Culture and history

The Russian gaming tradition goes through several eras.

In pre-revolutionary times, excitement was concentrated in noble clubs and private salons, reflected in literature and theater.

In the USSR, commercial excitement was banned, but a culture of state lotteries (including Sportloto) was formed as a permitted and socially oriented format.

In the 1990s, the industry was rapidly commercialized - from gaming halls to casinos in metropolitan areas - which led to tougher regulation.

Since 2009, offline casinos are only allowed in gambling zones, and online casinos are prohibited; while sports betting is allowed under license.

The modern cultural paradigm is "moderation and control": casinos are perceived as part of the resort leisure and event economy, and the massive romanticization of excitement has given way to responsible consumption and strict rules.