showcase their skills in real-world matches and features major football and cricket leagues such as UEFA, FPL, La Liga, UCL, Bundesliga, IPL etc.
3. Multiple payment options – You can choose from a variety of payment methods like UPI, net banking, credit/debit cards, etc.
4. Referral rewards – Dream 11 offers rewarding referral bonuses to its players on referring the app to their friends.

Available on- Android and iOS devices
Rating- 4.7/5 (2,750,143 reviews)

Zupee

Zupee is an online platform that offers a variety of real-money games – from ludo to snakes & ladders to cricket card games. Along with 4 variations of ludo, it has ₹10 crore+ verified players on its platform.

Features

1. Smooth and instant withdrawals – Players can quickly withdraw their winnings into their account. Players don’t need to think twice about the safety and security of this platform.
2. Ludo variants – Zupee offers four variants of ludo: Classic, Supreme, Turbo, and Supreme League. The avid players of ludo can explore these variants to play and win on the app.
3. Bonuses and rewards – From sign-up rewards to referral rewards, Zupee offers exciting and rewarding offers to its players to encourage more and more participation.
4. 24×7 customer support – Zupee has 24×7 customer support, allowing their players to play real-money games without any worry.

Available on- Android and iOS devices
Rating- 4.5/5 (827,911 reviews)

MPL

Mobile Premier League (MPL) is a skill-gaming platform that allows users to participate in free as well as paid competitions. They have a wide range of 60+ games, including sports, puzzles, casual, and board games.

Features

1. Withdraw cash instantly – MPL claims that 80% of the transactions are processed in less than a minute on their platform
2. Real and verified players – Players on MPL play games with only verified and real players. There are 1 lakh+ real players on the platform.
3. 100% safe and secure – MPL is a safe and secure platform with no bots, RNG certification, and customer support.
4. 24×7 customer support – MPL customer support team is available 24×7 to resolve players’ issues.

Available on- Android and iOS devices
Rating- 4.5/5 (23,43,21 reviews)

A23

A23 is a reliable real-money gaming platform with 7 crore+ players, offering them big rewards. It offers a safe and secure platform to play rummy and poker on its platform. Players can enjoy seamless online cash games with real cash withdrawals, fast transactions, and thrilling rewards on A23.

Features

1. Secure payment gateways – A23 provides multiple secure payment options. Players can choose Paytm, PhonePe, and BillDesk, along with other payment gateways.
2. 24×7 customer support – A23 support team is available 24×7 to assist with any queries players may have about their game.
3. Responsible gaming – Players can set daily or monthly deposit limits on A23 without worrying about overspending. The app also has the self exclusion feature that allows you to take a break from the game for a specific period of time.
4. No-bot certification – A23 is a 100% bot-free platform. The app has been evaluated and certified by iTech Labs for essential technical requirements.
5. Safe and secure platform – To ensure that every player enjoys a safe online rummy game experience, A23 has implemented fair play regulations and remains transparent with their activities.

Available on- Android and iOS devices
Rating- 4.1/5

PokerBaazi

PokerBaazi is an ideal platform to play poker and win big rewards. The platform has the trust of 50 lakh players. It is a safe and secure platform for every poker enthusiast.

Features

1. RNG certified platform – In every game, all cards are shuffled thoroughly and distributed to players randomly with no bias.
2. Multiple formats – Players can choose from 3 poker game formats – Open face poker, cash games, and tournaments.
3. Secure transactions – PokerBaazi supports a wide range of secure payment gateways including UPI, Paytm, NetBanking, and credit/debit cards for hassle-free deposits and withdrawals.

Available on- Android and iOS devices
Rating- 4.8/5 (86,943)

RummyCircle

RummyCircle is the online rummy platform that provides a safe and secure platform to every rummy lover. It offers fast gameplay, secure platform and safe transactions along with international standards of gameplay. Over 7 crore+ verified players play rummy on RummyCircle.

Features

1. 24×7 customer support – RummyCircle is available with round-the-clock support, allowing their players to play rummy without any hassle.
2. RNG certification – The app uses an algorithm to generate random numbers, ensuring that the distribution of cards to players is random and fair. It also ensures that all players get equal and fair chances as the cards are drawn from a properly shuffled deck.
3. Multiple game variants – RummyCircle offers three variants of rummy – Pool, Deals, and Points. Big tournaments with big rewards also go live on this platform.
4. Fastest withdrawals – Players can get their winnings into their bank account within seconds on RummyCircle. There is no waiting time and their customer support is available 24×7.

Available on- Android and iOS devices
Rating- 4.2/5

How to start playing real money games online?

It is quite easy and seamless to start playing real money games online. Let’s take an example of playing rummy on RummyCulture:

Step 1: Before downloading any app, please ensure that the app is a trusted platform with relevant certifications.

•  In the case of RummyCulture, it is an ISO, RNG, and no bot certified app which means it’s safe to play real money games and win rewards on the platform.
• New players can also go through the reviews or testimonials on the official website
• Look for SSL encryption to protect players’ financial data. SSL encryption keeps the data safe and secure from hackers.

Step 2: Once you are sure about the safety and security features of the app, download it from Play Store/App Store

• Search for “RummyCulture” on Play Store/App Store.
• Select the right app.
• Tap Install.

Players can start by adding some basic information like name, contact number and email address on the app. Then, the player must enter the OTP sent to the listed number. This ensures that the profile is genuine. After the verification, players are set to play rummy.

Step 3: After registering on the app, just complete KYC verification to ensure smooth withdrawals, fraud prevention, and be verified as a genuine player

Step 4: Ensure that the app has your preferred payment method. On RummyCulture, players get the option to choose from UPI, Google Pay, cards, and net banking for deposits and withdrawals.

Tips to win cash rewards in online money games

There is no specific tactic to win cash in real-money games. It’s all about practice, skill, right decision-making, and playing the game responsibly.

1. Setting a daily or weekly spending limit

By doing this, players can play the game responsibly, as taking a break from the game is important to perform better.

2. Practice more to understand the rules

Learning the game rules by playing practice games helps players to perform better in cash tournaments or games.

3. Choose a credible platform

To experience the best gameplay, it’s important to select a safe and secure platform. Apps with strict fair play policies help keep bots and frauds at bay.

4. Avoid impulsive decisions

Online real-money games are risky if not played with patience and responsibility. Every action that a player takes while playing the game has some effect.

Payment methods for deposits & withdrawals

To win big cash prizes in real-money gaming, it’s important for players to be aware of the payment methods involved in the process. From depositing money to withdrawing, an easy and convenient payment mode helps you elevate your experience even more.

Here are a few payment methods that are available mostly on every real-money gaming platform:

• UPI 

This is considered the fastest option to deposit and withdraw money. Your UPI is linked to your bank account and once set up, you can get your money transferred directly into your account without any hassle.

• Net Banking

Although net banking requires a few extra steps to set up, compared to other payment options. But, once it’s all set – it’s a safe and secure method to move your funds.

• Cards

Trusted by many people, it’s a convenient and safe way to complete transactions through Visa or Mastercard debit cards.

Common mistakes to avoid in real money games

New to real money games? Avoid these common mistakes to play safely and smartly.

• Playing on unreliable platforms

Always check if the platform has strict fair play policies that ensure players’ safety and security. Playing on suspicious platforms can lead to significant financial losses.

• Playing without knowing the game

If you’re playing a game as a beginner, it’s important to completely understand the rules of the game. First, play practice games to learn the strategies of the game and then start cash games.

• Not setting deposit or withdrawal limits

Most skill-based or luck-based games are highly engaging and can be addictive. Setting deposit or withdrawal limits helps you avoid overspending and supports responsible gaming.

So, what are you waiting for? Download the RummyCulture app to experience real-money gaming on the best and safest platform.

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