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G2E PREVIEWS I NOVOMATIC IN AMERICA I ONLINE GAMING I MACAU
October 2012
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CONTENTS OCTOBER 2012 www.casinointernational-online.com 4 NEWS Editor’s letter t’s here again, that annual trip 12 STATESIDE to Vegas which, despite Macau’s Sharon Harris brings the US news massive revenues, remains the Ispiritual home of gaming for everyone in the industry. 14 LATINO AMERICA It’s always interesting to note the Ricki Chavez Munoz looks at this subtle changes in Vegas year on year, and the not-so- gaming hotspot to bring all the news subtle ones; I love seeing where all the different visitors are from. Recent years have seen a massive surge in Canadian tourists thanks to the strong Canadian dollar against the US dollar. This year? Who knows; with the 22 MACAU BUSINESS economic slump ongoing in so many countries, it’s any- The pick of the bunch from Asia’s finest body’s guess. Looking to business magazine Jon Bruford, Managing Editor Advance your [email protected] +44 1584 877177 bottom line? 28 AGI IN THE USA Novomatic make inroads into the US www.casinointernational-online.com/facebook www.casinointernational-online.com/twitter with key company figure Jens Halle You designed the answer. MEI has made 32 G2E PREVIEWS it possible with Who’s where and what they’ve got to show you at possibly the world’s biggest gaming show MEI has redefined expectations of note acceptors yet again with 66 ONLINE SC Advance. Enhancements Matt Broughton brings the latest news were driven by customer and features from the world of online requests to improve upon core and mobile gaming measures of performance— acceptance, speed and security— p28: AGI’s new adventure and do so in a manner that is backwards compatible with the existing installed base. By maximizing the number of street-grade notes accepted, while simultaneously increasing the security against counterfeit notes, the MEI SC Advance is a step forward on the most important measure…operator Circulation Enquiries: Managing Editor: Jon Bruford Publishing Director: Paul Ryder profitability. [Contact details above] [email protected] Alex Wetton Capsule Publishing Services Learn how to specify cashboxes International Editor: Ricki Chavez-Munoz Administration: Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 1202 418547 [email protected] in your property that fill up Phone: +44 (0)845 602 7390 [email protected] Fax: +44 (0)845 604 2327 faster than ever before. Stop by CORRESPONDENTS Contributing Editor: Barnaby Page USA correspondent: Sharon Harris booth #4041 during G2E or [email protected] +1 609 601 7890 contact +44 (0) 118 938 1100 [email protected] to schedule a SC Advance Online Section Editor: Matt Broughton [email protected] demonstration. Subscriptions: +44 (0)1622 687031 [email protected] © Copyright: All materials in this publication remain the copyright of Datateam Published by: Proven performance. Business Media Ltd and no part of it may be reproduced without the written Datateam Business Media Ltd Increased profits. permission of the proprietors. London Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME16 8LY meigroup.com A request to insert an advertisement is deemed to be an acceptance of Datateam Tel: +44 (0)1622 687031 Business Media Ltd’s conditions of trading, copies of which are available on request. Fax: +44 (0)1622 757646
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NEWS
IN BRIEF
Two gaming titans A HOLE LOT The 14th annual AGEM/AGA Golf Classic, presented by JCM Global, raised $133,000 – a clash over Wynn record figure for a single year. AGEM has now renewed its sponsorship Founder, biggest investor exchange allegations until 2014.
The war of words between Steve donation it made to a public LADY IN LUCK The Supreme Court of Wynn and the former largest university in Macau at a time when Pennsylvania has approved the shareholder in his NASDAQ-traded the company was seeking local state’s Gaming Control Board Wynn Resorts has stepped up with a government approval to open a licensing of a casino at Nemacolin new round of accusations and casino. That donation is currently Woodlands Resort in Fayette County. counterclaims. under investigation by federal and Lady Luck Nemacolin will be operated Earlier this year Wynn Resorts state authorities and has resulted in by Isle of Capri. took back the stock belonging to multiple lawsuits against the Japanese Pachinko tycoon Kazuo company. SAILING AWAY Gaming management Okada’s Aruze USA — around 20 per Characterising Wynn’s HK$1bn systems provider Iverson Gaming cent of Wynn, worth $2.9bn — after ($135m) donation to the University of Systems has partnered with game stating him “unsuitable” to be a Macau Development Foundation as developer Acres 4.0 to market tablet shareholder under Nevada gaming “suspicious”, in part because a gaming technology internationally. law. Wynn alleges that Okada gave trustee of that foundation “has a Their first focus will be on cruise more than $100,000 in cash and position in the Macau government ships, where Iverson’s Slotmaster gifts to gaming regulators in the which enables him to influence the casino management system is Philippines and their families. issuance of gaming licences”, it already installed by a number of Now, Okada and Aruze have struck notes that Okada was the sole board operators. Acres will provide its suite back with an open letter to Wynn member to vote against the of mobile casino games. shareholders that all but accuses donation, and suggests that this was Wynn itself of corruption. the reason the Wynn board ousted BALLY ALLY FutureLogic’s PromoNet Says the letter: “In the last year, him. couponing system has passed tests the value of Wynn Resorts Common As “a step toward restoring to ensure that it can be integrated Stock has plummeted by almost 30 investor confidence”, Okada and with Bally Technologies’ Slot per cent. We believe that current and Aruze also included in the letter two Management System and Casino potential investors in the company nominations for election to the board Management System. Separately, have lost confidence in the of directors at Wynn’s annual general FutureLogic has also partnered with company's management and the meeting at the beginning of Global Cash Access to develop board. November. cashless gaming systems for the “We further believe that this loss Wynn’s response was to say: North American gaming market. of confidence has resulted from a “Aruze has not been a stockholder of history of poor corporate governance Wynn Resorts since 18 February NOT SO BAD REALLY Annual net profit at and questionable actions under the 2012 when its shares were Echo Entertainment fell 81 per cent direction of Stephen Wynn, Chairman redeemed by the Wynn Board after a to AUD42m ($44m), but the of the board and Chief Executive lengthy, third-party investigation Australian casino operator stressed Officer of the company, much of it uncovered prima facie evidence of that this did not present a true driven by Mr. Wynn's personal improper conduct under the Foreign picture of its performance because financial and control goals. Corrupt Practices Act by Mr. Okada, the figure is distorted by its recent “Recently, the company has come Universal Entertainment and Aruze in demerger from Tabcorp. Earnings under scrutiny for a questionable their dealings with Philippine officials. before interest and tax excluding “This most recent filing is a certain items, down 39 per cent, Okada was regrettable attempt to divert reflected consumer caution, slower attention from the issues facing Mr. growth at The Star in Sydney, and a the only Wynn Okada and Aruze. Given the fact that lower win rate in its VIP business, Aruze was ejected seven months ago said the firm, which also has three board member to as a Wynn shareholder based on properties in Queensland. conduct unacceptable for a gaming vote against the licensee, it has absolutely no rights LOYALTY ROYALTY Caesars as a shareholder to nominate Entertainment’s Total Rewards loyalty donation directors and its invalid nominations programme has received an award have been rejected on this basis.” from loyalty specialist Colloquy that to a Macau Whoever comes out on top in recognises schemes which improve these salvoes of allegation, it seems financial or customer performance university like the lawyers, at least, will get rich. and competitive advantage.
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NEWS Driving casino customer loyalty, the Ghanaian way... At La Palm Casino, the regular promotional programme for locals and visitors includes a 4x4 for one lucky gamer Food and beverage, entertainment, and accommodation are common enough comps used by casinos to reward their customers. But how about giving away a 4x4 to raise some eyebrows? A Renault Duster was the prize at a party for patrons held by La Palm Casino in Accra, Ghana, where General Manager Mert Caliskan promised more attention-grabbing customer rewards in the future. Other events there include weekly promotions and theme night parties, attended both by Accra residents and by guests at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel where the casino is located. The nine-year-old venue on the Atlantic coast of Ghana’s capital and largest city has four American Roulette tables, four Poker tables, two Blackjack tables, and a Baccarat table. The floor also features 50 video slots as well as an eight-station multiplayer Roulette game from Novomatic. Macau wakes up, smells the coffee Slowing year-on-year growth doesn’t mean the Asian gaming capital needs to worry. But does Las Vegas?
Macau may be getting normal. Santarelli, while his counterpart at Stifel 17 per cent in July to break past the $1bn That’s the conclusion some analysts are Nicolaus Capital Markets, Steven Wieczynski, mark. The Las Vegas Strip was the big gainer, drawing from a slowing of growth in the Asian suggested that the mass market might soon with revenue up 27.5 per cent over July 2011 to gaming hot spot, which is starting to find that become more important to Macau’s nearly $600m. double-digit year-on-year revenue growth is no development than the VIPs. But as we reported last month, although longer a given. The opening this spring of the first phase in gross gaming revenue in Nevada began to grow Gaming revenue there grew just 1.5 per cent the Sands Cotai Central could play a part in again in fiscal 2011 after three years of decline, in July – the slowest year-on-year increase since this, he predicted. “Although VIP play drove the that recovery does not appear to have 2009, according to the Chinese territory’s early stages of the Macau growth story too, we maintained its pace through this year. Indeed, Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau – believe the mass market offers equally as during the first half of this year, only the and then 5.5 per cent in August to MOP26.1bn impressive growth prospects,” Wieczynski was performance of slots and sportsbooks had ($3.3bn). quoted as saying. prevented falling table figures from dragging Even in June the 12.2 per cent growth rate overall revenue into decline. was, while more like what Macau’s used to, Now July’s Baccarat performance appears to distinctly short of the 15.3 per cent consensus The inevitable brakes be reversing that trend, at least on the Strip. prediction by market analysts. "We believe monthly numbers were mixed with Part of that slowdown could be due to a are being applied solid headline results being driven by very typhoon in the region as well as to caution strong Baccarat results and partially offset by about the economy among the Chinese visitors to the territory’s lacklustre slot and non-Baccarat table who form Macau’s core customer base, but it’s revenue growth volumes," JP Morgan gaming analyst Joe Greff also mooted that a growth rate which couldn’t was quoted as saying. "All in all, we believe last for ever has had the inevitable brakes put July's results point to a continued uneven on. “The introduction of additional non-gaming recovery on the Las Vegas Strip." And operators are starting to feel that amenities and more varied hotel price point And at the Nevada Gaming Control Board, deceleration. At Hong Kong-listed Wynn Macau, options allows operators to attract a more Senior Research Analyst Michael Lawton said: for example, second quarter revenue fell 7.1 diverse pool of guests to the market, in turn "Ultimately, the goal is to have a nice blend of per cent. serving as a stable and compelling long-term mass-market volume and high-end Baccarat But the Macau boom is far from over, even if growth catalyst.” play." it is moderating. In Nevada, meanwhile, there are other Even if that wasn’t achieved, “it was still a “We find the results to be encouraging given questions over the significance of revenue billion-dollar month", he added. But the the difficult year-over-year VIP comparisons,” figures. question remains whether that was a blip or an said Deutsche Bank gaming analyst Carlo Baccarat helped lift casino revenue a heady indication that good times are coming back.
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NEWS If you build it, will they come? US casino development continues from coast to coast despite economic woes
The spectres of economic gloom, political uncertainty to Caesars’ adjacent Linq retail/dining/entertainment and e-gaming don’t seem to be discouraging casino development, and new food and beverage outlets. development in the U.S., on sites new and old alike. On the other side of the country, meanwhile, MGM For example, Caesars Entertanment is rebranding the Resorts plans to invest $800m in building its equivalent Imperial Palace on the Las Vegas Strip as The Quad of The Linq in Springfield, Massachussetts. The company Resort & Casino. Work starts early in November, with the says its plan “envisions a revived Main Street area with renaming due to be fully implemented before Christmas people walking along vibrant tree-lined streets overflowing and renovation of the casino floor and other public areas with restaurant choices, a variety of shopping options for finished at the end of next year. everyone in the family, an outdoor stage, movie “As we renovate and modernise the property, it was theatres...and a hotel that all respect and feed off of the only appropriate that we also update the name,” said area’s existing iconic architecture”. Rick Mazer, the venue’s Oh, and a casino too, with 89,000 square feet of MGM will President. “This property has gaming space. always been known as a hub of It doesn’t stop there. Recently-opened Maryland Live!, invest social activity, where anyone for instance, has installed its final slots and electronic can come relax and have a table games, giving it a total of 4750 slot positions to $800m good time. We want to further make it the third-largest commercial casino in the US by enhance that feeling of fun and that measure...and Maryland legislators have also connectivity. We think the name, The Quad, really approved in principle a sixth casino in the state, in Prince embodies those sentiments.” George’s County near Washington. “Historically, this resort has had a very lively, Elsewhere, Mississippi regulators have given the go- welcoming appeal and we want to continue to build upon ahead to a casino resort in Gulfport being developed by those qualities,” added Tariq Shaukat, Chief Marketing Rotate Black; the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Officer at Caesars Entertainment. “The Quad will be a have secured $825m in funding for the development of social and spirited environment where our guests, their new Graton Resort & Casino near San Francisco, dressed up or dressed down, will find what they need.” partnering with Station Casinos; and in Louisiana, What that means in practice is a redesigned interior Pinnacle Entertainment has opened its L’Auberge Casino with more modern decor, a further 45,000 square feet of Hotel Baton Rouge — delayed a few days by Hurricane gaming space including a promenade bar with integrated Isaac. Seems it takes a natural disaster to stem the AV technology, a new entrance, a pedestrian connection flood of new locations. LV Sands chooses Regulator ponders Madrid for Eurovegas Rank/Gala takeover Barcelona loses out to capital It’d leave just two big operators in UK
Las Vegas Sands has opted for Madrid rather than Rank Group’s £205m ($334m) takeover of British casino Barcelona as the location of its $22bn “Eurovegas” operator Gala Coral has been referred to the country’s project. Competition Commission, which will determine whether it “Barcelona is an outstanding tourism destination and reduces competition unacceptably before it is allowed to choosing Madrid over Barcelona was not an easy go ahead. selection,” Chairman Sheldon Adelson said. Rank currently has 34 casinos in Britain under the The decision could be a coup for Madrid in attracting Grosvenor and G brands, while Gala has a further 23. foreign tourists, who currently flock to Barcelona in The takeover would give the combined firm a 40 per cent greater numbers, as well as Spanish visitors. market share. The city is served by direct flights from countries At the government’s Office of Fair Trading, Senior including Algeria, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Director Ali Nikpay said the deal would leave Britain with Republic, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, just two large casino operators, Rank and Genting, and Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Luxembourg, Morocco, the that there would be “considerable challenges” facing any Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, other firm trying to enter the market. Sweden, Switzerland, and the UK. “This merger would represent a major consolidation No specific site has yet been chosen for the project, which could be expected to reduce competition, both which could encompass a dozen hotels and six casinos. locally and nationally. The high barriers to entry and According to Spanish reports, local government is expansion in the casino sector mean the loss of prepared to give Sands tax incentives, but will not relax competition could potentially be irreversible,” Nikpay was labour regulations or rules against indoor smoking. quoted as saying. SPIELO:Layout 1 18/09/2012 13:27 Page 1 p10 news extra:Layout 1 21/09/2012 13:13 Page 34
NEWS EXTRA Barcelona gears up for huge new casino project Madrid has won the battle for EuroVegas – but Barcelona’s not done yet. Innovate Gaming asks the questions…
he race between Madrid and came just days after unofficial reports Barcelona for Sands’ 16bn EuroVegas surfaced that Sheldon Adelson decided to project came to an end last month, take his EuroVegas project to Madrid. as the Las Vegas-based operator The Barcelona World initiative calls for land construction in that sector,” stated a Tagreed with government officials to next to the Port Adventura theme park in government official. select the nation’s capital. Barcelona now Tarragona to be transformed into six themed A total of six casino hotels housing 12,000 announces plans for a rival 4.8bn Euro casino tourist complexes depicting the cultures of rooms, along with restaurants, convention complex that local authorities hope will attract Europe, the US, China, Brazil, Russia and India. centres and entertainment amenities is 10 million visitors annually. The costal region of Tarragona is located one expected to open in late 2016, and create After months of secret negotiations, Spain’s hour south of Barcelona city centre and where 20,000 jobs. Whereas EuroVegas will focus on government of Catalonia unveiled plans for its a small hub of gaming vendor’s Spanish gaming by creating a mini-Las Vegas strip, new entertainment and gaming destination operations are based. Barcelona World will become the largest leisure dubbed ‘Barcelona World’. The announcement Largely funded by Spanish entrepreneur complex in Europe. Enrique Bañuelos’ real This has helped sway public opinion, with estate firm Veremonte, press and various citizens’ groups in Barcelona the 450-hectre complex and Madrid in uproar over EuroVegas, due to its will be run by the predictable mass of casinos and gaming facilities. regional government in And it comes when Spain’s heavily indebted collaboration with La northeast region of Catalonia is in need of a Caixa bank, which owns severe economic boost and job creation. the land. Although, As it is to be located on land with legal status “nothing has been for immediate urban development, “the speed of signed, we just have an execution of this project is greater than any other agreement between the that could be on the table, not only in Catalonia parties to go ahead,” but in the whole of Spain,” said Catalonia’s said a finance officer of regional and sustainability minister Lluis Recoder. the Catalan This means Veremonte can start building as soon government. as designs are final and permits approved. Xavier Adserà, CEO Tourism is one of the only industries in Spain of Veremonte, explained surviving the country’s disastrous financial the project is primarily situation. Unemployment rates are the highest based on tourism to in recent history with one in four people out of attract families and work, more than in any other European nation. gaming is an extra. Even Catalonia is the most visited region in Spain, so, each complex will with close to 14 million tourists last year. Official house a casino and the data suggests that tourism currently accounts for two new projects would 11 percent of the country’s GDP and provides bring a thriving gaming employment for about 2 million people. industry to Spain. Barcelona World will help the Catalan “We are looking for government consolidate the region as a tourist self-financing on an destination and provide fierce competition to the equity basis, which EuroVegas project, scheduled to open in phases means attracting over the next 10 years. Served by Reus, Girona investors to each of the and Barcelona airports and with good access by six complexes who will road, rail and sea, the location is excellent, also take charge of arguably better than EuroVegas in Madrid.
www.innovategaming.com
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STATESIDE Stateside Sharon Harris welcomes the next generation of dreamers, builders, planners and workers
ook, if you’ve been successful, you circumstances just as poor, she then worked at the didn’t get there on your own…I’m company for decades, as did my grandparents. I always struck by people who think, spent nine years at the business under his well, it must be because I was just so management. smart. There are a lot of smart Between 1946 and my father selling the company “Lpeople out there. It must be because I worked harder in March 1991, our company grew to about 5,000 than everybody else. Let me tell you something – vending and amusement machines in almost 2,000 there are a whole bunch of hardworking people out locations. This family operation supported thousands there. If you were successful, somebody along the of employees’ families through the years. My own line gave you some help. If you’ve got a business – family did very well, but made enormous sacrifices as you didn’t build that. Somebody else made that others chose different lifestyle paths. happen. The point is, is that when we succeed, we For my dad, seeing his name on the door and succeed because of our individual initiative, but also recognizing what came from 12- to 14-hour days because we do things together.” meant everything. He proudly recognized that he did President Barack Obama, July 13, 2012 indeed build something, rising from his poor This statement, now called the “You didn’t build childhood to realize the American Dream. that” comment, has sparked controversy across the To the President’s point, yes, government paved U.S. this election year by feeding into an existing the roads with taxpayers’ money and many people perception that Barack Obama values government helped by working hard. But, in the end, they left over business. His supporters cry foul, charging it was work every day with no worries about getting paid. Pioneering gaming taken out of context, but millions of small American My dad took the risks and sacrificed the time, living legends like Bill business owners reject that explanation. the highs and lows that come with personal private Harrah and Sam American small business is defined as those sector ownership. companies with fewer than 500 people. Of that Boyd began as group, 80% employ less than 10. These “mom and My husband Norman represents the “Baby small pop” operations are the backbone of their local Boomer”, or post-war generation’s version of that communities and are often gaming’s suppliers and story. Working jobs whenever he had time, he entrepreneurs and customers. escaped very humble Brooklyn, New York roots. casino operators in Norman put himself through law school with his $50 In 80 years of legalized American gaming, used car. Decades later, he enjoys a fine reputation as Nevada countless individuals have taken their ideas to great an accomplished New Jersey attorney. heights. Pioneering gaming legends like Bill Harrah Norman dislikes the 1970s movie “Saturday Night and Sam Boyd began as small entrepreneurs and Fever”, claiming it portrays everyone from Brooklyn as casino operators in Nevada. Across the U.S., I think of losers. Unlike Tony Manero, brilliantly played by John family enterprises like Gasser Chair, AC Slots and Travolta, who really was “going nowhere” as he Gary Platt Manufacturing, three of thousands, whose strutted his stuff to the opening Bee Gees music, innovation, savvy and hard work brought success in Norman aimed high and worked hard. the gaming industry. If my own father Stan were still with us, I could So, Mr. President, while no one lives in a vacuum, hear his reaction to the Obama statement. the world distinguishes the winners. The gaming Somewhere, he was probably screaming from that industry has wonderful stories of leaders who began great arcade in the sky. their careers as waiters and secretaries, salespeople As a poor Depression boy, whose mother even and bookkeepers. They all showed the promise and wrote to then-First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt to seek perseverance to rise in their ranks. help in finding work, my dad developed soaring To the next generation of ambitious young ambitions and the street smarts to succeed. In March, dreamers who spent their summers working multiple 1946, this 23-year-old World War II veteran opened jobs instead of tanning poolside or on the beach like our family’s Pennyland arcade in Philadelphia. He had others, I say this…don’t ever make excuses. You will 10 pinball machines and a dream. have worked hard, you will have earned it and you As they say, my mother “hitched her horse to the will be entitled to enjoy your success. The gaming right wagon” by marrying my dad. Coming from industry will be lucky to capture your talents.
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Latino America Ricki Chavez Munoz reports on what’s happening in South America
a salimos para Las Vegas donde estaremos muy bien s we go to press we are on our way to Las Vegas representados en el G2E 2012. Somos un equipo de where we shall be well represented at G2E 2012. 7 gente de comunicaciones de la empresa Datateam We’ll be 7 communicators from Datateam Busines Business Media, con tres publicaciones de la Media and 3 industry titles, Casino International Yindustria, Casino International Americano, Euroslot AAmericano, Euroslot, and this humble servant. y esta su servidora. En efecto esta división B2B de Datateam This gaming B2B division of Datateam Publishing Limited is Publishing Limited es casi un diez por ciento de la empresa con almost ten per cent of the business based south of London in sede al sur de Londres en el condado de Kent. the county of Kent. The numbers in the Las Vegas team reflect the success of Es que con el éxito de la revista regional Americano que ya se Americano, which is already amongst the leading Spanish ha colocado entre las principales de Latinoamérica en idioma language titles in Latin America, and now the company is español, ahora nos abocamos a un proyecto para la industria de working on a new project to serve the Asian region, as it Asia, que ya lidera el mundo del sector. Esto se debe a la visión consolidates an industry world leader. The development in de nuestro CEO, Parvez Kayani, quien es el “Yul Brynner” de our B2B gaming work is the vision of Parvez Kayani, CEO, our estos aprendices de magnífico. ¡Cosa más grande! “Yul Brynner”, as he leads his pack of “wanna” be magnificent onto greater things to come! Y lueguito también salimos volando para Argentina, donde Then we’ll be on our way to Argentina, where this year’s este SAGSE Buenos Aires 2012, que se lleva a cabo durante los SAGSE Buenos Aires 2012, on 13-15 November, promises días 13 al 15 de noviembre de 2012 en el Centro Puerto great business with all the global industry leaders and also Salguero, promete muchísimo todos los lideres globales de la the presentation of the “Golden Eagle,” another genial industria; además de la presentación del “Aguila Dorada”, otra creation of Giorgio Gennari, Presidente de Monografie, genial creación de Giorgio Gennari, director de Monografie, organizors of the event. organizadores del evento, que ya fue otorgado en SAGSE Four gaming executives have already received the award in Panamá a Jens Halle, Antonio Sabaj, Alejandro Saraintaris y June at SAGSE Panama: Jens Halle, Antonio Sabaj, Alejandro Eduardo Aching, en junio pasado. Saraintaris y Eduardo Aching. The “Golden Eagle,” in recognition of lifetime achievement, is intended for gaming El premio “Aguila Dorada” es un nuevo y ambicioso proyecto personalities. A new and ambitious project from the de los organizadores de SAGSE es identificar a los 50 más organizers of SAGSE is to identify the 50 most prestigious prestigiosos managers, ejecutivos y/o personalidades más managers, executives and/or outstanding individuals working destacadas que operan en Latinoamérica para ser premiados in Latin America, to be awarded with this “Lifetime con un “Reconocimiento a la Trayectoria”. Achievement Award.” Saludos, Cheers,
Ricki. Ricki.
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LATINO AMERICA
SCJ empieza medidas contra casinos SCJ starts action against illegal casinos “payaso” Last month, SCJ sent out an official letter to all Por otro lado, siguiendo su trabajo regulativo, la SCJ notificó municipalities in Chile setting out the basis upon which skill qua ha emitido un oficio a todas las municipalidades del país machines must be determined before they license such con el objetivo de darles a conocer el contexto que deben tener gaming devices for operation in games halls, according to the en cuenta al momento de determinar el otorgamiento de una current law that regulates the licensing of such devices. patente municipal que habilite la explotación de una máquina de juego electrónica de destreza, sin que ello implique una During the last few years games halls have opened up and transgresión al ordenamiento jurídico vigente. down the country, operating so called skill machines licensed by local municipalities without the knowledge to determine En Chile, existe una proliferación de salas de juego con whether they are indeed arcade type gaming devices or máquinas electrónicas de pago limitado, que son operadas con amusement machines used for limited pay gambling. In Chile una licencia municipal para máquinas de destreza, al estilo many unscrupulous operators cheat and dazzle the authorities pinball. En efecto estas salas de juego se operan bajo estilos operating slot machines under the guise of skill games in similares a las salas de tragamonedas de otros países, y en este pseudo slots halls, called casinos payaso (clown). país se conocen peyorativamente como casinos “payaso” por la forma como burlan a las autoridades. According to the Casino Law of 2005, gambling devices exploitation is illegal in Chile, unless granted a permit Conforme a lo establecido en la Ley del 2005, la explotación through special legislation or government acts, such as de los juegos de azar es –en principio– ilícita, salvo que una ley lotteries, horse racing and casinos. In the specific case of slot especial permita su desarrollo y explotación, como es el caso de machines, their operation outside licensed casinos is illegal las loterías, la hípica y los casinos de juego, entre otros. En el except those authorized by Law 19.995 of 2005, or the older caso particular de las máquinas de azar que operan fuera de los municipal casinos legislation. casinos autorizados, ya sea por la Ley N° 19.995 o por leyes especiales (casinos municipales), su explotación es ilegal.
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LATINO AMERICA
Government of Buenos Aires Province to Buenos Aires estatiza el control de las control online betting apuestas online El gobernador de la provincia de Buenos Aires, Daniel Scioli Buenos Aires Province governor, Daniel Scioli, confirmed confirmó que se estatizará el control del juego online ante la the termination of the concession held by local company decisión de no renovar la concesión de este servicio a la Boldt for the control of online gaming in the capital region of empresa Boldt que vence en noviembre próximo. Anunciando Argentina. The current contract runs out in November this que el presidente del Grupo Bapro Santiago Montoya se hará year. Scioli also announced that Grupo Bapro president, cargo de la estatización del control de las apuestas online en Santiago Montoya will take charge of controlling online Buenos Aires, Scioli que ya ha realizado varias reuniones para gaming in Buenos Aires, using a system already functioning in llevar a cabo “la estatización”, usando como ejemplo un sistema Chile. que se usa en Chile. While the new system is being designed, Jorge Rodriguez, Según fuentes, el titular del Instituto Provincial de Lotería y president of Buenos Aires’s Instituto Provincial de Lotería y Casinos, Jorge Rodríguez, ha iniciado reuniones con técnicos de Casinos has started a series of meetings with technicians from la Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP) para agilizar los the University of La Plata. It is hoped this will speed up the preparativos que permitan estatizar el sistema que capta las system that will control betting from some 3,750 lottery apuestas que se realizan en las 3.750 casas de quinielas retailers in the province. provinciales. The contract that controls online gaming in Buenos Aires La semana pasada, Scioli decidió frenar la licitación para la province has a current yearly value of around US$1 million captación de apuestas online, que mueve $1.500 millones de for Boldt subsidiary Boldt Gaming S.A., which has had the pesos (US $325,7 millones) al año, a cargo de Boldt desde 1993 contract since 1993. Boldt paid the Buenos Aires province mediante renovaciones de contrato. Por ese servicio, la 5.25% of gaming turnover estimated at US$325.7 million per Provincia de Buenos Aires abona a Boldt Gaming S.A., unos 360 annum. millones de pesos al año, a cambio del 5,25% de lo apostado.
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LATINO AMERICA
IGT celebrated 10,000 slots in Mexico
In honour of the installation of 10,000 video slot machines in Mexico, International Game Technology (IGT) hosted a seminar on business strategies and emerging trends in the gaming industry for its Mexican customers. It was held on 29 August, at Hacienda de los Morales, in Mexico City.
Toni Martinez, IGT area vice president, Latin America, said: “IGT’s continued commitment to this important market can been seen across the country as we place our 10,000th IGT game in Mexico. We also are excited to offer an informative seminar, giving our customers the latest news on trends, strategies and best practices in the industry.”
The seminar highlighted how IGT is dedicated to its IGT celebra la instalación de su Customer First principle, emphasizing that a deep diezmilésima slot en México understanding of operators’ daily demands allows the Con motivo de la celebración de las 10.000 slots de video Company to provide the many solutions Mexican casino instaladas en México, International Game Technology (IGT) operators need to drive success on their casino floors. The organizó un seminario sobre estrategias comerciales y event also included discussions on IGT’s MegaJackpots tendencias emergentes en la industria del juego para sus product launches, IGT Systems and sbX® solutions in the clientes mexicanos, el 29 de agosto en Hacienda de los Morales, gaming industry; as well as future global gaming trends with en el Distrito Federal de México. key personnel from IGT.
Para tal ocasión, Toni Martinez, Vicepresidente de área de IGT para América Latina, dijo: “La instalación de nuestro diezmilésimo juego en México es testimonio de nuestro compromiso permanente con este importante mercado y puede comprobarse en todo el territorio. Y es con mucho entusiasmo que ofrecemos un seminario informativo para compartir con nuestros clientes las últimas novedades en materia de tendencias, estrategias y mejores prácticas de la industria.”
En el seminario informativo, IGT resaltó la dedicación de al principio “El Cliente en Primer Lugar”, exponiendo sus profundos conocimientos sobre las exigencias que enfrentan los operadores a diario y la variada oferta de soluciones dirigidas a los operadores de casinos mexicanos para impulsar el éxito en las salas de sus casinos.
El evento, dirigido a una concurrida asistencia trató también sobre intercambios de ideas para los lanzamientos de productos MegaJackpots de IGT, los sistemas de IGT y las soluciones sbX® en la industria del juego; directivos clave de IGT hablaron sobre las tendencias mundiales que se prevén para la industria del juego del futuro. ALPHASTREET:Layout 1 28/08/2012 10:03 Page 1 p22-24-26 Macau:p14-18 Macau.qxd 24/09/2012 08:28 Page 14
By Luciana Leitão Rush for Russia Melco Crown looks toward Vladivostock for investment…
aming operator Melco Crown Russia”. They must also pay a fixed monthly tax of 2025, and the grant can be extended. Entertainment Ltd may be gearing US$3,500 (MOP28,000) per gaming table and Nash Dom Primorye wants the zone up to invest in Russia. The US$225 per gaming machine. “Even when you developed in three stages. It wants the first company, led by Lawrence Ho Yau combine these tax requirements, the integrated phase, entailing investment of about US$2 GLung, has shown interest in entertainment zone is still a favourable market to billion, completed by 2016, when the first investing in a new gaming and entertainment invest in,” Ms Lomakina says. casino should open. It wants the second phase zone near Vladivostok. completed by 2019 and the third by 2022. Marina Lomakina, the general director of No limits A report by Gaming Market Advisors, a Nash Dom Primorye, a state-owned company Consulting firm Union Gaming Group says casino market research firm, says the that will manage the Vladivostok entertainment the authorities in Vladivostok are offering casino entertainment zone could rake in annual zone, confirmed Melco Crown’s interest to operators a good proposition. “The region seems revenue of between US$2 billion and US$7 Macau Business. Melco Crown clinched a deal to be gaming-friendly from a development billion once fully developed. recently to enter the Philippine gaming market standpoint, and we expect operators to give it a – its first venture outside of Macau. look, given the low tax rate and proximity to [sic] Leading centre Malaysia’s Genting Group has also shown Asia,” Union Gaming Group analyst Bill Lerner Nash Dom Primorye suggests that interest in the development, says Ms Lomakina. says in a research report. prospective investors include non-gaming Genting operates casinos in Malaysia and Macau taxes casino gross gaming revenue at a recreational amenities in their plans. “While Singapore and recently bought a stake in rate of 39 percent. Singapore taxes VIP revenue casino gaming is legal in the zone, we are Australian casino operator Echo Entertainment at a rate of 5 percent and mass-market revenue looking for concepts that focus on tourism Group Ltd. at a rate of 15 percent, and levies a goods and development,” says Ms Lomakina. The aim is to Nash Dom Primorye issued a request for services tax on both at a rate of 7 percent. have non-gaming revenue make up a large slice concepts recently, which invites gaming Nash Dom Primorye will set no limit on the of the pie. companies to submit ideas for the first phase maximum area of a casino or arcade devoted to Corruption and political instability in Russia of the development of the zone. The deadline gaming but will set a minimum area. “Gaming may make prospective investors think twice. for submission of proposals was September premises in casinos shall be not less than 800 “Every effort is being made to ensure that 21. Discussions with interested parties begin square metres. Gaming premises in amusement global investors are confident in the business late October. arcades shall be not less than 100 square environment,” Ms Lomakina says. Ms Lomakina says prospective investors from metres,” the request for concepts says. The entertainment zone, first announced in Macau, Russia, Hong Kong and Singapore have Ms Lomakina says there will be no limit on 2010, will be 50 kilometres north of Vladivostok shown interest in getting a foothold. Nash Dom capital expenditure by investors. Casino and about 20 kilometres from the city’s new Primorye has appointed Las Vegas’s Galaviz & operators will be allowed to compete in offering international airport. It is a mountainous region Co as lead strategic adviser for the project. credit to gamblers. bordering the mainland and North Korea. One of the attractions of the project for Nash Dom Primorye is asking prospective Nash Dom Primorye is aiming to attract gaming companies is that, unlike in Macau and investors to suggest how junket operators should tourists from the mainland, South Korea, Japan Singapore, in the Vladivostok entertainment be regulated. Russia has no law on junkets. and the United States. Vladivostok is about two zone no tax will be levied on gross gaming The company envisages up to 12 casinos in hours flying time from Seoul and Tokyo. revenue. Ms Lomakina says casino operators “will the entertainment zone. It will give gaming Russians should also contribute to gaming pay the usual taxes, as any other business in companies control of the land at least until revenue.
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MACAU BUSINESS
by Emanuel Graça Speck in the ocean Taiwan is close to legalising casinos after approving the establishment of gambling facilities. Macau Business reports…
aiwan has taken an important step towards Matsu’s government says a casino would attract the opening of its first legal casino after a investors and tourists, bringing in funds much referendum in Matsu recently approved the needed to improve the economy and infrastructure. establishment of gambling facilities. But Any casino there is expected to cater mainly to Tany casino on the tiny archipelago will be mainland Chinese, like Macau’s casinos. Matsu is only so restricted by geography and lack of transport half an hour by ferry from Fujian province. “People infrastructure that it is unlikely to deprive Macau’s that are looking to build casinos anywhere in Taiwan casinos of much business, experts say. are eyeing Chinese tourists,” says Anita Chen, the Residents of Matsu, an island group in the Taiwan managing director in Taipei of United States lobbying Strait controlled by Taipei, voted 57 percent to 43 firm Park Strategies, and an expert on the gaming percent in favour of casino gambling. In 2009, industry. Taiwan’s legislature passed a law allowing casinos on Macquarie Equities Research wrote in a note to islands in the Strait, if residents approved them in investors by analysts Gary Pinge and Elaine Lai: referendums. The aim was for gaming to spark “Matsu is an example of regional competition as development. jurisdictions with Macau-style proximity to the But later that year the residents of Penghu, another mainland try to compete for Chinese gamblers. island group, voted against having a casino. Their “This may bring a risk to long-term returns on verdict is binding for three years, after which another future Cotai projects.” referendum may be held. The three years expired this summer. Best defence While Penghu has good infrastructure and a But most analysts say the opening of a casino in healthy tourism industry, Matsu, with a population of Matsu would do Macau’s gaming industry little harm. about 10,000, is being hit much harder by the Union Gaming Research forecasts it would be gradual drawdown of troops in the Taiwan Strait. The unlikely to have much effect here. garrison there numbered 50,000 in the Cold War but “Macau’s exposure might be no more than a few it is now down to just 3,000 troops – reflecting, in gross gaming revenue basis points,” it says in a part, better relations between Taipei and Beijing. research note by analysts Grant Govertsen and
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MACAU BUSINESS
Felicity Chiang. Tam Pak Yuen has said the government here is not Union Gaming Research explains that Beijing holds worried by the prospect of casinos opening elsewhere the key to the success of any casino in Matsu. It says in East Asia. success depends on how easy it is for residents of He told reporters recently that Macau could Fujian to get there. maintain its level of gross gaming revenue and sustain The consulting firm expects one or perhaps two further development of its casino industry even with casino resorts in Matsu. “Without a concentration of more competition. He recalled the government had casinos, which give customers numerous gaming even acted to cool the growth of the industry here by options, we would think this will limit some appeal.” capping the number of live gaming tables. Investment house Nomura also believes that The head of the Macau Travel Industry Council, gaming in Matsu will have little effect on Macau, Andy Wu Keng Kuong, says casinos in Taiwan are given the poor accessibility of the island and Beijing’s unlikely to poach business from Macau. The critical restrictions on the number of mainland visitors it mass of the gaming industry here is an important allows to Taiwan. advantage, he notes. Goldman Sachs has a similar view. In a note by Before Taiwan can have any casinos, its government analysts Simon Cheung and Janet Lu, Goldman Sachs must legislate for them. Even the proponents of gaming says, in the long run, the legalisation of casinos in concede that a thriving casino industry is years away. Taiwan may even mean opportunities for Macau operators to expand. Slow boat to Matsu Union Gaming Research expects Beijing to have its Yang Sui-sheng, head of Lienchiang County, says it say about that. will take at least until 2015 before a casino opens. “While we think the answer would ultimately be an “We don’t know when the government will start ‘okay’, we would think any Macau operator is likely to issuing gambling licences,” he admits. “We hope it’ll seek Beijing’s approval,” it says. be as soon as possible, so the entire process can be Several Macau gaming companies have shown vague completed within a period of three to five years.” interest in investing in Taiwan if it were to legalise Ms Chen of Park Strategies thinks this schedule is casinos. But none has openly expressed enthusiasm about right. She says Taiwan’s cabinet is still for Matsu since the referendum was held there. considering a gambling bill, but that it could be passed within 2013. Too big to care After that, it could take another year for the SJM Holdings Ltd chief executive Ambrose So Shu government to invite bids to run a casino and award a Fai said Matsu’s position and its lack of supporting contract, and another three years after that to build infrastructure meant it would need time to build up a and open the property. gaming industry. Mr So indicated that SJM is Weidner Resorts president and chief executive interested in expanding in this part of the world but William Weidner – a former Las Vegas Sands Corp said it was still collecting information about Matsu executive – said the Taiwan government should speed and had yet to make any decision. up the licensing process. His company is considering MGM China Holdings Ltd chief executive Grant investing in a casino in Matsu, having lobbied in Bowie said his company was following up recent favour of one during the referendum campaign. developments in Taiwan. He said it would wait for For now, the Taiwan government has given the more details before making any decision. Ministry of Transportation and Communications the Secretary for the Economy and Finance Francis authority to regulate casinos. p27:Layout 1 24/09/2012 09:47 Page 1 p28-30 Novo US:Layout 1 21/09/2012 13:17 Page 34
NOVOMATIC IN THE US Americas ‘hub’ for Novomatic Novomatic has a new American subsidiary, Novomatic Americas Sales LLC, which will allow the European gaming giant to expand its installed base even further into the Americas
he creation of a new American subsidiary, trans-Atlantic move. That is an extended and re- Novomatic Americas Sales, LLC, is one energised focus by Novomatic on the region known outward sign of Novomatic’s ever- throughout central and South America simply as ‘El increasing success across the Latin Norte’: in other words, the US domestic market. TAmerican continent but also marks a The Novomatic brand has a huge attraction for US significant intention on the part of the Austrian operators, an attraction that is demonstrated by a gaming giant to achieve success across a whole large volume of sales enquiries at major trade swathe of North American jurisdictions. shows such as G2E. Satisfying those enquiries is The success of Novomatic across South America not merely an aspiration for Novomatic it is a has been, in recent years, meteoric. With a number of subsidiary companies now firmly established and proving successful in the region (Mexico, Argentina, Peru and Colombia, for example) there is now a very good reason to establish a regional ‘hub’ to co- ordinate and enhance the various activities of that company network. It therefore should perhaps not have come as a major surprise when Jens Halle, Managing Director of Novomatic’s international subsidiary Austrian Gaming Industries GmbH (AGI), Jens Halle recently announced his decision to re-locate from Austria to a newly established regional base, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Explaining the move Jens Halle commented: “What has been decided is that I will effectively ‘reverse’ the direction of what has been my travel schedule over the past few years. Since Novomatic opened up the Monticello Grand Casino and Entertainment World in San Francisco de Mostazal, close to Santiago in Chile, with Sun International and other partners, it has been necessary for me to virtually commute to Chile on a regular basis. Additionally, of course, we have our network of South American subsidiaries with which I need to keep in regular contact and help to support. Doing that from an Austrian starting point makes such travel a long and often exhausting process but, as many gaming industry companies have found, Florida is the natural gateway to the entire Latin American continent.” But there is another dimension to Jens Halle’s
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NOVOMATIC IN THE US
necessity, as Jens Halle explains: “Let me put this in quality of sales, support and service that operators an historical context. It is clear that the US market have every right to expect. That means having a is a ‘must’ for the Novomatic brand. It is still, sustainable infrastructure in place from the very start. despite the growth explosion in Asia of recent Then, of course, we must consider the licensing and years, the epicentre of the international gaming product testing approvals process that, given that industry and, as an industry leader, Novomatic there are numerous States and Native American must be a force to be reckoned with there. Like tribes that all have their own individual regulations, other major manufacturers (think Aristocrat in is a huge – but vital - requirement.” Australia and, indeed, IGT in the US) Novomatic That would tend to suggest a distribution built the strong foundations of its business and its strategy for Novomatic but Halle is quick to state subsequent expansion on our original ‘home’ that this is not the case. “The distribution route is, markets; in our case Europe and particularly for us, too limiting. We are fortunate to have been Eastern Europe. building, over the past few years, an excellent It is obvious that, to effectively penetrate the huge relationship with the Fort Lauderdale, Florida, number, range and diversity of US markets an based US company, Reel Games Inc. We began that incoming manufacturer must be able to offer the relationship to help and support business in the
Reel Games’ Sean Smith and Jens Halle
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NOVOMATIC IN THE US
Sean Smith
cruise ship industry and in the Caribbean islands. coincidences! It is a question of the correct timing It proved successful and we started, some time ago, and the best way to address the opportunities that to discuss expansion in US markets. Since the exist. Novomatic is creating a hub in Florida and that beginning of this year we decided to upscale our organisation will exist to support, as its name co-operation with Reel Games to the point where suggests, all of the Americas: North and South in an they act not as a distributor but as a separate effective way. I have already described the added entity that is closely linked to Novomatic.” efficiency that will be added to our Latin American The correct terminology for this agreement is businesses and, regarding Reel Games and the US ‘Reel Games in conjunction with Novomatic’ and market, my being in Florida will create an ideal what that means is that Reel Games have control of conduit to AGI in Austria and this, I’m sure, will help their own destiny; supported and assisted by Reel Games to grow more quickly as they continue to Novomatic. Reel Games import products that are build their business. For me and for the Novomatic then assembled in Florida and sold, complete with brand, this is a win-win opportunity: one that we have Reel Games identification, in US jurisdictions where moved quickly and decisively to maximise.” Reel Games have the relevant licenses and product That Novomatic should be prominently present approvals. Novomatic support Reel Games in US markets has an undeniable logic. By building throughout the process (with the transfer of their brand through the expertise and existing product approvals, for example, plus the necessary contact base of Reel Games makes that logic even technical training and logistical assistance) and also stronger. When the ability to support and assist the give Reel Games research and development input in continent-wide network of Novomatic’s own order to maximise the products’ attraction within companies throughout the Latin American region the US market arena. is added to the mix it is clear to see why Jens Halle So far this year, Reel Games in conjunction with – supported at the highest levels within Novomatic Novomatic has exhibited at three geographically – states that this is a ‘win-win’ proposition. The diverse trade shows: NIGA in California, Southern move will hardly come as a culture shock to Halle Gaming Summit in Mississippi and, most recently, (he was educated in America) and it will not OIGA (the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association’s change his position or global responsibilities annual trade show and conference) in Oklahoma City. within AGI. As he succinctly puts it: “Getting off a Those three events have jointly proved the attraction plane and going straight to work at the Novomatic that the Novomatic brand has for American headquarters in Gumpoldskirchen is nothing new operators. They have also served as an extended ‘dress for me. As a market leader, Novomatic’s business rehearsal’ for G2E where Reel Games will, for the means that we must all be geographically third consecutive year, be present in a big way on the adaptable. What I see in this change in main Novomatic booth. circumstances is a huge opportunity, both So is it then just a coincidence that Jens Halle has personally and, of course, for the Novomatic brand. relocated to Fort Lauderdale? That raises a huge We will do it right and we will do it successfully. smile from the AGI Managing Director. “In our After all, I will simply be following our company’s business it is a wise move not to believe too much in slogan: ‘Novomatic Leads, Others Follow’!”
30 OCTOBER 2012 GLI:Layout 1 21/09/2012 08:31 Page 1 p32 WMS:Layout 1 21/09/2012 14:16 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW WMS brings over 200 games to G2E Exciting hardware and technology updates from WMS
MS’ broad portfolio of great gaming aspects of their gaming experience. content is supported by exciting hardware & technology upgrades Game Chest: a series of multi-games that separate WMS from the field. powered by the CPU-NXT2 platform WWMS’ line-up of over 200 games at available on the Bluebird2e and Bluebird xD the 2012 Global Gaming Expo (G2E) brings cabinets, and offered exclusively to our unrivaled product to our casino customers designed international markets. The Game Chest to attract new players while engaging their current multi-game supports multiple languages and ones. currencies, as well as provides an attractive, user-friendly interface. The multi-game At G2E 2012, WMS’ continued commitment to series will be available in three unique game Engaging Players. Delivering Results. will be displayed sets, each comprised of six to eight themes through a broad array of unique and dynamic featuring a mixture of proven WMS content, entertainment experiences. Highlights include: with the first game set featuring six unique themes from the player-favorite G+ Deluxe Spiderman: WMS’ second game to feature the and G+ Deluxe 5x4 series. Sensory Immersion 2.0 Motion Chair System, SPIDER-MAN slots are dual-array games with five Double Money Burst: Building on the random “Spider-Sense” features and exciting bonus proven Money Burst series, Double Money rounds featuring video and audio clips from the Burst offers twice the excitement! Two 2x2 blockbuster film trilogy. Players get up to 8 reel sets reel sets beside a 3x6 reel set create a never- spinning at up to 50x in the Free Spins Bonus, or before-seen layout offering up to 100 lines of make the most of advanced CPU-NXT3 graphics and high-volatility action. Multiple ways to trigger motion events perfectly aligned in an exciting bonus the bonus will keep players on the edge of battle with the Green Goblin. their seats, while four unique math models, graphics and audio packages offer something Game of Life: THE GAME OF LIFE game introduces for every player taste – including replicating a new way of awarding base game wins with the Bank WILDs, expanding WILDs and more! of LIFE Paytable, a unique play mechanic where any spin can increase awards that pay out on specific Gamefield xD cabinet: With two 32-inch high- spin outcomes - a way to win additional awards on definition screens powered by spectacular high- each spin! There’s also the Big Event bonus that definition graphics and enhanced performance awards credits or 1 of 3 communal bonuses! characteristics enabled by our CPU-NXT3 operating platform, this innovative cabinet for participation- KISS: Players looking for a unique take on multi- only games grabs players’ attention and delivers new array games, original game mechanics and a rockin’ game play options to enhance the gaming soundtrack need look no further - KISS slots will set entertainment experience. We will showcase this your slot floor to Rock and Roll All Nite and party platform with new, unique themes from our popular every day. A new take on multi-array base games can THE WIZARD OF OZ and MONOPOLY licensed award one, two or three bonus reel sets on any spin, brands. enhanced with low symbols removed, WILDs or WILD reels. On top of that are three exciting bonus rounds, The WMS booth will also feature some recent including the KISS Alive Bonus for an exciting new proven performers from the WMS catalog, including take on picking bonuses set to a soundtrack that’s the first motion chair game in slot history Aladdin & Hotter than Hell. the Magic Quest and new themes in the hit Colossal Reels family of video slots. My Poker: My Poker reflects extensive market, hardware and player research from WMS. The end For more information, please visit result is a video poker product that combines player- www.wms.com/now, www.youtube.com/wmsslots or proven game solutions, specialized hardware and www.twitter.com/wmsgamingnews personalization to allow players to control and extend
32 OCTOBER 2012 p33 TCSJH:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:30 Page 1
G2E PREVIEW TCSJH returns to G2E! After three years, the tables games giant is back, on stand 3817
CSJOHNHUXLEY is pleased to be In addition, multi-level event based and mystery exhibiting at this year’s G2E show in Las prizes can be employed even on games that don’t Vegas. After a break of 3 years, the normally run progressive jackpots. company will once again be showing its To see the world’s best table game products, visit Tindustry leading products such as Chipper t h e T C S J O H N H U X L E Y s ta n d N o . 3817 a t G 2 E ( o n Champ2, traditional high quality gaming tables, Harmon and Tropicana Avenue aisles). Roulette wheels, number displays and gaming layouts as well as a host of new innovative products.
Cath Burns, TCSJOHNHUXLEY Group CEO comments, “We are delighted to be back at G2E for 2012. We are focused on providing world class products that meet our customer requirements for a global market and this expo provides the perfect showcase for us.” She continues, “As part of our Group strategic plan going forward, we are committed to listening to our customers and developing new and exciting products for the future. We’re undoubtedly a company with a worldwide reach, but we aim to think global and deliver local.”
TCSJOHNHUXLEY are currently streamlining and enhancing the core product range with an emphasis on innovation. Products such as Supernova Table Bonus System, Gaming Floor Live and Tablet Roulette all feature heavily in this and will be key products on show at G2E.
Gaming Floor Live is a real-time game optimization system designed to maximize key performance areas and profitability across all games. Unlike any other product on the market, the system automatically captures live table game data, which in turn provides vital information to maximize turnover, maintain house advantage, reduce operating costs and understand opportunity costs. With the power to monitor pits remotely with local area network or wide area network connectivity, casino management can now measure key performance areas across their live tables.
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OCTOBER 2012 33 p34 Alfastreet:Layout 1 21/09/2012 14:18 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW Alfastreet caps a bright 2012 with G2E attendance Their R8 Roulette is known worldwide; see what’s new for Alfastreet at G2E
lfastreet has been an important and show. This is usually an entry point for the year and reputable gaming equipment some indicators are available for the manufacturers to manufacturer for the past 16 years, with consume. Alfastreet received a great response and a dedication and determination that has perfect customer feedback and that was followed only Amade them among the leading electronic by great sales accomplishments all around. table games manufacturers. Alfastreet’s signature R8 To name a few, Alfastreet once again ensured the Roulette has sold thousands all around the world. undisputed leading position in Asia, by placing As mentioned, Alfastreet’s approach to this numerous terminals in Singapore, Phillippines, challenging and competitive business is more than Malaysia, Vietnam and Cambodia. The great adequate and this shows in great sale results and experience and the understanding of this market is customers loyal to the brand and eager for more of keeping Alfastreet ahead in this complicated, and their top-notch products. sometimes very difficult market. To this day, Alfastreet has launched a variety of Besides Asia, Alfastreet strengthened its position in different products and games, leading with Roulette, Europe, as well as South America. closely followed by Sic Bo, Bingo, Baccarat, Poker, Furthermore, great efforts resulted with positive Black Jack, Derby, Big Wheel… results in Africa. With the help of a local partner, Alfastreet’s single terminal is conquering all of the many installations took place and there are more to major casinos and venues around the world, as it is come. Alfastreet products are all top quality so truly unique in design and its capabilities are getting certificates and approvals is generally not unmatched. Multi Game is one thing, very common difficult. on the market; however, simultaneous betting is a Among others, Alfastreet also signed an exclusive different story. This feature was invented, created and arrangement with a leading operator in South launched by Alfastreet in 2011. To this day, many of America, another one with the biggest cruise line the comapny’s competitors still struggle to follow operator – the list goes on. Alfastreet and launch a similar product. Simultaneous At this point Alfastreet looks forward to presenting betting allows the player to choose two games and itself at this year’s G2E in Las Vegas. This time is very play them at the same time at the same screen. This special as it is the first time Alfastreet will be is definitely a hit among the players, but most presented with help of a local partner. This importantly, it shows Alfastreet’s progressive thinking partnership was signed with intention to make a and truly perfect vision of the future ETG (electronic greater impact on the US market and Alfastreet is table games) development needs. more than excited to follow up. Once again, On the wings of such advanced solutions and certificates and approvals for various US jurisdictions attentive customer care and support, Alfastreet have not proven problematic for this bold company. entered 2012 with great optimism and positive Alfastreet is a shining example of a small, family- energy. This proved completely accurate as the year owned company, rising to the top through hard work, has been a success – like most years! Alfastreet dedication, honesty and capability to help shape the started the year by exhibiting at the London IGE future of gaming. “We will bring our best and brightest all of their time and dedication to product to the show. All of them are achieving this goal and the results are certified and ready to be sold in the US. inevitable. With this in mind, and the capable and Of course we will use this opportunity to motivated local partner, we are more meet up with our numerous customers, than assured next year will be the year friends and partners from all around of Alfastreet’s conquers of the US the world and we will make sure they market. stick with the number one ETG brand: Our team of dedicated people will put Alfastreet.”
34 OCTOBER 2012 isms:Layout 1 21/09/2012 09:51 Page 1 p36 abbiati-G-D:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:31 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW Abbiati returns for more success Booth 522 for the latest in roulette, RFID Chips and much more…
fter a very successful show the last Vegas is one of the most important and one of gambling destinations in the world.” year, Abbiati Casino Equipment is the biggest exhibitions in the gaming industry”, “Las Vegas is the ideal place to present exhibiting again in this year’s G2E said Giorgio Abbiati, CEO of Abbiati Casino Abbiati products and services to the decision Las Vegas show, which will be held Equipment. “Even if US is not a key market for makers from many different countries and Aat Sands Expo & Convention Abbiati Casino Equipment, it’s still a very markets, having an excellent opportunity to Center in Las Vegas this October 2 – 4. important market to be in. Especially talking personally meet our partners and customers”, The comprehensive offering of Abbiati about Las Vegas, which is one of the main had added Terry Clarke, Commercial Director products on Booth No. 5222 of the Italian manufacturer. “It is a will include all main perfect venue to demonstrate to products of the Italian visitors from North, South and manufacturer such as Central Americas’ how Abbiati gaming tables, layouts, products had continued to improve American Roulette wheels during the last year, using new and selection of accessories. innovative materials, designs, During the show Abbiati technologies and security features.” Casino Equipment will also Please take time to visit us at Booth present to the visitors a No.5222 brand new line of casino currency, and that includes new innovation chips and plaques with improved designs and new materials. “With no doubt, G2E Las Giesecke & Devrient tool up G&D promises greater productivity for casino count rooms with BPS M5
unich-based technology group result of the optimal interaction of all modules. inspection and sorting quality. Finally, the Giesecke & Devrient (G&D) is A large feeder with a capacity of 4,000 banknotes are placed in the stacker modules expanding its product portfolio banknotes, fully automatic reloading, and and automatically banded into packages to include a high-performance continuous note singling all ensure that containing 100 notes. Then groups of ten Mbanknote processing system for banknotes and TITO tickets are fed packages are shrink-wrapped to form bundles the casino market. The BPS M5 was specially uninterrupted to the sensor section, where they containing 1,000 notes. There is also the designed for use in count rooms of casinos, are checked for authenticity. An integrated option of connecting the BPS M5 to a large, which need to process large numbers of dust vacuuming unit, which keeps the sensors fully-automated final packaging system, also banknotes and TITO tickets quickly yet and machine clean, ensures uniformly high offered by G&D. precisely. Thanks to its modular design, the BPS M5 can be individually configured and adapted flexibly to meet each casino’s requirements. With a processing speed of up to 33 banknotes a second, the BPS M5 is the most powerful system in its product class worldwide. It can be set to process any currency intermixed with TITO tickets. The BPS M5 can be fitted with up to ten high-performance sensors and 20 stackers, enabling a variety of processing types in a single pass. With the use of G&D’s headers card technology the BPS M5 provides true continuous processing giving it’s users the highest throughput in the industry.. The machine’s outstanding performance is a
36 OCTOBER 2012 GIESECK DEVRIENT:Layout 1 04/09/2012 12:37 Page 1 p38 CPS-GLI:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:32 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW Future-proofing with CPS Booth 4017 for the latest in roulette, RFID Chips and much more…
rane Payment Solutions is once technology. The bill validator is available with again exhibiting at G2E in Las USB connectivity for rapid downloading of new Vegas, Stand #4017. This year’s software and all prominent gaming protocols. theme will show customers how Our handheld EPS tool simplifies the floor Cthey can future-proof their gaming technician’s day to day activities. as well as a Cash Audit and Performance report. equipment investment by using the payment Also on hand will be the fully featured Our current customers are also managing their experts’ range of cutting-edge products. CashCode one bill validator which offers a floor’s performance using the unique on- Amongst the range of products and range of benefits to Operators across the globe demand Performance report at each machine technologies on display will be CashCode, whether your business is Casinos, AWP or VLT. and plan out their maintenance accordingly, Money Controls and NRI branded products. These include: having a bill memory capacity of which helps to assign the tech resources where Nishit Shah, Product Manager says, “Based on 80+ bills, GDS readiness, singular BV head that they should be. feedback from several operators, this year we fits all models and your choice of 4 sizes of This ultimately improves machine uptime plan to have live demos of our payment cashbox options to best suit your needs. and impacts their bottom-line. oneCheck works products and value-add extensions. These The CashCode one however, doesn’t come with FutureLogic and Transact, the leading products are available on new machine alone. You can always count on the no-charge TITO printer manufacturers. purchases and ready to retrofit your current upgrade, performance tracking and cash Crane Payment Solutions can be found at gaming floor. We invite you to visit our booth management solution oneCheck to be making G2E in booth #4017 this year. Anyone with and take advantage of our Win a Tablet regular demonstrations. oneCheck is the only questions regarding products or would like to contest.” system which can offer performance tracking book a demo time at the show is urged to get Amongst the key products on display will be and cash management solutions. It is an asset in touch Jim Gabriele at Latin American favourite Ardac Elite by Money reporting and cashbox tracking management [email protected]. Controls which comes with full note scanning solution for both bills and tickets, offering capabilities and unique last bill imaging Dispute Resolution at the press of the button, GLI still leading the way “Accuracy. Integrity. Leadership. Interconnected.” All on booth 4224
or nearly 25 years, Gaming and a recent, substantial change at the Nevada environment. GLI Mobile also sends important Laboratories International, LLC has Gaming Control Board were the forces behind notifications by email and gives the user real- been the leading company in the expansion, and GLI moved swiftly to stay time tracking and project management. providing independent testing, ahead of ever-increasing demand for it services Other GLI exclusive tools include GLI Verify, Finspection and certification services in each of its labs. a hand-held tool for regulators, used to verify to the global gaming industry. Since its start GLI is different from all other test labs for devices and systems on the casino floor; Ask with one lab in Toms River, New Jersey, the many reasons, not the least of which is its GLI, a direct Q&A link to the lab; GLI Link, company has grown to 20 laboratory locations exclusive tool box, filled with award-winning which enables remote testing of devices and on six continents with more than 750 tools for regulators, suppliers and operators systems; and Point.Click.TransferSM. that allows employees. that help each group do business more suppliers to quickly and easily transfer At its core, GLI offers independent third- efficiently, most cost-effectively, with more previously certified products into jurisdictions party evaluation and certification of casino global reach and impact. around the world. gaming technology, devices and systems in Now at G2E 2012, GLI will be in booth GLI will also be discussing its world-famous addition to providing network and information #4224 discussing its award-winning GLI Regulators Roundtable, part of its exclusive and security assessments. Today, GLI is the only Mobile, its newest addition to its extensive line world-famous GLI University training program. global organization of its kind to hold U.S. and of exclusive tools for regulators and suppliers. The next event in the Roundtable series is the international accreditations for compliance GLI Mobile is a new downloadable app that Latin American/Caribbean Roundtable, which with ISO/IEC 17025, 17020 and Guide 65 allows clients to take the lab with them takes place November 12, standards for technical competence in the anywhere, right on their mobile phone or casino gaming industry. tablet. GLI Mobile is the fast and easy way for GLI has continued to grow all around the regulators and suppliers to log into GLI’s global world, recently opening a new lab in Barcelona, database, GLIAccess, all at the speed of Spain, dramatically expanding its Las Vegas lab, download, and all the palm of a hand. GLI and adding 100 employees globally. Mobile gives users 24/7 access to the lab in a The growing presence of iGaming globally highly secure and password-protected
38 OCTOBER 2012 JCM:Layout 1 18/09/2012 12:45 Page 1 p40 aristocrat:Layout 1 21/09/2012 14:20 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW ‘All together now’ for Aristocrat at G2E 2012 Invent, imagine, create – on booth 1141
ristocrat brings together a mosaic legendary games, recent proven performers and The Oasis 360 module nRich offers a of ways to grow your business. We new titles. The majority of the games showing bonusing solution that is dynamic and reaches do it with game play that engages are GLI and Nevada approved, meaning they every carded player on the floor and grows players longer, online solutions are ready for the casino floor today. every player on the floor based on their Athat build player loyalty even when individual historical play/worth. nRich your customers are away from your casino, Games increases profitability by focusing on growing mobile apps that offer incredible experiences At G2E 2012, Aristocrat is dedicating an every player in the CMS database, provides a on the go, a host of proven titles, and Oasis entire section to the beloved Mr. Cashman, personal bonusing experience to every player 360 – rated the best player tracking system by and celebrating with three incredible new game thus driving increased loyalty, increased Goldman Sachs. See how it all comes together series. Mr. Cashman is back in Cashman Live visitation and increase in players share of at G2E. We invent. We imagine. We create the debuting in the VIRIDIAN HYBRID and the wallet. world’s greatest gaming experience, every day. titles I Heart Diamonds and King 7 — fun new nCompass is the next generation hardware It begins with Aristocrat’s industry-leading stepper games with traditional symbols like platform of the Oasis 360 Sentinel, and is a math models, proven to keep players engaged cherries, bars and 7s. leap forward in direct customer communication longer on legendary classics, on new Mr. Cashman is also in the VIRIDIAN WS with advanced media delivery. nCompass technologically advanced games, and in all our cabinet with top hit base games like African utilizes an interactive media window on the cabinets. Aristocrat’s games are proven to give Dusk, Jailbird, Jewel of Enchantress, and Magic main screen of the slot machine that offers return on investment longer than any other Eyes, all with the low volatility and feature dynamic gaming content to the player. supplier, while giving players the best frequency that keeps players playing longer. nCompass is a technologically advanced engine experience. Then, Cashman Fever brings the excitement to that includes expansion capabilities, greater The experience continues beyond the casino a scorching hot new level with two exciting processing power and greater storage capability walls with our nLive play-for-fun virtual casino additional games: African Safari and Red Crane. for multi-media content. nCompass empowers a solution. nLive is a comprehensive, turnkey Aristocrat’s new Legends Series casino to deliver video or animated solution that empowers casinos to take their premieres in the VIRIDIAN WS content, provides state-of-the-art brand to players online. nLive sites are branded cabinet, with a proven performer touch-screen interactivity and displays to the casino, so the casino’s customers can appearing alongside a new deluxe player points earned in a day (or extend their experience with the property version. Aristocrat will show multiple points earned based on tier ranking). brand they know. Then, nLiveLink links the titles at G2E, including 5 Dragons nCompass enables the casino to target brick and mortar casino to the nLive casino, via and 5 Dragons Deluxe; and Queen messages to specific players on the property’s existing Oasis 360 system. The of the Nile and Queen of the Nile individual machines. link gives a more comprehensive view of the Deluxe. The breakthrough module nVision player, and gives players more opportunities for Speeding down the track is Gold is Aristocrat’s business intelligence more rewards as they play the casino’s games Class Cash Express in the incredible solution, and has been field-proven to their way. VIRIDIAN WS with player-favorite help casinos gain market advantage. Players can take the fun with them anywhere titles including Buffalo, More Chilli, While all casino management systems with Aristocrat’s play-for-fun mobile apps for More Hearts, 50 Lions and Pompeii gather data, only nVision gathers iPhone and iPad. Aristocrat has 17 apps Tarzan is back in the completely meaningful performance information available so far, and they are new game and story line of Tarzan and provides analytical resources and some of the most & Jane Forbidden Temple. toolsets that are customizable and can popular of their And Superman brings his most grow as demand for information kind, earning more famous friends to Superman The evolves. nVision empowers users to than 500,000 Movie VIRIDAN HYBRID and to access key performance indicators downloads to the new VERVEhd Superman. across the entire operation, enabling date. faster and better decision making With Systems through quick insights into current Aristocrat’s Great games deserve a great system, and and historical performance data. nVision allows games Aristocrat’s Oasis 360 has been voted the the user to choose standard reports or ad hoc offerings, the greatest, named Best Player Tracking System in reports. latest the 2012 Goldman Sachs Survey. It’s the most It all comes together in booth #1141, we technology widely installed system in North America, invent, we imagine, and we create the world’s meets monitoring devices at more than 285 casinos. greatest gaming experience, every day.
40 OCTOBER 2012 EGT:Layout 1 18/09/2012 08:56 Page 1 p42 EGT-Gasser:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:35 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW Great expectations for EGT at G2E A wide portfolio of products is promised by the gaming innovators
uro Games Technology has the innovations in the field of ergonomics. In valuable asset in every reputation of one of the fastest addition to the new cabinets, EGT will present casino because of its growing companies in the Gaming its brand-new Premier Multi-2 Multigame multi functionality. The Industry. Sleek design and cutting- which comprises a great choice of attractive United Mystery Jackpot Eedge technologies combined with high-quality games and are driven by the System can be innovative ergonomics have become the trade technologically advanced Exciter II Platform. connected to more than mark of the company. It has become a tradition EGT will impress its visitors with another 100 machines of ANY for the company to surprise its present and attractive product – the Vega R8 Electronic brand and features 3 future customers by presenting brand new Roulette. This sophisticated Multi-Wheel levels of jackpot. products at the largest gaming exhibitions. supported product supplies 8 comfortable “Euro Games EGT’s presentation at this year’s G2E gaming player stations, with conveniently sized 22” Technology has always show in Las Vegas will definitely satisfy all wide-screen monitors and is compatible with prided itself with a wide customers’ expectations. EGT’s Roulette Center and Live Roulette and ever expanding The visitors will have the opportunity to Wheels by TCSJOHNHUXLEY, Cammegh and portfolio of products enjoy the new sleek and brilliant P – 22/22 Abbiati. The outstanding Vega R8 Electronic and the company will Slant Top and Upright Cabinets from the Roulette will definitely make an impression of demonstrate this once Premier Series. By designing these extremely exclusivity and high class technology which more at the G2E advanced gaming devices the company has guarantees that the player will enjoy placing Gaming Show in Las taken into consideration important psycho- bets and partake in the roulette game to the Vegas. No wonder that physical factors, using their 10 years’ maximum. every exhibition brings experience in the manufacturing of gaming EGT’s triumph at G2E Las Vegas will be numerous new members in the club of EGT’s machines. The cabinets combine the privileges completed by the United Mystery Jackpot admirers!”- comments Silvia Mincheva, PR & of cutting-edge technology and the latest System. This system proves to be a really Marketing Manager at EGT. Gasser brings new ‘Coltrane’ Advances casino seating comfort, says company
hio-based Gasser Chair Company is a new level,” said Mr. Gasser. set to launch its newest revolutionary Innovative features of the Coltrane that slot stool, the “Coltrane,” at this year’s provide for maximum comfort and support, as OGlobal Gaming Expo (G2E), the well as ease of maintenance, include annual trade show and conference event for molded, ergonomically contoured foam the international gaming cushions - backrest foam with lumbar support entertainment industry, taking place in Las and shaped to hug the body; seat foam with a Vegas this October. front edge shaped for better leg The innovative, new Coltrane slot stool circulation; Gasser’s unique Easy-Change seat conforms to its user’s body to provide maximum and backrest system; Gasser’s unique comfort and support, and also melds Comfort Zone FlexBack™ technology and a style, durability and ergonomics to increase new, Gasser-exclusive, 360-degree memory players’ time on the device. This results in an return swivel (designed without the use of advanced seating system that provides a better springs). overall guest experience which leads to more The Coltrane also has an integrated hand mandates.“As one of the earliest pioneers in the playing time. pull on the backrest and a durable aluminum casino seating industry, we have always been an “When a guest can sit comfortably for longer base with mega-glides, which allows it to innovator. The new Coltrane slot stool is a slot playing sessions, the result is likely to be weigh no employees to easily move the Coltrane statement of leadership, as well as our more coin-in and profit for a casino,” said Mark with much less effort, which can result in continued commitment to the casino industry,” Gasser, president of Gasser Chair Company. reduced fatigue and injury claims. he said. The Coltrane’s key components are advanced According to Mr. Gasser, the Coltrane is the “The new Coltrane, as well as all seating materials and ergonomic engineering result of extensive research and development products we produce, is manufactured in the combined advantageously to keep players aimed at creating a seating product that USA with the highest quality materials and comfortable and in “the playing mood” longer. addresses players’ comfort desires, operation’s superior craftsmanship,” added Mr. Gasser. “We have taken ergonomic casino seating to functional needs and management’s economic
42 OCTOBER 2012 ARUZE:Layout 1 06/09/2012 09:09 Page 1 p44 novomatic:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:38 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW Innovative spirit shines from Novomatic Booth 2654 is the place to find the gaming giant’s latest and greatest
ovomatic Group companies and concepts to appeal to the widest range of Vision and the Super-V+ Gaminator III Austrian Gaming Industries (AGI), player preferences. cabinets. Among them is a bank of machines Octavian, numerous South- The incomparable ‘Marilyn’ will have her own that will be linked to the brand new Magic American subsidiaries, UK prominent show performance in Las Vegas with Joker Jackpot - a thrilling card-animated multi- Nsubsidiary Astra Games, AGI Africa a selection of Marilyn-themed level progressive mystery jackpot and Florida based partner Reel Games Inc. will Coolfire II single games: novelty – and a completely new game present on booth 2654 what’s new, what’s most Hollywood Stars, Marilyn Blue with an innovative skill feature that impressive and what’s a must-have in the world Star, Marilyn Red Carpet, Marilyn’s will celebrate its world premiere at of gaming. Diamonds and the Poker highlight the Las Vegas show. The product presentation at booth 2654 will Marilyn’s Poker Gold will all The NOVO LINE Novo Unity II comprise all of the latest Novomatic gaming feature strongly in combination multiplayer installation will be highlights and attractions live on site for show with the Marilyn Flexi-Link positioned around one fully visitors to examine and test. Product specialists Community Jackpot. automated Novo Multi-Roulette wheel from AGI and partner Reel Games, plus many A bank of NOVOSTAR SL2 slant and will comprise the entire range of South-American subsidiaries, tops will also present a Flying (fully animated) electronic including AGI Argentina, AGI selection of the latest multiplayer game versions as well as a Gaming Colombia, Crown Gaming Coolfire II single games: Bee Wild, Costa slot mix. All games will be available on each of Mexico, Crown Gaming Paraguay, del Cash, Northern Light, African Simba, the connected player terminals (NOVOSTAR Crown Gaming Peru, Novo Gaming Treasure Gate and Happy Serengeti. SL1 and Novo-Bar). Chile and Octavian de Argentina as Also on show will be the Novomatic well as from UK subsidiary Astra Reel Tournament. This exciting Octavian will present a range of 12 thrilling Games and AGI Africa will be ready marketing tool for all sorts of casino single games with promising names such as and happy to explain all features promotion programmes brings a special Triple Force, Smart Robots, Bug’s Buck$ or Sea and functionalities. competitive gaming thrill to any slot Hunters and a variety of innovative game Most of the games on the floor. It allows operators to offer their concepts and rewarding bonus featukpot Novomatic booth will be shown in guests - via just the push of a button - novelty – and a completely new game with an the two most popular Novomatic live tournaments in real time on an innovative skill feature that will celebrate its cabinets: the grand casino slant unlimited number of connected Super- world premiere at the Las Vegas show. top NOVOSTAR SL and the very V+ Gaminator machines featuring the Octavian will also demonstrate the casino latest upright attraction Super-V+ Super-V+ Gaminator multi-game mix T1. management system MyACP (Accounting Gaminator III. Extra wide screens The system’s tournament controller Control Progressives System) live at the show. for an in-depth gaming experience, makes it possible for the operator to The MyACP system is modular and thus highly elegant style and top quality design choose from a variety of games and to ‘tuneable’ to the requirements of operators and make these cabinets attractive offer different win modes, tournament the pertaining regulations in various highlights on every casino floor settings and valuable promotional extras; jurisdictions and has proved highly popular, and provide the perfect housing without any software changes or game particularly in South-America. for an ultimately thrilling game down time. Jens Halle, Managing Director AGI sees library. A spectacular range of NOVOLINE games excellent business opportunities in Las Vegas: And hardly a game will be missing from the and systems will be on show in Las Vegas: “The Las Vegas show is traditionally one of the Las Vegas show floor! The Premium-V+ Single games, multi-games and multiplayers. most important events of the annual show Gaminator multi-game mix comprises a total of The NOVO LINE INTERACTIVE games cover a calendar and especially with this earlier and 41 Coolfire II games that are presented to the great variety of thrilling themes, with 5-50 lines generally more convenient October date we guest in five colour-coded logical categories for and innovative mathematical concepts for expect to see a great number of business best game recognition and guest orientation: gaming fun, gaming thrills and gaming partners, customers and also new contacts in Classic Lines, Multi-Lines, Power Lines, Fruits excitement on every floor. The system is server- Las Vegas. As we are now intensifying our and Specials. The show machines will be based ready, providing an ideal basis for a later commitment to the US and Latin American connected to a Rise of the Dragon mystery connection to a server based gaming regions, I am very positive that 2012 will be an progressive jackpot for extra jackpot thrills. The environment. excellent show for Novomatic, for our latest Super-V+ Gaminator multi-game mixes The 17 NOVO LINE INTERACTIVE single colleagues from Octavian and also a real (numbers 61, 62, 63, 64, 66 and 67) will games presented at the show in Las Vegas will ‘breakthrough’ event for our partner Reel present a multitude of different game themes be shown in the NOVOSTAR SL2, Novo Super- Games.”
44 OCTOBER 2012 TRANSACT FP:Layout 1 20/09/2012 10:48 Page 1 p46 quixant-suzo:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:39 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW Quixant launches new platform Stand 1936 for the latest developments in gaming platforms
uixant USA is using G2E 2012 to package can support up to ten independent offer the most comprehensive range of all-in- launch its latest all-in-one gaming HD screens. The QX-40 features an enclosed one solutions for every budget, specification platform, the QXi-4000, as well as CPU tray and backplane arrangement, and performance requirement in the gaming publicly exhibiting its high-end allowing simple customisation to match all market. Our deep understanding of customer QQX40 platform for the first time at cabinet and wiring requirements. Dual and needs enables us to focus our R&D effort on a major expo. Quad Core configuration options are solutions to the challenges faced by customers The QXi-4000 is a compact, fanless all-in- available up to 2.7GHZ (to 3.2GHz with and on continuing to provide best-in-class, one gaming platform based on AMD’s boost) with up to 16GB of DDR3 RAM. reliable, cost effective solutions”. Embedded R-Series APU with integrated AMD Both the QXi-4000 and QX-40 feature For further information on the new QXi- RadeonTM HD7000G series graphics and is Quixant’s advanced PCI Express based gaming 4000 and QX-40, please contact our sales team capable of driving up to four independent HD I/O and non-volatile MRAM/SRAM which at [email protected]. Also, customers wishing screens, including support for DisplayPort 1.2 boasts a significant increase in functionality to meet at the show should contact Amit technology. It is available with both Dual and and bandwidth. Sharma, Vice President, Sales at Quad Core processor variants up to 2.1GHz (to The QXi-4000 and QX-40 benefit from [email protected] to arrange a time. 2.8GHz with boost) and supports up to 16GB Quixant’s comprehensive driver and protocol of DDR3 main memory. The new QXi-4000 support, including SAS 6.02, under both offers unrivalled performance at a very Windows Embedded and Linux. Long term attractive price point. supply is ensured for a minimum 5 years at the The QXi-4000 Launched in May the powerful QX-40 launch of each new product. combines the power of AMD’s Embedded Sales Director, Gary Mullins, commented: RSeries APU together with a discrete AMD “We are very excited to be showcasing not one Radeon E6740 or E6760 Embedded GPU on but two ground breaking new platforms at our the same PCB. This unique integrated G2E booth this year. Quixant continues to Suzo Happ: Solutions and service A world leader in its field, Suzo Happ represents more than 50,000 components
he Suzo-Happ Group is the world powerful, strong, and quiet. It is protected by and dirt, meaning longer and more accurate leader in solutions and service and anti-jam electronics and low- and high-level performance. providing professional consultation, sensing, and comes standard with an incredible The newest addition to Suzo-Happ’s hopper development, to the global gaming 1,500 coin capacity. line is the Flow Hopper, an innovative through- Tindustry. Suzo-Happ has grown to 12 Operator feedback resulted in the new excel hole coin disk hopper with extremely durable strategic locations with nearly 500 hopper, the latest edition to Suzo-Happ’s construction and a flexible design. The Flow professionals worldwide. hopper line. A smart planetary gearbox system Hopper is available in two interfaces – either At G2E 2012, Suzo-Happ will be in booth # combines maximum torque with minimal power standard parallel or ccTalk serial, and can pay 4041, presenting five critical components that consumption. Its silent operation, easily out at seven coins per second. It also has help make every gaming operation more accessible coin exit and simple integration are optical sensor check and anti-jam features. efficient, cost-effective, and profitable. Visit among the excel hopper’s advantages. To bring a higher level of excitement to the Suzo-Happ at the Global Gaming Expo and Also in the line is the Cube casino floor, Suzo-Happ offers the learn about the Suzo-Happ hopper line, Hopper MK2, the most reliable Celebration Topper. It gives Celebration Toppers, Airistar Filters, small hopper available anywhere. acknowledgement to a hand-pay QTBrightek LED lighting, and PALtronics It is constructed of the highest jackpot with a confetti launcher, components. quality plastic, making it 8-watt stereo audio celebration, Suzo-Happ’s exclusive hopper line has extremely durable. Because it is videos on a 15.6” LCD screen and solutions for every size of need. The Evolution a single-denomination hopper, it flashing multi-color RGB LED Coin Hopper has recently been re-engineered is one of the fastest on the lights. The Celebration Topper by Suzo-Happ’s R&D professionals, resulting in market, processing coins at interfaces directly into the game’s the best belt-driven hopper available. Its about seven per second. An SAS line, and is programmable to superior design is suitable for 95 percent of the integrated optical read-out your level of hand-pay. world’s coins and tokens, without any sensor is strategically located Celebration videos come adjustments. Strong plastic construction and under the platform so the standard, and they can be large DC/electric motor construction make it sensor is protected from light customized.
46 OCTOBER 2012 CRANE:Layout 1 06/09/2012 09:50 Page 1 p48 Spielo:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:40 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW SPIELO signs up PopCap for exciting new titles Plants vs Zombies in a slot machine! See it at Booth 1265
PIELO International is showing more entertaining games than ever before at the 2012 Global Gaming SPIELO launches Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas, including SDEAL OR NO DEAL Join’N Play 2. new titles based on The successor has all the features that players love – the time-based bonus, the player-friendly PopCap games community aspect, the use of strategy, and the broad appeal to both entertainment-seekers Casino operators, get ready to soil your and gamblers. plants…
In DEAL OR NO DEAL Join’N Play 2, the SPIELO International is launching four new recognized the strength behind PopCap’s game is now quicker, bigger, and better. The exclusive licensed slot titles based on some of casual games, which are known for their guaranteed bonus hits more frequently, every the world’s most popular casual video games. creativity, humor, and attention to detail. eight minutes, for even more excitement. It SPIELO International and PopCap Games, a They’re played by billions of people keeps the same stress-free eligibility and easy division of Electronic Arts, have entered into a worldwide, and appeal equally to both men bonus qualification that thrilled players in the licensing agreement and have developed slot and women,” said SPIELO International original. Mystery bonuses occur more games based on three internationally President and CEO Walter Bugno. frequently as well, including brand recognized PopCap franchises – Plants vs. “We know our customers want compelling new free spins that sweeten the Zombies, Zuma, and Bejeweled. and entertaining content that will intrigue deal. Occasionally, the Four slot games based on the brands – current players while also growing the player community bonus becomes a including Plants vs. Zombies Gargantuar base, so we’ve worked closely with PopCap to Super Bonus, where the top and Plants vs. Zombies Backyard Showdown stay true to the spirit of their brands and briefcases have their values – will be unveiled at Booth 1265 at G2E Las create terrifically fun and engaging new slot doubled, leading to much Vegas on Oct. 2, 2012. Don’t miss the gaming experiences.” larger banker’s offers and morning launch as the rivalry between the Visit Booth 1265 at G2E 2012 to see how wins. This sequel is truly plants and the zombies spills out onto the PopCap’s universally beloved casual game SPIELO International’s show floor. brands are translating into SPIELO biggest deal yet! “SPIELO International immediately International’s most entertaining titles to date.
SPIELO International’s innovative new core games include 1421 Voyages of Zheng He, Hawaiian Treasures, Gypsy Moon, and more.
But that’s only the beginning of SPIELO International’s exciting content- driven solutions. Visit Booth 1265 at G2E 2012 to see much more, and find out how SPIELO International speaks entertainment.
48 OCTOBER 2012 SET PRODS FP:Layout 1 20/09/2012 09:28 Page 1 p50 Aruze:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:41 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW Aruze builds on growth with new titles New product category Innovator Deluxe feature stunning top boxes
ruze Gaming America, one of the fastest Innovator titles on display will be Ali Baba, The Gold, growing suppliers in the gaming Crystal, Seven Rush, Sapphire Chance and industry, will display a new library of eye- d’Artaganan and the Musketeers. catching games at the Global Gaming AExpo in Las Vegas. Aruze’s growth can be In the community gaming segment of Aruze’s attributed to superior performance in all areas of the product portfolio are the award winning G-LINK casino floor, including distinctive stepper slots, titles, Amazon Fishing and Rich Life. Amazon Fishing leading communal play video machines, and includes Aruze Gaming’s Reel Feel Gaming innovative multi-station products that are “Designed Technology, as well as a “Choose Your Bait” option to Engage Players, All in the that allows players to attract the Name of Fun.” These types of fish they want according to products feature innovative their own play style. Bigger bait play mechanics, exciting means bigger fish and higher graphics, and strong math all volatility, while the smaller bait will driven by comfortable and appeal to the player who is looking reliable platforms. for less volatile payouts.
“Aruze understands that the With Rich Life, Aruze Gaming core element of the player positions two players side-by-side in experience is fun, which is why a head-to-head competition called it has such a primary focus in the VERSUS EVENT. The VERSis our designs,” says Steve displayed on a 60-inch LCD monitor Walther, Aruze Gaming that features a large game board America’s Chief Marketing showing the progress of the player Officer. “This focus has as they move through the game. contributed to the excellent Players are able to select their own performance of our products character, and during a randomly as players have responded triggered VERSUS EVENT, the favorably to our games.” decisions that one player makes can has an effect on the outcome of the Building upon the other player. If the player makes it popularity of its Innovator all the way to the GOAL in the steppers with Radiant Reels, individual game, they are awarded a Aruze Gaming introduces a chance to win a variety of credit new product category, the awards through the spin of a wheel. Innovator Deluxe. Like their G-DELUXE counterparts, these machines feature elaborate top In the standalone video G-SERIES segment, Aruze boxes that are sure to turn heads. The Innovator will be showing its largest portfolio of new games in Deluxe is a premium range of stepper products that its history with over 20 new video titles on display for matches the excitement of Aruze steppers, with the first time in Las Vegas. This includes the unique interactive experience. For example, in Standalone Progressive, Rich and Prosperous, which Aladdin & the Lamp, players rub an actual “lamp” to features an exciting rapid hit symbol driven call forth the genie during the bonus event. Actions progressive that can be won in both the base game that occur in the top box impact the spins of the and the feature games. As the player increases their Radiant Reels below. bet, more progressive trigger symbols are added to the fifth. Among the additional G-SERIES games on Both the Innovator Deluxe and the Innovator display will be Lucky Africa, Bengal Riches, Eagle product lines feature Radiant Reels which include Warrior, and Queen Bee. 240 full-color LED lights and feature different illuminations and motions for various game play Aruze Gaming will also show its latest premium scenarios. Among the Innovator Deluxe and range of G-DELUXE interactive top box products.
50 OCTOBER 2012 QUIXANT:Layout 1 19/09/2012 12:55 Page 1 p52 casino tech:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:42 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW Casino Technology promises tempting proposals… Company to show US Class II market product with Alto Gaming
his year at G2E Casino Technology increasing player excitement and game will demonstrate the latest performance results. developments in game suite multigame sets, designed for the US All of the new games and products will be Tclass III markets. Participating jointly demonstrated and offered also as server-based with their US partner Alto Gaming the products utilizing the unique patented Server company is introducing a number of new Games Technology (SGT) of the company, games, presented as themed multigame sets, providing opportunity for interactive mobile ensuring bigger diversity for the players. and online gaming. Through integration of SERVER GAMES TECHNOLOGY operators can The successful concept of GAMOPOLIS virtually expand their business reach, adding multigames, which allows every operator to new gaming places to play through other attract the interest of maximum number of platforms than traditional slot machines, such visitors with different profiles on minimum as tablets, mobile devices, etc. space, has been now brought to the US markets Integration with SERVER GAMES with several new GLI certified versions. TECHNOLOGY is simple and uses standard GAMOPOLIS 20, 21 and 22 are featuring per web API. Thus, operators can use their existing 10 or 15 games, mixing proven global iGaming platform adding new games for their performers with some brand new titles from the clients. This technology can support as well company library. jackpots in a global network on the markets where this is permitted by law. The server-based More action and excitement to players is system can operate both in a single location via provided by the multigame suite LAN, as well as in wide area objects connected MOTORMANIA based on the high-speed via an Internet connection. experience and motor racing roar, which is also SERVER GAMES TECHNOLOGY includes a GLI 11 approved and available for immediate complete casino management system of server- installation. Also introduced to the US based devices, as well as of traditional gaming customers is the WORLD OF WONDERS equipment. It includes Accounting, Cashless, multigame suite, featuring breathtaking views TITO, jackpots, CRM and Player Tracking from the world’s most beautiful places. Both modules. The system provides centralized game suites are featuring amazing life-like control and access with flexible options for graphic presentations and features, attracting remote game control through various menus. younger audience and first time visitors. The first installation of the server-based At the centerpiece of Casino Technology system is being arranged for multiple locations showcase will be new developments in in Bulgaria and is will take place till the end of luxurious PENTHOUSE SLOTS series, the year. The interest to these technologies in completing a full set of casino equipment. The the country increased rapidly with the new glamorous, entertaining games from the series gaming regulation, which came into effect in are now presented in a second version of the June 2012. branded SENSATIONAL PLUS cabinet, featuring blue lighting and new themed The company will demonstrate the toppers, corresponding to the ‘masculine advantages of SERVER GAMES TECHNOLOGY principle’ as an alternative to the initial at its domestic gaming exhibition BEGE 2012, ‘feminine’ version. The PENTHOUSE SLOTS are on October 16 -18, in Sofia. True to its also offered as a multigame set, and are philosophy to continually offer new and additionally available in the patented Casino pioneering concepts, the company will also Technology grand piano multiplayer station surprise its customers with a brand new PLAYME in a branded PENTHOUSE design. solution for cross entertainment, based on New to the line is the themed PENTHOUSE licensed product line, which is to be done for SLOTS mystery progressive multi-level Jackpot, the first time in Bulgaria.
52 OCTOBER 2012 p53:Layout 1 24/09/2012 09:46 Page 1 p54 Inno-VNE:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:43 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW Innocore’s ‘broadest line-up ever’ Gaming boards, Mini-ITX, Com Express, DPX-S430 with AMD R-Series…
dvantech-Innocore presents a new monitors, etc. the new DPX-S430 excels. With both the AMD and comprehensive product line R-Series integrated Radeon™ HD7000G GPU up during the upcoming G2E From the impressive range of Advantech and the flexibility to add PCI-Express x16 exhibition in Las Vegas. In addition ‘standard’ products, the selection of industrial graphics cards, the DPX-S430 offers an Ato the advanced DPX® Series of Mini-ITX and COM Express modules on the unparalleled combination of performance and dedicated gaming boards and systems, a wide stand include products based on the latest scalability with the ability to drive up to 10 range of Advantech standard industrial PC AMD R-series chipset and the Intel QM77 displays. products will be on display. Also the growing chipset (3rd Generation Intel® Core™ Customers who would like to upgrade from range of industrial touch-displays up to 42” processors). In the family of industrial touch their existing DPX-S series platforms can do so can be seen together with a range of long display solutions, various sizes up to 42” with with little integration work due to the lifecycle graphics cards. multi-touch and banner ratio are presented. consistent mechanical and software footprint First focus however at G2E is the well known and the support of Advantech’s global support This unique line up underlines the fact that DPX range of products, a family that welcomes network. Advantech-Innocore is part of Advantech a new addition in the S-series, the DPX®-S430. Also on display are the DPX-S415 and the corporation, the world’s largest company in the Intel HM55 based DPX-S425. The popular low- world of industrial automation devices and Utilizing the remarkable new AMD cost E-series is represented by the DPX-E120, a computing. For customers of Advantech- Embedded R-Series Platform, the DPX-S430 is full boxed system with high performance Innocore, this means they have access to the a complete industrial computer platform for integrated graphics and low power widest range of industrial PC components but gaming applications. In common with all DPX® consumption based on AMD G-series APU. also to hospitality and digital signage solutions, products, the DPX-S430 includes a full feature portable and handheld battery-powered set of I/O, COMs and security designed Advantech-Innocore is located at stand terminals and tablets, touchscreen computers, specifically for gaming devices. no.3847 at G2E. I/O modules, industrial controllers, open frame It is in the area of graphics performance that VNE brings new product to G2E Queen Change and new Ticket Tender on show at Coin Mechanism stand
NE – the number one manufacturer satisfaction. Naturally the strong, solid and consists of three separate note dispensing in the largest and most competitive secure cabinet plays a major role in the VNE units. Therefore, three separate note market for change machines – design. The Queen Change can be fixed denominations, each of 500 notes, are available namely Italy – will be displaying two securely in place either on a wall (by using the for payout. A sneak preview can be seen by Vkey solutions on the stand of their Blindo from VNE) or in any position by Heavy video on http://youtu.be/Ptf_kYuS_sM American partner – Coin Mechanism. from VNE. Mr. Lorenzo Verona, Commercial Director at Italy is the most important market in Europe VNE will also be presenting a brand new VNE, commented, for video lottery terminals (VLTs). VNE has product – especially designed for the American “We have ideal amassed great experience in change market. The Ticket Tender (TT) allows operators solutions for the requirements for this market. to simply and easily pay players with winning American market. tickets. Operators have an electronic key to Queen Change is Queen Change machine is a change access the TT. VNE provides five levels of perfect for the specifically designed for the VLT market. It has operator ID so individual levels of access can VLT market and a PC platform, a thermal printer, one ticket and be programmed. The upper console has an the new TT has banknote acceptor and one Fujitsu dispenser integrated display so that operators been particularly banknote (5 cassettes for 5 different immediately see the amount to be paid out created for the US denomination of notes for a total capacity of which they then confirm by pressing a further market. Our 2,500 banknotes). Three coin hoppers ensure button. The buttons are arranged in a user- partner Coin that there is ample capacity for paying out friendly way – thus combining security with Mechanisms looks different coin denominations. All VNE change speed of payout. This upper console can be forward to machines can be remotely monitored – so removed from the TT body – for example the greeting visitors operators have 24/7 real-time information of operator can place it on a desk to even more at the the money in and out. Furthermore, remote user-friendliness. The TT is equipped with a forthcoming G2E servicing ensures long-term customer Fujitsu F53 banknote dispensing system that in Las Vegas”.
54 OCTOBER 2012 GARY PLATT:Layout 1 01/12/2011 08:21 Page 1 G2E PREVIEW Bally drives NASCAR brand to gaming floors Nearly 300 games and 140 unique titles alongside a systems bonanza…
ally Technologies is roaring into the displays throughout the casino resort. Locking Wilds and rich Native American 2012 Global Gaming Expo packing graphics. Star Signs, on the innovative Pro a lot of power under the hood – Pawn Stars Curve cabinet, offers players the chance to new games, systems, and interactive Bally brings one of the world’s top TV shows choose their zodiac sign to theme the game. Bsolutions designed to excite players to casino floors in Pawn Stars, featuring Rick, and rev up casino operators’ revenue and grandfather Richard (Old Man), grandson Systems Business Excites Players operating efficiency. Corey, and Corey’s loveable sidekick Chumlee, Taking center stage in Bally’s systems display Premiering this year in its exhibit no. 1127, from the hit TV series Pawn Stars on the will be Service Tracking Manager, the leading- Bally unveils two more world-class brands: HISTORY Channel. Airing in more than 150 edge automated dispatch and alert system that NASCAR and Pawn Stars. Look for them under countries in 37 languages, Pawn Stars has been enhances customer service by routing messages the flag, “Driving Innovation” at the Sands rated a top cable show in the United States, from Bally’s suite of systems products. From Expo & Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nev. Europe, and Latin America, and has millions of managing the slot floor, reviewing table-game “We will showcase an explosion of content as viewers across the globe. alerts, identifying premier patrons, notifying we combined our expanded game studios and With its giant wheel, free games, 11 wheel- casino hosts, and enrolling “hot” players, systems engineers with our record-setting bonus prizes, wilds, pick-‘em features, and Service Tracking Manager takes the efficiency innovation to create stunning products across iDeck interaction, this game promises to be as of casino operations to new heights by games, systems, and interactive technologies,” popular as the show itself. monitoring, managing, executing, and said Richard M. Haddrill, Chief Executive providing statistical analysis. Service Tracking Officer of Bally Technologies. “This will be our For-Sale Game Content Driven Manager, which has enhanced and optimized best G2E ever.” by 11 New Play Mechanics casino operations in one of the world’s largest It’s Full-Throttle Ahead with World-Class casinos, interfaces with handheld smart devices Licensed Brands: The Pro Series cabinets’ for-sale game such as iPhone and iPad for faster routing of portfolio is turbo-charged this year as casino-floor personnel to patrons. NASCAR Video Slots Bally unveils a host of new games The NASCAR video slot features a featuring engaging play Bally Interactive Provides a Single View of lineup of who’s who in racing royalty – mechanics, clever themes, and the Player Clint Bowyer, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Jeff animated graphics that deliver Gordon, Kevin Harvick, and Jimmie an exceptional play Bally’s internet and mobile solutions are Johnson. NASCAR is delivered on Bally’s experience. From must-hit designed to give casinos a single view of the ALPHA 2 Pro Series V22/32 cabinet standalone progressives, player across online, mobile, and traditional available with both a life-changing Cash multipliers, and entertaining land-based gaming platforms. At G2E 2012, Connection wide-area progressive top new features that take wilds, Bally will showcase its full suite of interactive jackpot award and stand-alone versions stacked reels, free games, solutions including the Bally Mobile platform for non-WAP jurisdictions. Quick Hit, Hot Zone, and for concierge casino apps and mobile websites; iDeck to the next level, the its open iGaming platform that enables casinos Virtual Racing NASCAR content for Bally’s Pro Upright, to deliver play-for-free and wager-based poker, V32, Curve, and Stepper table games, video slots, and sports betting and Bally extends its NASCAR cabinets kicks the fun into choose from best-of-breed content; and a lineup with Virtual Racing high gear. library of interactive games based on proven NASCAR. This fast-paced, floor- casino-gaming content. wide community-bonusing event Must-see core for-sale titles No other company has the ability to brings the sights, sounds, and include Sumo Kitty, wrestling integrate traditional casino systems with online, thrill of NASCAR racing to up plenty of fun with the mobile, and social. As a result, operators can casino floors as players select Super Hot Zone play conduct marketing, bonusing, data tracking, one of eight famous NASCAR mechanic. The delightful and collection seamlessly, enabling them to drivers. Players root for their driver devils in Triple Trouble understand and market to their players in ways as the cars race around the track, deliver a rewarding play never before possible. Players can play the same with the action showcased on the experience in a classic Bally games, receive the same bonuses, and earn the iVIEW or iVIEW DM player-user- theme. Bally’s first 100-line game, same points on the casino floor, at home, or on interfaces and CoolSign-enabled Spirit, engages players with the move.
56 OCTOBER 2012 cammegh:Layout 1 23/09/2011 11:41 Page 1 p58 GPI:Layout 1 24/09/2012 11:45 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW GPI’s chip advances at G2E With G2E just around the corner, Gaming Partners International is looking forward to exhibiting our full range of casino currency solutions and table game products.
s the gaming industry’s leading provider automates chip counting and pot calculation of casino currency, we will feature our processes, reducing down-time between new B&G Premium Chips that combine rounds. advancements in chip manufacturing Awith a much broader range of design We will also highlight our RFID Total possibilities. By providing casinos with the ability to Money Management Solution that combines create a unique chip that incorporates their logo or the efficiencies of RFID with JCM’s iV8 high- other key elements into the mold, B&G Premium speed table bill validator. By streamlining Chips provide an excellent alternative to standard table cash and chip transactions to increase mold designs. Best of all, they can incorporate an rounds per hour, TMMS provides greater extensive range of security features, providing casinos currency security through instant cash and with both a visually appealing chip as well as a more chip authentication and transaction secure one that is more resistant to counterfeiting. balancing, while reducing manual counting procedures to provide labor savings and accounting Another new currency product we will feature is efficiencies. our new J2 jeton: a groundbreaking product that combines the aesthetic and security features of Finally, GPI’s G2E experience will European-style jetons with the easy handling of include a full demonstration of our American-style chips. Featuring color edge spots that complete line of table game products, allow easy identification when in racks or stacks, the featuring a wide range of table games J2 can include a wide range of decal and printing that highlight our unparalleled options not available on traditional jetons, including furniture manufacturing expertise. holograms, diffraction foils and more. This year we will highlight a blackjack table with a quick-change top that We will also highlight several new security features provides an easier way for casinos to including 4C-UV, a cutting-edge security feature that change game layouts. And, each table uses a standard UV detector to reveal a full-color will be stocked with the essential photograph in the chip decal, making it easy for products required for a live game, as dealers to detect. Next, our MicroDots combine the our extensive product portfolio includes playing authentication properties of security holograms with cards, dice, roulette wheels, table game accessories a higher level of counterfeit resistance and can be and more. used on chip decals or in transparent chip materials. Available in two sizes, For more information, visit us at booth 4441 or at the larger size can even include a micro-punched www.gpigaming.com code of up to eight digits for a higher level of chip authentication.
During G2E we will also demonstrate advancements to RFID technology that give casinos more complete and accurate information about their currency inventories. With an extensive suite of low and high-frequency RFID products that ensure accurate counting, streamlined operations and heightened security, our RFID solutions give operators more control over the money in action on their busy floor.
The first RFID product we will highlight is our RFID poker table that improves rounds per hour while eliminating rake, round-up and other calculation mistakes. Available with an optional progressive jackpot, our RFID poker solution
58 OCTOBER 2012 inspired:Layout 1 21/09/2012 12:22 Page 1 p60 MEI:Layout 1 24/09/2012 12:09 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW MEI showcases Cash Management Solution G2E sees upgrade of PromoNet Coupon Solution
EI is proud to return to G2E this expands the reach of note acceptors year with Gaming’s most from the slot floor into the soft count comprehensive cash management room. The addition of EASITRAX to SC solution – the combination of SC Advance or CASHFLOW SC creates a MAdvance and EASITRAX Soft Count. comprehensive software/hardware By networking the slot floor to the soft count room, system designed to streamline the cash these award-winning products raise the bar for value management process. Since it was and performance expectations while maximizing introduced in 2008, EASITRAX Soft operator profitability. Count has been installed in nearly 80,000 games worldwide, a number SC Advance evolved from the winning CASHFLOW projected to surpass 85,000 by the end SC note acceptor, applying new technology and of 2012. market knowledge to make a great product even better. It features enhanced recognition technology, EASITRAX Soft Count works by faster bill-to-bill speed, improved barcode gathering data from multiple note recognition and the increased capacity to accept up acceptors and funneling that to 100 different currencies and denominations. SC information into a secure remote Advance also has the industry’s best acceptance rate database that can be accessed to track for valid street-grade notes, including those that are revenues and analyze slot performance. wet, crinkled or torn. RFID technology connects slot machine asset numbers to a specific cashbox to The increasing popularity of MEI products like SC help eliminate “hot boxes” and increase operational Advance reflects the importance operators place on efficiencies. Operators typically receive a return on value-added payments systems. As the leading global investment in less than one year by reducing 20-30 manufacturer of automated payments systems, MEI seconds per cash drop and improving maintenance has sold more than five million note acceptors and six practices through access to eight pre-programmed million coin mechanisms worldwide, achieving a 70% reports. An interactive Savings Calculator on the new ship share for three consecutive years in the US. EASITRAX website (easitraxsoftcount.com) provides a Recent property wins include Revel Atlantic City, the valuable tool to estimate how much money can be Hippodrome Casino in London, and multiple sites in saved by implementing the Soft Count cash the Asia-Pacific region – LVS blocks 5 and 6 in management solution. Macau, both Singapore properties, and Bloomsbury in Manila. MEI has also enjoyed success in the VLT market, earning a ship share of 100% in the Alberta Lottery, over 60% in the Atlantic Lottery, nearly 80% in Illinois, and an increasing presence in Manitoba.
Because enhancements are localized to the acceptor head, SC Advance can easily upgrade legacy CASHFLOW SC units so MEI customers can yield the most value from their previous investments. Thanks to its ability to work simultaneously with an existing CASHFLOW SC field base, operators have the luxury of updating the slot floor at their own pace as capital becomes available. Intelligent support tools will sense the product version and run the appropriate software.
More MEI customers are now also implementing EASITRAX Soft Count, a product extension that
60 OCTOBER 2012 p61 IGT:Layout 1 24/09/2012 11:47 Page 1
G2E PREVIEW IGT: creating fans at G2E Find booth 2241 for the industry giant
t G2E 2012, attendees will see the Latin American and Asian-themed titles offer International Game Technology products translated game content and game-play that create fans in booth 2241. As a configurations players prefer. The industry’s only true global leader in casino gaming skill-based games, IGT’s Tully’s Treasure Hunt and Aentertainment and systems technology, Blood Life Legends Video Slots, will feature joystick- IGT delivers the most exciting game experiences to enabled action and skill-based bonuses. players – anywhere. IGT’s award-winning Video Poker catalogue adds Unrivaled performance and global reach define the new levels of excitement and performance with the portfolio of solutions, from MegaJackpots, Core, debut of All Star Poker II, Triple Play Keno Draw Video Poker and casino management systems to Poker, Texas Hold’em Fold Up Poker and Ultimate online and mobile games as well as social, “fun to Aces Poker. play” casino experiences on DoubleDown Casino on IGT turns possibilities into performance by Facebook and mobile. The result: engaging and delivering streamlined, flexible, cutting-edge casino entertaining experiences that players can enjoy management tools. IGT’s Advantage, Casinolink and everywhere. sbX give operators the critical tools for floor-wide IGT MegaJackpots deliver mega-excitement and management. sbX Analytics provides the only pop culture titles that appeal to old and new players operational analysis based on G2S data, allowing for alike from classic Wheel of Fortune action to the more frequent and in-depth analysis of a wide array hilarious comic adventures of Family Guy. Crime of beneficial data. The IGT Universal Game Adaptor scenes, clues and drama come to G2E as the CSI delivers Service Window technology to legacy games. Game Applications and Intelligent Bonusing offer operators new ways to differentiate themselves to the player by bringing new levels of fun and functionality right to the machine. The IGT Cloud is preparing the industry for server solutions based in the cloud. An easily scalable and convenient application, the IGT Cloud provides seamless delivery of information to the casino floor, virtually eliminating the need for costly reconfigurations and land-based server storage. With more than a decade’s experience in online and mobile Video Slots make their debut. Fans can choose their casino gaming, IGT is providing market-leading favorite city and cast from the CSI, CSI: Miami and content to tier one operators in European legalized CSI: NY shows in this three-games-in-one star. markets via the IGT Casino Remote Game Server Blockbuster titles join IGT’s Center Stage Series (IGT rgs), At G2E, online and mobile titles will with Sex and the City Out on the Town, the Star include Diamond Queen, Garden Party, Grand Wars Trilogy and Judge Judy. IGT’s Center Stage Duo Monarch, Five Times Pay, Kitty Glitter, Monopoly also will debut the Wyland Video Slots, which will Plus Ghostbusters, Siberian Storm, Wolf Run and immerse players in oceans of entertainment and Wild Wolf. feature images from the famous artist’s paintings of With millions of players daily, social gaming on ocean life. Facebook is a dynamic way to reach fans and IGT is IGT’s new Core slots at G2E will be the games leading the way by delivering this new player segment players will be searching for at casinos. The Queen of to land-based casino operators with the opportunity Country Music brings the concert to the casino as to integrate the DoubleDown Casino onto their Dolly Parton Slots gives players a front-row seat to big existing websites. Players will have access to top IGT bonuses on both video and spinning reel platforms. titles such as Cleopatra, Wolf Run and others right International appeal and customized play will make from the casinos’ websites. Tango De Oro, Fiesta Chihuahua, Big Dragon Lounge At IGT, we create the games, systems and products and Silk Seduction worldwide superstars as these that create fans – anywhere.
OCTOBER 2012 61 p62 JCM:Layout 1 24/09/2012 12:31 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW “Evolve to be Better, JCM @ Smarter, Faster” G2E JCM Global pushes the boundaries – again! – on stand 3631
CM Global is a company that is constantly program messages to display in English, French, evolving. That’s because JCM is never satisfied Spanish and Simple Chinese or any combination of with today’s technology, and is in constant two languages. Attendant messages are clearly pursuit of newer and better technologies that displayed at the push of a button Jhelp casinos do business better, smarter and for quick dispute resolution. faster. Next is the award-winning That evolution has led to today, with JCM is PayCheck 4 thermal printer, wrapping up the most winning year in its history. the only printer that’s as fast Leading the charge has been JCM’s wide range of as the gaming action on the award-winning products, including the iVIZION bill casino floor. Only the PayCheck 4 validator. iVIZION is the most advanced bill validator can print a ticket in just 0.6 seconds. the gaming industry has ever seen, and the product In fact, the PayCheck 4 is so has been breaking records from coast to coast in the lightning fast, there’s no need to rely United States, and around the world. on a “burst,” like some other, lesser printers do. The PayCheck 4’s 8mb of iVIZION has ramped up faster than any of the four standard memory enables operators to store generations of gaming bill validators introduced more fonts, images, logos and barcodes so they by JCM over the past 22 years. The company has can personalize their players’ gaming experience. never seen operator and supplier acceptance and Plus, it has a lifespan of approximately 640,000 preference at this level for any prior product. The slot-type tickets, the longest-lasting head of any gaming industry fully understands that the printer in the industry. technology JCM has designed into iVIZION will serve them for many years to come. Rounding out JCM’s key products at G2E are the iPRO and iPRO-RC, the UBA-RC and Vega-RC. iVIZION is evolving with an incredible set of Built on JCM’s robust validation and anti- bundled enhancement tools that empower casino stringing platforms, the iPRO, iPRO-RC, UBA-RC operators to do much more than they ever thought and Vega-RC validators add note recycling possible, and in real time. iVIZION’s bundled technology, making them the perfect solution for enhancement tools fulfill iVIZION’s promise of every type device. These devices are already extremely Above: iVIZION. delivering apps that keep it future-proof. popular with gaming route operators across Europe, Below: PayCheck 4 and the Vega-RC was recently named the “Most Compatible with iVIZION is JCM’s Intelligent Cash Innovative Product of 2010” by the UK Independent Box (ICB) version 2.5, which is better than ever Operators Association. because it now allows users to access reports anytime, anywhere, and from any web browser, and to use Now evolve your casino floor with the power of them to customize data presentation to your specs JCM products. Come watch JCM evolve at booth and streamline the entire drop process, all with a #3631! new, more user friendly interface. ICB 2.5 also gives the user the option for auto report notification via email. It has a language package that includes English, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, Italian and German, making the industry’s best cash box even more universal.
The next generation of bezels is the amazing Sentry 2.0 display bezel, available exclusively on iVIZION. Sentry 2.0 has amazing graphic capabilities that come to life in high resolution, high contrast, two color LCD. Operators can easily customize and
62 OCTOBER 2012 p63 Inspired:Layout 1 24/09/2012 12:33 Page 1
G2E PREVIEW Inspired has the Edge Core Edge version of Open SBG Core on show at G2E on booth 3965
nspired Gaming Group is preparing for a wheels (including technology-focused G2E Vegas. Inspired’s auto and live) are ‘Server-Based Geniuses’ will be on Booth #3965 making Sabre answering questions about distributed gaming, Multi-Win Idemonstrating the benefits of the Open SBG Roulette the top Core platform and unveiling a new version called choice for casinos Core Edge. looking to upgrade their current E- New for G2E Vegas 2012 will be Inspired’s Multi- Roulette offering. Game Bar, which allows a range of games(including Virtual Sports, slots and live wheel E-Roulette) to be played on a bar top terminal that is powered by a new “Inspired’s Core Edge version of the Open SBG Core platform. Vegas booth is The Core Edge system delivers all the proven about more than configurability of the Core platform in a low cost, a new killer slot flexible and compact form factor. It is ideal for casino game. We have a operators wanting multiple games in a flexible form very powerful factor, and lottery or arcade operators wanting low technology cost, multi-game devices in street venues. platform behind all of our products and we are focused on Inspired will also be launching an upgraded demonstrating the advantages of this technology to version of its Virtual Motor Racing with enhanced new operators. We have killer games too, but we graphics and live backgrounds. Seven Virtual Sports release them throughout the year with the click of a are available for everymarket from high street button - via our SBG platform”, said Luke Alvarez, lotteries or resort casinos, to online and mobile CEO of Inspired Gaming. sportsbooks. Over 20,000 venues around the world are live with Inspired’s Virtual Sports, having “We have been part of many success stories for realised the value of an additional revenue stream wide area networked gaming – in the UK, Italy, with unlimited races that can be scheduled to suit Colombia and Mexico – and believe many more any venue. markets could adopt this approach for the benefit of players, operators and governments”, added Alvarez. The fastest selling electronic roulette of 2012, Inspired’s Sabre Multi-Win Roulette, will feature on For more information about any of these products three stands at G2E Vegas: Inspired (#3965), or to book an appointment with an Inspired Server- D i g i D e a l ( # 4365 ) a n d T C S J o h n H u x l ey ( # 3817 ) . E asy Based Genius, please email [email protected] or visit Bet features, record incomes and the ability booth #3965 at G2E Vegas. toconnect terminals to any combination of four
OCTOBER 2012 63 p64 GTECH-Newave:Layout 1 24/09/2012 08:46 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW GTECH G2 hosts exciting G2E tourney US operators could win free play-for-fun poker installation
ith the future of online gaming each contestant will be given $5,000 of free US and this competition provides the most in the US set to dominate play poker chips. The remaining seats will be unique of opportunities for employees to make proceedings at The Global drawn live on the SPIELO International booth, the difference at their organisation by helping Gaming Expo (G2E) 2012, where GTECH G2 and SPIELO International to secure their company’s entry into the world WGTECH G2 is offering US will be presenting their integrated gaming of iGaming – for free.” gaming operators the chance to win something offering. All players must register on the William Scott, GTECH G2, Vice President totally unique – the free installation of an online website before Tuesday, September 25. added: “There can be no underestimating the play for fun poker platform, including website The action will be contested through a power of play for fun products. With the ever- design and a tailored services package. specially created tournament on the market- increasing rise in recreational play, they form a GTECH G2, the premier full service provider leading GTECH G2 Poker product and played vital role in a gaming portfolio. We feel our play to the iGaming and sports betting industry, will in nine sessions of 30-minute hellcat/turbo for fun poker platform is second-to-none and host the first tournament of its kind at G2E. games, beginning at 11:00 (local time) on we are giving the industry the chance to see for The prize will provide the winning October 2, the opening day of exhibits at G2E. itself with this innovative competition. Nothing organisation with the tools with which to start Two semi-finals, each with a very special guest, like this has been done before, we are their iGaming journey and includes the poker will take place on Wednesday, October 3, extremely excited about the tournament and client itself, bespoke portal design, full before the grand final later in the day where our ability to give away a free poker installation installation and a tailored package of services. the industry’s ultimate poker player will be which will start an organisation’s iGaming Entry is now open at crowned. journey.” www.gtechg2.com/freepoker and employees “Never before has there been an opportunity from any licensed US commercial and tribal for operators to enter a competition like this,” Full details and terms and conditions can be casino can register and represent their said Walter Bugno, President and CEO of found at www.gtechg2.com/freepoker. company in this unique challenge. The first 83 GTECH G2 and SPIELO International. “We are players to register are guaranteed a seat and closer than ever to regulated iGaming in the Leading Innovation: NEWave Queen Change and new Ticket Tender on show at Coin Mechanism stand
or nearly 20 years, NEWave has been in final development, Vault Manager; and Vault Manager also takes into account cash the leader in providing award- demonstrating integration of the powerful deposits from soft count drop, table game drop, winning, innovative and cost-saving Cummins-Allison iFX high-speed scanner. POS drop, and more. Vault Manager works with solutions to the gaming and Mobile is an extremely user-friendly mobile a property’s cash-counting machines and Fhospitality industry. Today, NEWave is tool that operates in conjunction with provides tape totals for all cash and documents the best known brand of its kind, with a NEWave’s Title 31 Manager and Tax Form from all areas, tracks all ins and outs from the growing client list of more than 230 casinos Validator software. Mobile generates a more vault area, and creates mini vaults as required, across the United States. streamlined and efficient process for casino such as employee banks and chip banks. NEWave is the leading provider of payroll staff across multiple departments, including Vault Manager has a full reporting service check cashing, compliance, tax form processing, Slots, Cage, Table Games, Poker, Bingo, and enabling properties to view history and a revenue audit and document management Race & Sports. Mobile gets the customer back breakdown of the currency/coin from any given solutions. Further, NEWave’s applications all in play quickly by providing the exact time period. Vault Manager also helps interact, share data, and provide end-to-end information needed at the exact time and properties go paperless by utilizing electronic solutions to business problems. place, and Mobile allows casino floor staff to signatures and eliminating the need for any NEWave’s three core product suites – maintain their presence printing of paper documents, saving time and myCompliance Manager, my Revenue Manager on the floor. Mobile money on supplies and FTE. and myDocument Manager – help casinos works on a variety of Last, NEWave has integrated Cummins- streamline operations, drastically reduce mobile devices, including Allison’s new iFX high-speed scanner with paperwork and paper storage, speed tax filing Apple, Android and NEWave’s audit products, dramatically improving processes and help casinos simply operate better. Windows. process efficiency. The Cummins JetScan iFX In fact, one Las Vegas casino conducted an Next, Vault Manager high-speed scanner scans 800 images per independent study and found NEWave’s software accurately tracks all cash minute at 200 dpi, and provides tape totaling saves them more than $100,000 annually. throughout a property, when used with NEWave’s audit software. The Now at G2E 2012, NEWave is releasing its including issuing banks, application is perfect for use with kiosk tickets newest product, Mobile; previewing a product front windows, POS banks, and event banks. and can be used with and without imaging.
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G2E PREVIEW Merkur – the must-visit Germany’s MERKUR GAMING will exhibit a whole world of gaming solutions
ERKUR GAMING will once Mexico’. We have played a major role at gaming experience via the upper again have a strong presence at the Latin American exhibitions this year monitor. A further player benefit is that the upcoming G2E that will and each time our expectations for this the player has a clear, unobstructed view take place in Las Vegas, USA, game were exceeded. Naturally we are between the monitors around the Mbetween 2nd and 4th October. now developing further games around gaming location. The design of the The gaming solutions continue to expand and the Cantinflas theme”. Highflyer has been such a hit that remain extremely focused on player experience. MERKUR GAMING can even offer the These solutions will be on display at stand The MERKUR GAMING games feel cabinet design with just the lower number 2665. As the international gaming right at home with its exquisite cabinet monitor. This cabinet is called the Uno. representative of the German Gauselmann choice. These stylish, durable and ultra- Group, MERKUR GAMING belongs to an modern cabinets combine the latest MERKUR GAMING has proven enterprise, which has a track record that spans technology with the highest quality standards experience and success in the VLT / SBG over five decades of offering the right mix of that offer maximum player convenience. The market and is – for example – a major player in player experience, machine quality and finesse, Evolution cabinet is the slant top that caters the VLT markets in Italy, the Czech Republic a great games collection alongside ‘made in for special casino flair. The Privilege cabinet is and Slovakia. Mr. Peter Amling, Managing Germany’ reliability. the new wide-screen upright cabinet that Director at MERKUR GAMING, explains, “VLT / includes two 22” monitors for optimum game SBG technology is complex and many facets Mr. Thomas Niehenke is the COO of the presentation. The innovative prowess is must be perfectly mastered. Gaming and Gauselmann Group and sums the strength in exemplified in the Highflyer cabinet. This truly technology must flow constantly together. The depth that MERKUR GAMING offers, “Today unique cabinet is a real ‘made in Germany’ amount of development work required to more than ever it is essential to have a strong innovation as the second, upper monitor seems master this technology can be daunting. Not partner at your side with a proven track record. to float in mid-air. Studies have shown that for MERKUR GAMING. As the international The Gauselmann Group is family-owned and specific players prefer to focus on one monitor subsidiary of Germany’s Gauselmann Group, family-managed and thus the management only. Such players can choose to focus on the MERKUR GAMING fulfils all the requirements team is completely focused on this long-term lower monitor or lean back in the specifically to ensure the long-term success in VLT / SBG strategy of bringing the right gaming solutions designed chair and enjoy a more relaxing technology”. to each individual market. The numbers mirror this goal – global turnover topped 1.7 billion The Merkur Dispenser 100 – the ideal euros in 2011 and the number of our staff is banknote recycler for gaming, change and over 6,300. We place utmost priority on redemption machines – will naturally be on research and development as the Gauselmann proud display at the MERKUR GAMING booth. Group plays a leading role in international This proven modern cash management system gaming”. can dispense 102 separate notes of three individual denominations. Well over 60,000 This focus on marrying new ideas and such units are in daily operation. MERKUR technologies will be on display at the G2E. A GAMING has further developed the Merkur fine example is the sheer size of the games Dispenser 100 to cater for worldwide banknote collection that includes a strong variety of needs as well as being able to offer the option different themes, gripping features, thrilling for ticket-on, ticket-out. free games and unique win-line concepts. Thus, players can find the right game that suits them MERKUR GAMING will be joined by two amongst such diversity. MERKUR GAMING further sister companies in Las Vegas. GeWeTe Spokesman of Executive Management, Mr. Rolf – the leading manufacturer of change Falke, explains a classic example of MERKUR machines in Germany – will be exhibiting its GAMING catering for local gaming needs, “We extremely wide range of money changing and at MERKUR GAMING understand how payment systems. edict egaming is the important culture and local tastes are. specialist for online gaming platforms and Naturally we have an abundant games focuses on the development and technical collection that reaches out internationally to operation of online casino solutions and system players. Our strategy is to combine these global platforms in the gaming market. The edict team games successes with local games. Our will be present on the MERKUR GAMING stand Cantinflas game is a perfect example. Cantinflas alongside GeWeTe. The whole team is looking was a much-loved actor and comedian in Latin forward to welcoming visitors at the America, the so-called ‘Charlie Chaplin of forthcoming G2E.
OCTOBER 2012 65 p66 futurelogic:Layout 1 24/09/2012 12:59 Page 2
G2E PREVIEW FutureLogic thermal printers still lead the way G2E sees upgrade of PromoNet Coupon Solution
ounded in 1983, FutureLogic is the leading control technology developer of innovative ticket printing and makes precision couponing solutions to gaming technology grayscale printing a providers and operators around the world. possibility, yielding FAs the premier supplier of super-robust the highest thermal ticket printers to the global gaming industry, resolution output FutureLogic has shipped more than 1.5 million for printing eye- printers for casino gaming, video lottery, AWP, LPM, catching SWP and kiosk applications worldwide. promotional Headquartered in Glendale, CA and with offices coupons. The GEN3 across North and South America, Europe, Asia and Evolution printer is Australia, FutureLogic’s sales and engineering teams equipped with the are ready to provide direct support and local industry’s largest knowledge for manufacturers and operators around standard paper the world. capacity of 450 tickets, saving Solutions/Services on Display at operators up to 30 refills or $300 per printer per G2E 2012 year. In addition, a new low paper sensor helps eliminate paper waste by taking ticket stack down to PromoNet Couponing Solution the last ticket. Finally, to help speed of play, at eight Promotional couponing is the casino marketing inches per second, the GEN3 Evolution printer is the technology of tomorrow and the PromoNet fastest printer in gaming, printing and presenting a intelligent promotional couponing solution offers ticket/coupon in less than one second. casino operators the answer TODAY. The PromoNet solution’s unique features allow casinos to create and TableXchange Printer/Scanner run promotions that identify, track and reward ALL The TableXchange device connects existing table customers (both carded and uncarded) in real-time. games to a casino’s existing TITO network enabling By using the data at the game (time of play, amount dealers to validate and issue TITO vouchers at table wagered, etc.) or data gathered from player tracking games. With the ability to buy-in or cash out at table system database (birth date, etc.), promotions can be games, the TableXchange printer/scanner provides a developed to attract uncarded players to join the bridge between slots and tables, helps casinos Player Club and enhance the casino experience for identify valuable crossover players, and ultimately existing members. The PromoNet solution takes enhances the casino/property experience. With chips promotional couponing further by giving operators remaining at the table, the TableXchange device the ability to analyze and modify promotions for further increases optimum effectiveness and to conduct business operational analytics and reports, all of which helps improve their efficiency at tables bottom line. The PromoNet solution can be and the cash cage by integrated with TITO gaming printers and devices significantly such as FutureLogic’s GEN3 Evolution printer, GEN2 reducing the traffic Universal™ printer, and TableXchange at the cash cage and printer/scanner. eliminating the need to replenish chips at GEN3 Evolution Printer table games. The GEN3 Evolution printer was developed specifically with promotional couponing in mind. Visit us at G2E This printer is the first to offer an optional on-board booth 4041 or our promotional system module to create separate and website at secure processing environments for both TITO and futurelogic-inc.com. promotional couponing. An advanced temperature
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ONLINE NEWS Evolution Live Casino for 888
volution Gaming has launched a new, fully dedicated Live Casino environment for E888.com. The new area, constructed at Evolution’s state-of-the-art production studios in Riga, is fully dedicated in that it features both dedicated 888 branding and a dedicated 888 dealer team. Created as a ‘physical’ room, the area has been built to 888’s precise specifications, complete with branded wall panelling, carpet and lighting. A dedicated team of around 50 male and female dealers – all attired in 888-branded uniforms and 100% devoted to 888 operations – will serve the This latest development follows an extension, in tables and interact with customers. A total of six July this year, to an agreement for Evolution to BetVictor acquires tables will be available initially, made up of one provide Live Casino games and services to 888 Live Roulette table and five Live Blackjack tables, worldwide. Botsphere one of which is VIP-branded for high rollers. Erez Sadan, Head of Casino at 888.com, said: ibraltar-based gaming “We were one of the first operators to explore the group Bet Victor has potential of an Evolution dedicated table and we Gannounced today that it have seen first-hand the ROI this approach can has acquired Botsphere, a UK- deliver. Opting for a fully dedicated room was the based provider of automated natural next step for us. This gives us full control trading solutions, for an over branding and the opportunity to maximise undisclosed sum. Botsphere was formed in 2005 by player time and loyalty through regular promotions the technology entrepreneurs Stewart Vassie & and by building even stronger relationships Julian Leach, who prior to Botsphere created and between our dealers and our customers.” subsequently sold Oddschecker, the world’s most successful odds checking site. Botsphere is based in London, with 14-full time employees and currently provides trading solutions to a number of gaming businesses including BetVictor, Betfair, BetFred, Boylesports and Offside Gaming. The acquisition is strategically significant to Bet Victor as it brings market leading technology and expertise in-house and provides the foundation from which the online and mobile gaming operator expects to deliver complete automated trading solutions across a number of sports over the next two years. Victor Chandler, Bet Victor Chairman, said: “We have been using Botsphere within our business for over four years and I have always been impressed by the team and their skill at providing us with exceptional technology solutions, which are now integral to our business. In recognising that to remain a world class, innovative gaming company we needed to be in control of our future technical development, strategically this acquisition was therefore the perfect solution.”
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ONLINE NEWS RocketPlay Betfair files Cyprus complaint launches with
etting exchange and online casino operator Betfair have, therefore, asked the Commission to review the matter Zynga has lodged a formal complaint with the European and engage with Cypriot authorities with the aim of BCommission regarding legislation recently passed in addressing the concerns raised in our complaint. nline and mobile Cyprus that it claims could lead to betting exchanges being Betfair declared that Cypriot authorities have justified the sports and casino prevented from operating in their current format. new legislation based on ‘unfounded and misinformed Ogames developer The new Cypriot law was adopted by the nation’s concerns’ that relate to a ‘supposed increased risk of money RocketPlay has signed a parliament on July 6 and could see betting operators and laundering as well as match-fixing’. However, the operator deal with fellow American firm Zynga exchanges prohibited from accepting cash transactions. said that authorities in the Mediterranean state have so far Incorporated that will see its new Betfair’s formal complaint states that any attempted ban been ‘unable to produce any evidence of increased risk of Sports Casino real-time play-for-fun on betting exchanges should been classed as a money laundering through exchanges’ in order to sportsbetting title launched via ‘discriminatory and disproportionate breach of European substantiate these claims as is required by European Union Zynga.com and Facebook. Union law’ as all other sportsbetting products are to remain law. RocketPlay, which was formerly unaffected. “To date, Betfair remains the only sportsbetting operator known as Gamingo, revealed that just- “Having played a constructive role in the preparatory that has actively engaged on the issue of match-fixing with a launched Sports Casino sees players phase of a draft Cypriot law, we were disappointed with the far-reaching memorandum of understanding for exchange of invited to place virtual wagers on a inclusion of elements within it that could unfairly information with the Cyprus Football Association in range of live global sports with odds discriminate [against] Betfair and, in any event, are clearly suspected cases,” read a statement from Betfair. “Betfair updated in real time. incompatible with European Union law,” said Martin will continue to attempt to operate in Cyprus while the Sports Casino also features slot and Cruddace, Chief Legal and Regulatory Officer for Betfair. “We complaint is heard by the Commission.” poker games, with participants currently able to virtually wager on professional and collegiate American football along with European and North American soccer games and baseball. Ice hockey and basketball are set to be added over the next few weeks. RocketPlay said that Sports Casino will appeal to the ‘highly sought-after male gamer demographic’ on Facebook, particularly as the popularity of social betting games grows, and has been developed with Rafa serves up ace with PokerStars future real-money wagering in mind. porting legend Rafa Nadal swaps his tennis racket for a smartphone in a new television advert for PokerStars that features the online poker company’s new Smobile poker app. The spot features Nadal engrossed in a game of poker on his smartphone as he walks the streets of Barcelona, totally unaware that scores of fans are quickly amassing and following his progress. The TV ad is one part of PokerStars’ global marketing campaign, which also sees Nadal make his debut for the brand in outdoor and online advertising across selected countries. The advert, unique behind-the-scenes footage, and photos are available to coincide with the launch. The campaign, which communicates the new relationship PokerStars has with Nadal, encourages fans of tennis and DoubleDown Casino launches sports to download the PokerStars Mobile App, available for iPhone®, iPad® or Android™ devices. Free-to-Play Bingo “I’m still quite new to playing poker and am focused on becoming a better player, so I really didn’t need to act very hard when shooting these scenes,” Nadal nternational Game Technology has announced the addition of Bingo to its suite said. “My friends know I’m naturally competitive, which has served me well in my of casino games in the DoubleDown Casino. Players can now compete in a tennis career, I’m hoping some of the skills I’ve developed on the court will help Isocial game with friends on Facebook or try to beat their own personal Bingo me improve my poker game.” bests. Unlike other sites that offer up a maximum of four carded game play, Alex Payne, Chief Marketing Officer of PokerStars, said: “Rafa is a highly DoubleDown Casino offers players up to 12 carded plays per round. Game competitive athlete, a strategic player and known for his integrity both on and off features include: multiple speeds of play to accommodate all skill levels; three the court. These qualities make him an ideal ambassador for PokerStars and a themed rooms including Art Deco, Fashionista or High Orbit, all unlocked; both compelling spokesperson for the game. Rafa’s endorsement helps correct some automatic and manual play options. of the misperceptions of the game, and emphasizes the great mix of Bingo joins DoubleDown Casino’s expansive casino-style games like Texas entertainment and skill in poker when played responsibly.” Hold’Em Poker as well as slot machine games that include some of IGT’s most The 30” TV spot aired globally beginning Monday September 10. iconic land-based slot titles such as Cleopatra and Da Vinci Diamonds.
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ONLINE NEWS 888 in talks for real-money LVS & Lotsys sign deal with ISBB gaming on Facebook LVS Ltd, a UK-based specialist of sports betting solutions, and Lotsys SAS, a French specialist of lottery and retail nline gaming giant 888 Holdings has confirmed that it is in discussions with Facebook to solutions, have announced that they have won the launch real-money gambling on the social network. The first real-money Facebook app was international tender issued by the Israel Sports Betting Orecently launched by Gamesys, regulated by the UK Gambling Commission and only available to Board (ISBB) in April 2011. The contract, signed July 26th players inside the UK. 2012, covers the supply of an Internet betting system with Brian Mattingley, 888 CEO, said: “Whether we will be accepted and whether the overall strategy of an option for an extension to replace ISBB’s overall betting Facebook is to develop real money gaming remains to be seen. I think they are yet to decide, although system, for both retail and digital channels. Gamesys has been successful and I don’t see any reason why other operators shouldn’t be Zach Fishbein, Chairman of ISBB said: ‘We have made successful.” the choice of the modernity and flexibility with LVS and While Facebook is keeping quiet about its plans to develop a real-money gaming sector, the Lotsys. We have chosen partners that will keep ISBB at the company’s recent IPO has opened the door to alternative methods of revenue growth. As casino cutting edge of technology and help deliver nothing but the themes are the most popular games on the social network, led by Zynga, both Facebook and online best service to our customers.’ gaming operators are realising the potential. With the LVS Advanced Betting Platform (ABP) and Lotsys Many companies are sitting tight and waiting for online gaming in the US to create a potential solutions, ISBB has selected a complete multi-channel goldmine, which could benefit Facebook if it decides to enter the market. The company currently takes system based on sophisticated and open sports betting 30 percent of the cost of transactions made within Facebook apps. software. Itshak Lary, CEO of ISBB confirmed ‘This is a state Facebook has clarified that the agreement with UK-based Gamesys is not a joint venture, but rather of the art, robust, scalable and service oriented solution. It a private commercial agreement. The company however, would not confirm if Gamesys was subject to will attract new punters by enlarging their options and same 30 percent rate, claiming that it is “commercially sensitive information.” offers.’ Scientific Games to Microgaming offer Barcrest leads in
he Gaming division of Scientific Games to LBOs across the country, The Global Draw has compatibility Corporation, which includes The Global also focused over the past six months on TDraw, Barcrest and Games Media, will now increasing its roulette offering, with the launch of icrogaming is leading the egaming industry in offer Barcrest’s renowned games exclusively, titles such as Keybet and Hot Shot Roulette, mobile innovation by offering the largest number among UK Licenced Betting Office (LBO) giving players access to additional features within Mof games that are compatible across all mobile operators, to those with The Global Draw the traditional roulette game. The latest feature- platforms. Its two newest HTML5 games launches are terminals. This includes a player favourite, rich games have been developed for both Ladies Nite and Spring Break. Rainbow Riches Pots of Gold, which is one of the traditional players and fans of more feature- Microgaming has set the gold standard for mobile industry’s most recognised slot’s games. based games, which continue to be player gaming in the market with a greater depth and breadth of Scientific Games’ acquisition of Barcrest last favourites. products and games available than its competitors. It year bolstered the division’s acclaimed in-house Rick Mountney, Director of Content launched its first mobile casino in 2004 and it is now content, and is expected to give The Global Draw’s Development for the Gaming division, supplying 42 leading brands with its mobile products. It customers a competitive edge. Enhanced content commented: “We have worked hard to develop offers 75 games in total on mobile, across all platforms, is one of the benefits derived from combining the our in-house content and the addition of the including casino, poker, and QuickFire, powered by three gaming businesses. Barcrest games library further strengthens our Microgaming. This includes HTML5 games featuring some Continuing its drive to bring innovative content position in UK LBOs.” of the most popular Microgaming slots including the world renowned Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Thunderstruck and Mermaids Millions. SIS to supply Bodog Neill Whyte, Head of Product Channels at Microgaming, ews and sports coverage provider Satellite betting shows and results. says: “We are market leaders in mobile gaming and intend Information Services (SIS) has signed a deal Bodog is the latest online gaming domain to to stay in the number 1 spot by providing custom-made Nthat will see it provide its SISdata365 sign up for the SISdata365 service following a solutions for premier brands. Our two newest HTML5 games horseracing information feed service to the online similar agreement recently with RaceBets.com, a are a great addition to our already large portofolio of mobile casino and sportsbook at Bodog.co.uk. German bookmaker based in Malta. games.” SIS, which is part-owned by leading bookmakers “UK and Irish horseracing is a premium As well as its highly regarded casino games, Microgaming Ladbrokes, William Hill and the Tote, stated that product and this agreement further underlines is gearing up for the imminent launch of Blaze Mobile, Bodog.co.uk will now be able to offer customers that,” said Dominic Atkinson, Head of Betting which will offer its popular fast-fold poker game variant to information on UK and Irish horse races including Business for SIS, which has offices in Salford and players, and soon-to-be introduced Mobile Bingo. race-day going and non-runners alongside live Milton Keynes.
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INVIGORATE YOUR SPORTSBOOK Innovation in customer engagement Sportsbetting companies are enjoying a golden period of growth, but there are still ways of supplementing this success through the implementation of new and exciting product models. David Galan, Chairman of Picklive, discusses the latest ways operators can invigorate their sportsbetting business.
he European online sportsbetting industry in order to accurately and sufficiently cater to the has rarely been in ruder health. The near growing ambitiousness of the end-user’s simultaneous rise of in-play betting and entertainment standards. mobile technology has ushered in a new Tperiod of revenue generation that is set to Invigorating your business overwhelm certain analyst forecasts of an Just as the dying embers of summer act as fertile international market (excluding the US) worth $13.4 ground for Europe’s soccer clubs in freshening up billion by 2015 (source: H2 Gambling Capital, their squads for the new season, so too do they February 2011). provide an opportunity for operators to reinvigorate This growth has been further bolstered by a their business through the implementation of new summer that has included a successful Euro 2012 product models. football championships and a London Olympics that The regular introduction of new product sets, be has seen operators taking up to five times the they betting markets (such as new in-play markets on expected amount of bets – William Hill, for instance, sports) or the introduction of new affiliated products, took more than a million bets on London 2012 while as it the thrust of this article, help to service the its close rival, Ladbrokes, reported that its turnover fundamental requirements of retention (enhancing had increased 400 percent on the Beijing Olympics. your existing customer’s playing experience), Adding to this, Sporting Index reported that a third acquisition (providing a new vehicle to market) and of all of its bets taken on the Olympics were via also in re-engaging lapsed customers with a product mobile devices, making London 2012 something of a they won’t find elsewhere. welcome anomaly where Olympic betting is One of the newest forms of innovation in this traditionally concerned. regard comes in the form of ‘live fantasy football’ With such levels of growth and with new which seeks to turn the traditional fantasy sports technology helping companies extend their reach to model on its head by marrying it with the in-play new demographics, you’d be forgiven for thinking betting concept. The premise is that the ‘live’ or ‘in- that innovation for the sportsbetting product had play’ aspect runs as a form of ‘second screen reached something of a plateau. But ours is an entertainment’ to the core ‘season long’ model and industry that has rarely stood idle for long and bears also allows for the expansion of the offering beyond the concept of innovation as its raison d’être. The soccer to sports such as cricket and American consumer demands it of the industry, and it is crucial Football. It is a fusion of sportsbetting, in-play that the industry continues to demand more of itself engagement and, importantly, social-style gaming which is continuing its rapid convergence with the real money gambling environment. It is because of these combined factors that I believe the second screen entertainment model to be ripe with growth opportunities for companies offering sports products to market. Indeed, we need only look at the lottery and bingo sectors to see how this concept can be of
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INVIGORATE YOUR SPORTSBOOK
supplemental benefit to the operator. Both sectors employ the use of side games (casino, slots, scratch cards, etc) to great effect as non-core revenue generators, in operators they serve and investing their resources some cases into ensuring that new products are always on the contributing conveyor belt. more revenue Picklive’s live fantasy football solution is the latest than the core and most innovative product on that conveyor belt product itself. But above this, it gives players a reason and can provide operators an entirely unique to return to an operator’s site, providing a more addition to their product verticals that their rounded entertainment experience and inspiring the customers will not find anywhere else in the gaming kind of loyalty that is a priceless commodity in this industry. fiercely competitive marketplace. The live fantasy sports model is also a perfect fit for the US market, and particularly for those land-based entities seeking an effective route to market in the online space. As the various US states consider their relationship with iGaming after the Department of Justice’s December 2011 opinion that the 1961 Wire Act relates only to sportsbetting, and with the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (which effectively prohibits sports wagering in all US states bar Delaware, Montana, Nevada and Oregon) still federally active, the fantasy sports model offers land-based gaming companies a perfect model to integrate into their online operations. Building for the future For existing online operators, it gives them a vital For land-based and online gaming operators, the USP in the delivery of their brand and products to future sportsbetting market is one laden with their active customers, creating a more sophisticated opportunity that can only be enhanced through the and, more importantly, a ‘fun’ product to engage new addition of innovative product markets and solutions. and potential players. For European companies, the ongoing development of in-play and mobile will continue to shape the Choosing the right partner market into the future, with more people enjoying In any form of business, ensuring you partner with greater access to a larger amount of markets on a the right suppliers is of critical importance to the growing number of devices. The desktop market too success of your offering. In understanding the will continue to build and the signs are that betting potential of the second screen entertainment companies with a land-based presence aren’t concept, our acquisition of Picklive meant that we experiencing the cannibalisation that many US were investing in what we believe to be a huge future lottery retail outlets, for example, are fearing by their growth market. Indeed, supplier partners should be state lottery’s move online. making the same commitments to innovation as the In the US, the future is still developing, with intra- state legislation being implemented and considered all across the country. Innovation here will be key to success, as will the choice of partner for the products that companies serve to their state markets. The fantasy sports industry is already a huge national market and land-based companies can make a serious imprint in the new regulated landscape by providing innovative products to market and gaining a valuable USP that can engender that all important loyalty and trust. In turning fantasy sports on its head, live fantasy football can be the product that differentiates you from the competition.
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SOCIAL GAMING Entering the social gaming space It seems as if everyone is trying to get ‘Social Gaming’ right. Some are successful, many others are not. Matt Broughton talks to a specialist in the field, ThinkManagement.com’s Phil Shaw.
ver recent months, social gaming has solutions for the online gaming industry. The become a hot topic as Facebook Poker, company delivers a range of services to brands all Fantasy Football, Virtual Worlds and the over the globe, including free play solutions, social use of Twitter for social gaming has media communication strategies, selecting and Oincreased in popularity. Advances in launching software partners, managing legislation modern technology mean that it has become much change and exploring new territories. The company easier for gaming brands to enter the social gaming also covers all core areas of marketing specifically for space as they can now simply take a white label and online gaming organisations, such as building build it into their existing strategy. This is a lucrative brands, strategy, customer acquisition and retention, opportunity for companies, and has introduced a new staff development courses, VIP management and type of gamer. However, online gaming strategy creative. specialists, ThinkManagement.com, believe that many gaming companies are failing to take advantage of Headed by Phil Shaw, ThinkManagament.com is this new accessibility and are risking losing out to a made up of a team of experienced individuals with new breed of competitors. extensive skills and expertise in software, research, “Social gaming offers a fantastic opportunity to internet, risk management, mobile, payments and strategy developments. The team has been involved in the online space since 1998 and has a detailed “Companies just don’t seem understanding of how to generate the best results from online gaming. Past projects have devised and to realise how important it is delivered strategies featuring online casinos, bingo to move with the times” “They are failing to see that it has become much generate revenue and brand awareness,” says easier for gaming brands ThinkManagement.com Director, Phil Shaw,” to enter the social gaming However, companies are reluctant to adopt this medium, as they simply don’t realise how easy it is. space” Many of our clients have a fear of entering this space and it’s down to a lack of understanding and internal IT bottlenecks. We are able to demonstrate how and prize draw operations including free play, cash straightforward building a social gaming platform can play, online, mobile and television for some of the be, by taking the white label of a proven and tested industries biggest names including Netplay TV product and tailoring it to a client’s own PLC, Parlay Games Inc., Playtech, BetFred and requirements.” Virtue Fusion. Shaw’s company – Shaw himself has a wealth of experience. While based in the North- running his own media and marketing agency he West of England - became interested in working in the online space and specialises in offering developed a large interactive agency specialising bespoke consultancy, internet, mobile and creative. This lead to the strategic marketing exploration of the many ways brands can engage with and management their customers online through the emerging social
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channels, and he soon identified a gap in the market for an online gaming consultancy. With the current trend for social gaming growing in popularity, Phil believes that land-based and traditional online gaming companies now need expert assistance more than ever: “We speak to gaming companies every day that simply do not have any form of serious social gaming strategy. This is a concern in these fast-moving times, particularly with the huge volumes of traffic involved and social platforms creating their own currencies. Facebook’s recent announcement to allow real cash often restricted by IT departments who don’t have play on its platform is another sign of how gaming the time or resources to invest in a social gaming companies will need to embrace changing customer solution. ThinkManagement.com try to demonstrate behaviour.” how straightforward building a social gaming strategy can be, by taking a white label of a proven and tested product or starting off with a solid social network “The industry needs to be communications plan can really add to the bottom far more creative than they line. The consultancy can also offer an audit service have been in the past” to identify possible gaps and then create a bespoke “Social gaming offers a “Companies just don’t seem to realise how important it is to move with the times. They have fantastic opportunity to their established traditional online gaming platforms generate revenue and and think that that’s sufficient – but in reality all manner of companies are now utilising social gaming brand awareness” and there is a real risk that the operators can be left behind and loose out financially. They are failing to see that it has become much easier for gaming team to work on the project. Often, the partners brands to enter the social gaming space. One option already have a long standing relationship with is to simply take a white label and build it into their ThinkManagement.com, however sometimes new existing strategy where a solution can still carry companies are sought depending on the project. unique features and appropriate branding, but avoids “In order to stay one step ahead, the industry the large setup costs.” needs to be far more creative than they have been in Shaw believes that there is a fear within the the past,” says Shaw. “Our expertise raises awareness industry about the logistics of entering the social of how social gaming is impacting on the industry, gaming space, suggesting that traditional online and gives the traditional online operators a starting operators often have a lack of understanding and are point for developing a strategy.”
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PLAYSINO Making it happen: Social Casino Increasingly, a larger percentage of Facebook social gamers are turning to casino games. Entrepreneur Brock Pierce is set to capitalize on this trend, with the creation of the Playsino Publishing network. Matt Broughton investigates.
n a recent VentureBeat report it was stated that in 2012 social casino game players account for 13 percent of all of the players on Facebook, compared to just 8 percent in 2011 and 6 Ipercent in 2010. Kontagent, a top user analytics platform in the social space, notes that social casino games have higher-than-average revenue per user, at least 40 percent higher than a typical casual social game. They also note that out of 780 million social game participants, 98 million are active players for Exchange, Xfire, EverTune, RevenueAPEX, and Spicy social casino games. Horse Games. This Summer Playsino announced the launch of Pierce is a co-founder of Titan Gaming and the Playsino Publishing Network. This would be the assumed the role of CEO in November, 2011. Titan is only publishing network solely focused on helping a game developer and publisher of social casino social casino developers acquire and monetize social games for Facebook and mobile platforms. Titan’s casino gamers on Facebook and mobile platforms, investors include Eric Schmidt’s Tomorrow Ventures offering its developer partners a minimum marketing and many of Southern California’s most successful spend of at least $100,000 per title along with a entrepreneurs. dedicated media buying team and game production Prior to entering the game business, Pierce co- support. founded Digital Entertainment Network (DEN), one At the time of the launch, Head of Playsino of the first and most ambitious web television Publishing said: “Our focus will give our partners companies. DEN raised more than $88 million from access to gamers who are specifically interested in investors including Microsoft, Intel Capital and NBC. casino style games and monetize better than all other Pierce began his career as a successful Hollywood casual social games.” actor, starring or appearing in twelve major motion Playsino is led by Brock Pierce, an entrepreneur pictures, including The Mighty Ducks and First Kid, best known for pioneering the as well as many commercials. market for virtual goods in Pierce generally plays the role of strategist and online games (Pierce is often dealmaker in each company after attracting the referred to as the “Godfather management teams and capital. He is an active angel of Virtual Goods”). He has investor, a founding mentor of the Founder Institute’s founded eight companies, LA Chapter, and a member of SoCal Tech and Media acquired more than 30 Entertainment Technology Alliance. Pierce is an companies, and closed a dozen active supporter of non-profit and advocacy corporate finance transactions, organizations and is a member of Clinton Global securing more than $200 Initiative. million on behalf of his Both Wired and Fortune have written lengthy companies. He is currently biographical feature stories on Pierce’s career. In CEO of Playsino (formerly addition, he has been a guest Titan Gaming), Managing lecturer at Stanford, UCLA Director of the Clearstone and USC, as well as many Global Gaming Fund, and he video game and sits on the boards of IMI entrepreneurial conferences
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Casino International Online caught up with Brock to talk about the Playsino Publishing Network:
Casino International Online (CIO): How did you originally find yourself in the world of online gaming? Brock Pierce (BP): I’ve been following the space since the advent of the Internet in the mid ’90s, and I development, combined with my thesis, prompted me became very interested in the business in the early to enter the business in 2011 by founding Playsino. 2000s, but never got comfortable enough to enter the business due to regulatory concerns. This all CIO: What approach do you think you need changed after the 2008 financial crisis when I uniquely for this area of business? formed the opinion that the liberalization of online BP: I think you need strong studio capabilities when gaming was coming. This was due to Western making games. I don’t think you can outsource this governments needing new sources of revenue, and and still be best in class. You need media buying and due to the reason that land-based operators no user acquisition skills. The largest expense in social longer saw it as something that was going to and mobile casino games is advertising. The last is a cannibalize their business. Rather, operators saw it as deeply analytical way of understanding everything one that could augment it. Not knowing specifically that goes into your business. This business is about when and how it would occur, I came to the data analytics and constant iteration. The product is conclusion that social casino games, meaning free-to- never finished. play casino style video games, was the best way to play this trend. These businesses — with the CIO: What process do you go through to evaluate explosive growth of Facebook and mobile platforms who to help/get involved with? — had BP: You talk to everyone you can and get advice from incredible those people you trust, with the hope you will pick reach, as well the right partners. as an ability to monetize with CIO: Exactly what kind of virtual advice/service are you currency, offering partners that come which is a to you? business I BP: We know there is talent knew well. They out there. People who had the ability to do this while amassing enormous innovative and make fantastic audiences that monetized with an ability to convert games as a result. Given the some of these users into online gambling products competitive nature of the when the markets opened. This resulted in my business, however, many of founding Playsino in 2011, as well as making a these smaller developers lack number of investments in other companies taking the resources to drive users advantage of this trend. towards their game. That is a shame when a game, which CIO: What have been the biggest changes you’ve would have been an outright seen in your time? success, ends up languishing BP: There have been many. The market has already in obscurity till it becomes obsolete. The quick evolved through a few cycles, and the barriers to innovation cycle of this business doesn’t leave much entry continue to rise. room for errors of this sort. So, developers need to reach critical mass quickly. This is where CIO: What excites you about this sector right Playsino Publishing can help: We help our partners now? reach this critical mass quickly. We are, however, very BP: I am excited about mobile gaming and Facebook selective about whom we work with and we only work being enormous and untapped markets for online with Social Casino style games, such as slots, poker, gambling. Facebook recently allowed the first bingo, mahjong, etc. We do this since we have very gambling game to launch on their platform in the UK strong competencies in this area and our able to and mobile is going to be a massive market that’s still leverage our existing asset base. We are the only in its infancy when it comes to gambling. publisher to specialize in this area.
CIO: At what point did social networking/gaming CIO: Where do you see this area of business being catch your eye? in five years’ time? BP: I come from the video game business. So, I BP: I see social and mobile casino games as the naturally saw the first games like Zynga poker, and primary method of acquiring users for real money then others, start to have meaningful success. That gaming online.
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WHO’S WHO Who’s who: Rob Wheeler
This month: Rob Wheeler, Commercial Director, Cozy Games
hen did you first get Winvolved with the gaming Favourite… industry? I started in the land-based Pastime: Coaching Rugby gaming industry back in 2003. Band: U2 Book: The Girl with the Dragon What are you responsible for Tattoo at Cozy Games? Drink: a glass of good I am responsible for driving new Malbec or Adnams business and looking after new Explorer Bitter and existing customer relationships.
What attracted you to this sector? I saw the exponential growth of online gaming and decided I wanted to move across from land-based in 2005; when IGT bought WagerWorks that same year it Sport: Rugby Union flagged them to me as the content provider to join. I started with WW (now IGT Interactive) in 2006.
What were you doing prior to the gaming industry? Sportsbooks are reporting up to 50%+ of revenue is Prior to gaming I’d worked for a Telecoms Software now coming from mobile, and casino is following suit. provider. In 2003 the bottom had fallen out of the Tablet and mobile devices will be the “new online”. Telco market and I was looking to move. I met up with (my now good friend) Rob Dowling, And what are the negative ones – the obstacles to CEO of Pentasia and he told me about a role he had growth? on his books with a land-based gaming software Navigating regulatory requirements, of course. For company that had its headquarters in Guildford (20 mobile specifically there is still work to be done; mins drive from where I live), Research and managing the wide variety of handsets is a challenge Development based in St. Petersburg, Russia and but one that Cozy relishes. Getting affiliates Offices in Bogota, Columbia and I thought… well, comfortable with driving traffic to mobile is a key that sounds interesting, I’ll have some of that!. challenge, get that right and revenues will explode!
What have been the biggest changes you’ve seen Looking at your entire career, what do you think in your time? was your smartest move? Well for the industry UEIGA certainly closely Moving from the land-based gaming industry to followed by the onset of regulated markets. I online in 2006. remember hearing Professor I. Nelson Rose give a keynote speech at GIGSE 2006 in Montreal, it was And dumbest? titled “The Leviathan Is Coming” he was warning the Mmmm, which one to choose… probably selling a then .com gaming industry that regulation was digital poker table to a very scary looking Serbian coming and coming soon. The audience (especially and then agreeing to go with it to Belgrade for the the US-facing businesses) paid little attention as they three month trial (well, you should have seen the had had it so good for so long, he was right on the croupier). Luckily the deal fell through! money! Forgive the pun. Where do you hope you’ll be, professionally, in What are the biggest positive factors for the ten years’ time? mobile gaming sector right now? Working remotely from a nice yacht sipping Krug. The paradigm shift from online to mobile.
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One to rule them all? As Europe’s confusion of e-gaming regulation claims its first victim, there are calls for more consistency. Barnaby Page reports on this legal quagmire
ife would be easier for everyone if online Poker in the US on a state-by-state basis Tom, Executive Vice President of Global Sales regulators from different European than nationwide, the CEO of International at IGT. countries collaborated on producing Game Technology (IGT) has warned. mutually compatible rules for e- Patti Hart spoke out following the closure of Social spending Lgaming, the Remote Gambling IGT’s European e-Poker operation, just a year The first real-money gaming product is now Association (RGA) says. after it paid $115m for Swedish Poker provider up and running on Facebook. Bingo & Slots Currently, what’s allowed and what’s not Entraction, saying that restrictions on cross- Friendzy is operated by Gibraltar’s Gamesys as can vary dramatically from one territory to an extension of its Jackpotjoy operation, and another. But “market fragmentation of this available only to British users over 18. kind makes regulatory compliance less The difficulties of Said Jackpotjoy Managing Director Michael efficient; increases regulatory burden for operating bespoke Saunders: “As the UK’s leading online instant regulators; is detrimental to consumer value; win and Bingo operator we are committed to and may lead to the satisfaction of services for each extending our products to a wider adult consumer demand by providers established territory could be audience. We’ve reinvented our exclusive Bingo outside the European Economic Area or and slots games to appeal to the UK Facebook completely unregulated providers”, repeated in the US community. This marks an exciting turning according to the RGA. point for the industry and a milestone for the So the trade body has issued a set of model border play had “shifted [the model] from dot- Gamesys business.” guidelines, citing a report last year by the com to dot-country”. Meanwhile, Zynga – the dominant provider European Parliament’s Internal Market and And the difficulties of operating bespoke of free-to-play games on Facebook – has invited Consumer Protection Committee that services for each territory could be repeated in tenders for a real-money Poker platform, with suggested regulators should work more the US, where the Department of Justice has Gtech G2 and Playtech among those believed closely together. reinterpreted the Wire Act to allow Poker and to be interested in providing it. The firm is “As countries are essentially licensing the other casino games on the Internet – as long as meanwhile reported to have been in talks with same products and businesses, logic dictates they are not played across state lines. the Wynn in Las Vegas about a partnership that that in most cases they should adopt similar However, despite this setback, IGT appears could see its brands make their first steps into regulatory measures, such as those set out in deeply committed to online. It will continue the offline world. our guidelines,” says RGA CEO Clive to offer Bingo, slots and sports betting via The move to real-money Poker is a logical Hawkswood. the Internet in Europe, it has added free one for Zynga given the enormous success of The 49-page document covers issues Bingo to its DoubleDown Casino both on its free-to-play Poker game on Facebook. And including system architecture, account Facebook and its own Website, and it is also perhaps real-money sports betting could be security, use of customer data, self-exclusion, extending its partnerships with land-based next: Zynga has also teamed up with prevention of under-age gambling, complaints, venues. RocketPlay to create a new virtual-currency generation of random outcomes, game Most recently, the Bonanza Casino in Reno, sportsbook. fairness, jackpots, and anti-money-laundering Nevada and the Hard Rock in Las Vegas have “Sports Casino delivers an authentic virtual measures. signed up to put DoubleDown on their own sports-betting experience to social gaming and sites. sports fans,” said Mani Honigstein, CEO of Double trouble “Engaging through the Website allows players RocketPlay. “We’re thrilled to launch with The RGA is not the only one concerned by to remain connected to the property they know Zynga’s support – it’s a company that has set fragmentation of e-gaming regulation: and trust, with DoubleDown Casino simply the social gaming benchmark.” operators may find it a lot harder to implement providing the gaming entertainment,” said Eric
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