Why we built a coastal lounge for mindful play
Our team grew up between Tāmaki Makaurau’s skyline and the South Island’s rugged fjords. We loved the ritual of spinning reels, but not the pressure of real stakes. So we charted a new route: a social casino that is 100% FREE, deeply local, and obsessed with wellbeing.
How it all started
Back in 2023, we ran a weekly game night that always ended with someone sharing a new social slot they found online. The thrill evaporated when we saw how quickly “just for fun” links pushed real deposits. We pledged to create an alternative that leaned into fun without the financial hooks.
We commissioned independent UX researchers, spoke with wellbeing coaches, and invited dozens of Aotearoa-based players to co-design the features. The result launched in early 2025 and keeps evolving with your feedback.
What sets us apart
- Mindful play loops: session caps, gratitude prompts, and coastal breathing exercises.
- Rotating NZ storytellers who pen “human” reviews and blog posts—no AI fluff, no jargon.
- Community-first moderation with zero tolerance for gambling language or cash bait.
- Tech stack optimised for low-latency Oceania routes and responsive access on older devices.
Meet the crew
Our roadmap
Over the next four quarters we plan to introduce cooperative chill quests, Māori language localisation for all static copy, and optional energy check-ins for neurodivergent players. You can follow the progress via our blog and quarterly town-hall streams.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: THIS IS NOT A REAL MONEY CASINO
🚫 NO REAL MONEY GAMBLING: debbiemarquez.com is a 100% FREE social gaming platform for entertainment only. There are no deposits, wagers, or cashouts. All spins use play credits.
🎮 FREE ENTERTAINMENT ONLY: Players must be 18+ and based in New Zealand or visiting digitally. Take regular breaks and contact local support if gaming no longer feels fun.