BetHog has successfully completed a $10 million Series A funding round, announcing the launch of Sentient Studios, a B2B provider that facilitates the integration of AI-powered dealers into live casino experiences. Founded in early 2024 by the team behind FanDuel, BetHog operates as a crypto casino and sportsbook, attracting a digital-asset investor base anchored by RockawayX, which aligns with targeting crypto-friendly and Web3 audiences.
The funding round was co-led by Will Ventures and RockawayX, raising BetHog's total funding to $16 million. The round also saw participation from PCV, 6MV, Bullpen Capital, and Advancit Capital. According to a statement released on Wednesday, the new capital will enhance the capabilities of BetHog's AI live dealers and expedite the global rollout of Sentient Studios to operators.
Sentient Studios aims to disrupt the traditional live dealer model that has relied on human croupiers and third-party studios. The platform lowers entry barriers for operators by functioning on a pure revenue-share basis with no upfront costs. Unlike conventional setups, Sentient Studios offers increased flexibility, allowing operators to scale tables dynamically, customize dealer personas and branded environments, and ensure continuous gameplay. It also supports multiple languages to broaden the potential player base.
Central to BetHog's offering is its AI blackjack dealer, named Sunny, which launched in October 2025 and is currently available in 12 languages, with plans to introduce Baccarat and Roulette later this year. "We’ve tested our basic AI dealer over the past six months and have discovered that it is 10x more popular than its live dealer equivalent. In addition, we’ve seen better retention and player satisfaction," stated Nigel Eccles, CEO and co-founder of BetHog.
However, the adoption of AI dealer technology comes with its challenges. The live casino sector has traditionally focused on authentic physical setups, with players valuing real dealers and equipment for establishing trust. Additionally, strict regulatory oversight exists in certain jurisdictions, requiring operators to address issues of game integrity, data privacy, and transparency. Observers have also noted concerns regarding copyright and intellectual property surrounding synthetic alternatives, which operators must resolve contractually before launching to the market.
