Responsible Play

Our Commitment

StarGem Match is a free-to-play social casino. No real money goes in and no real money comes out. The site is intended exclusively for adults aged 18 and over in New Zealand. Even though every game on this site is free, we take responsible play seriously because time and well-being matter.

• All gameplay uses virtual Stardust Coins — no purchases, no deposits, no withdrawals.
• Our Responsible Play programme is led by Aroha Kingi, our Community and Responsible Play Lead.
• We publish quarterly transparency reports on play patterns and responsible-play tool usage.

Setting Your Own Limits

Because no real money is at stake, the most valuable resource you spend on StarGem Match is your time. We encourage you to decide in advance how long you intend to play — and to stick to that limit.

The Responsible Play Dashboard (accessible from any game screen) lets you:

• Set a session timer that reminds you when your chosen time is up.
• Review your play history — how long you have played, which games, and when.
• Take an immediate break by locking the games for a period you choose.
• Notice if you find yourself thinking about your Stardust Coin balance away from the site — that is a signal to step back.

Warning Signs to Watch For

The following patterns are not judgements. They are signals worth noticing — even in a free-to-play environment:

• Spending more time playing than you originally intended, regularly.
• Feeling irritable or restless when you are unable to play.
• Using play to cope with anxiety, low mood, or stress rather than as a casual entertainment break.
• Neglecting work, study, sleep, meals, or relationships in order to keep playing.
• Developing a growing interest in real-money gambling sites as an extension of social-casino play.
• Feeling a strong urge to "win back" virtual coins after a losing streak, even though they have no monetary value.

If any of these resonate, consider stepping away and reaching out to one of the support services below.

Where to Get Help

• Gambling Helpline NZ — free phone and online counselling service for anyone affected by gambling harm in New Zealand.
• PGF Group — the Problem Gambling Foundation, offering face-to-face counselling, education, and advocacy across Aotearoa.
• Ministry of Health — Problem Gambling — New Zealand government information on problem gambling services and policy.

A Word from Flint

The Prism Reach is not going anywhere. The gems will still be orbiting when you get back. Step away whenever you need to — no rush, no proving anything, no stakes. The corridors light up just the same whether you have been gone five minutes or five months. Take care of yourself first. That is the only rule that matters.