About James
Hello! I'm James Oliver. I am the lead analyst and founder of Non GamStop Guide UK. My mission is simple: to help British players find safe, fair, and regulated alternatives to UKGC casinos.
My journey in the gambling industry began over a decade ago in 2012. I started my career working on the floor of a prestigious land-based casino in London’s Mayfair district. There, I learned the mathematics of games and the psychology of players.
In 2016, I shifted to the digital world, working as a compliance officer for a major iGaming aggregator. This role opened my eyes to the complexities of licensing. I saw firsthand how strict regulations often pushed players towards unsafe, black-market sites. I realized there was a need for a guide that verified legitimate offshore casinos that operate legally but offer more freedom.
Today, I lead a small team of experts dedicated to reviewing international brands. I don't just read about casinos; I play at them with my own money to ensure they treat players fairly.
My Testing Methodology
Trust is everything. I never recommend a casino I haven't tested personally. Here is my rigorous 5-step process for every review:
Before anything else, I verify the license validity directly with the regulator (Curacao, Anjouan, or Kahnawake). If the license is fake, the review ends there.
I create an account anonymously and deposit at least £100 using varied methods like Visa, Monzo, or Bitcoin to test the cashier speed.
I claim the welcome bonus and carefully read the T&Cs. I check for hidden traps like "max win caps" or unfair wagering requirements.
This is the most critical step. I request a cashout. If a casino delays payments or asks for unreasonable documents, it gets a blacklist warning.
Beyond the Casino: My Hobbies
When I'm not analyzing RTP rates or writing reviews, I try to disconnect from the digital world.
Football
Die-hard Arsenal fan. I try to catch every Premier League match at the weekends.
Chess
I love strategy. Chess keeps my mind sharp and helps with patience.
Travel
I visit Malta and Curacao annually to attend iGaming conferences and meet operators.