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Responsible play
Free games should stay fun. Here's how to keep them that way and where to find support.
Keep it enjoyable
The Pines has no real money and no prizes, but any game can take up more time than you planned. These habits help keep play a relaxed part of your day.
- Decide how long you'll play before you start, and stick to it.
- Take regular breaks: stand up, stretch and get a drink of water.
- Play because you enjoy it, not to escape stress or difficult feelings.
- Don't let gaming eat into your sleep, work, studies or time with others.
- Remember that winning in a free game tells you nothing about real-money gambling.
Signs to watch for
It may be time to step back if you:
- regularly play for longer than you meant to;
- feel restless or down when you're not playing;
- keep how much you play hidden from others;
- start thinking about real-money gambling to chase the buzz of a win.
How we can help
- Take a break: ask Player Care to pause your account for as long as you choose.
- Set a limit: ask us to restrict your account.
- Close your account: delete it yourself at any time from your account page.
Use the Player Care form or email [email protected]. A real person will get back to you.
For adults only
The Pines is for adults aged 18 and over in the UK. If you share a device with children, log out after playing and consider using the parental controls on your phone, tablet or computer.
Free, confidential help
If gambling or gaming is affecting you or someone you care about, these UK organisations offer free, confidential support:
- GamCare: National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, 24 hours a day.
- BeGambleAware: advice, self-assessment tools and support.
- Gamblers Anonymous UK: meetings near you and online.
- Mind: help with your mental health.