Stake vs A23 (Ace2Three): Platform Comparison 2026
A23 (Ace2Three) launched in 2007 as India's first online rummy platform. Here's how this pioneer compares with Stake in the current regulatory climate.
⚡ Quick Verdict
A23 was one of India's pioneering rummy platforms but is currently fighting the 2025 RMG ban in the Supreme Court. Head Digital Works (A23's parent company) is among the lead petitioners challenging the constitutionality of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act. While the legal battle continues, Stake remains operational as an offshore platform.
| Feature | Stake | A23 (Ace2Three) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | ||
| Status (March 2026) | ||
| Welcome Bonus | ₹1 Crore Leaderboard | ₹10,000 welcome bonus (inactive) |
| Rummy Variants | Indian Rummy (13-card) | Points, Pool & Deals Rummy |
| Payment Methods | Crypto / UPI / Bank Transfer | UPI / Paytm / Cards (inactive) |
| Withdrawal Speed | Instant (crypto) | 24-48 hours (when operational) |
| Min Deposit | ~₹100 equivalent | ₹25 |
| Player Base | Growing (offshore) | 2 crore+ users |
| Mobile App | Mobile-optimised web app | Android & iOS native apps |
| RNG Certification | Provably fair system | iTech Labs certified |
| Unique Feature | Crypto payouts, instant withdrawals | India's oldest platform (est. 2007) |
| Licence | Curaçao (offshore) | India-based (Head Digital Works) |
Current Status & the Constitutional Challenge
A23 (Ace2Three), operated by Head Digital Works, holds a unique position in the current crisis. Rather than simply shutting down, Head Digital Works is actively challenging the constitutionality of the 2025 Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act in the Supreme Court of India.
Their legal arguments centre on:
- Article 19(1)(g): The fundamental right to practise any profession or carry on any trade or business
- Prior Supreme Court precedent: Multiple rulings recognising rummy as a game of skill, not gambling
- Overbreadth: The law bans all real-money online games regardless of skill, contradicting established legal distinctions
The hearing, initially scheduled for January 2026, is ongoing as of March 2026. A favourable ruling could reopen the entire Indian online gaming market. See our complete legality guide for details.
In the meantime, Stake operates as an offshore platform with a Curaçao licence, remaining accessible to Indian users.
Platform Heritage
A23 launched in 2007 as India's very first online rummy platform - a full decade before most competitors. It built a reputation for fair play, robust anti-collusion systems, and one of the largest rummy tournament circuits in India.
Stake is a newer entrant to the Indian Rummy space, bringing global gaming expertise and cryptocurrency infrastructure from its broader gaming platform.
Bonuses & Promotions
Stake offers a ₹1 Crore monthly leaderboard with continuous promotions. Use promo code NEWBONUS when signing up.
A23 offered up to ₹10,000 welcome bonus - one of the most generous in the Indian market - plus daily freeroll tournaments and loyalty rewards. These are currently inactive pending the legal outcome.
Game Variety
A23 supported all major rummy variants (Points, Pool 101/201, Deals) with a wide range of stakes and regular tournament schedules.
Stake focuses on Indian Rummy (13-card) with straightforward gameplay and clean UI.
Final Verdict
A23 is one of India's most important gaming companies, and its legal challenge could reshape the entire industry. If the Supreme Court rules in favour of skill gaming operators, A23 would likely be among the first to resume operations.
Until that happens, Stake remains the operational alternative for real-money Indian Rummy. Players should be aware of the legal complexities of using offshore platforms.
T&Cs apply. 18+ only. Stake operates under a Curaçao licence as an offshore platform. Real-money online gaming is currently prohibited in India under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025. Using offshore platforms may carry legal risks. See our legality guide. Play responsibly.