OCTOBER
Contents IN EVERY ISSUE 04 EDITOR’S NOTE 06 PLAYERS TALK 08 NEW SLOTS 16 TABLE GAMES 20 FEATURE STORY 22 ARIZONA LOTTERY 24 TRAVEL 26 GAMING NEWS 30 LAUGHLIN, NEVADA 32 CASINO ENTERTAINMENT 34 SAMI’S SMACKDOWN 36 FUN & GAMES
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38 CASINO DIRECTORY
“LET’S PLAY!” IGT HAS PLENTY OF NEW SLOTS TO PRESENT DURING G2E 2017!
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22
24
Based on the TV show, this new slot at Talking Stick Resort will entertain and pay out with four progressives!
New Precious Metals game allows players a chance at big prizes and huge jackpots on a four game ticket!
Las Vegas-style casino action, award winning dining, and more. The perfect choice for a weekend getaway!
WACKY RACES BY SCIENTIFIC GAMES
SECOND SUPER TICKET SCRATCHERS DEBUTS
ROUTE 66 CASINO HOTEL NEAR ALBUQUERQUE
azgamingguide.com | October 2017 | Arizona Gaming Guide
03
EDITOR’S NOTE
G2E 2017 IS HERE!
Your Authority On Everything Gaming
We Can’t Wait To Play All The New Slots!
VOLUME 09 • ISSUE 10 MANAGING DIRECTOR Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com
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he first week in October will be spent playing hundreds of brand new slots at the Global Gaming Expo 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. I’m already drooling like one of Pavlov’s dogs! I guess that may be an indication that I love playing slots a little too much, but I can’t help but react to the excitement. Take a look at the slot preview we arranged with IGT in our feature story. We’ll let all of our readers know about which slots to watch for in the coming year as these brand new games are slowly introduced to Arizona’s casinos! Thanks to our readers for always providing us with feedback about our magazine. We appreciate you and are grateful for your loyalty. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know what you think and keep all of your questions rolling in. We get a lot of them, both handwritten and emailed, so it may take a while to get back to all of you, but we do love reading them, and responding. And, while we select some for publication by committee, we are working on being able to share all of them with all of you! Stay tuned! Please visit our Facebook at: Facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide, become part of our community and share your thoughts and experiences with others who also love the same casino games you do. You can sign up for our e-newsletter and find current and back issues of the Arizona Gaming Guide on our website at AZGamingGuide.com. Let me know what you think of this issue and have fun! Thank You!
Alexandra
Alexandra Lang Editor-in-Chief editor@azgamingguide.com
“Like” us on Facebook because
we “Like” you too!
PUBLISHER Chris Höft chris@azgamingguide.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alexandra Lang editor@azgamingguide.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Mueller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Al Moe Matt Probst Mark Novak TJ Jorgensen Megan Conner Lana Hartmann Samantha Becker ADVERTISING SALES Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com Nina Consiglio nina@azgamingguide.com MAILING INFORMATION Arizona Gaming Guide P.O. Box 20636 Mesa, Arizona 85277 INTERNET INFORMATION www.azgamingguide.com www.facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide Copyright © 2017 The Arizona Gaming Guide. All rights reserved. The Arizona Gaming Guide (AGG) presents casino industry and gaming related facts and editorial opinions. AGG accepts no responsibility and no liability for any actions of readers based on articles and/or advertisements presented within. Information contained within is not guaranteed to be correct. All pictures, images, logos, trademarks and trade names, etc. are the sole property of their respective owners. Intended for single use. Sale and/or distribution in any form without consent is not permitted. You must be 21 or older to gamble. Please play responsibly. Help is available at 1.800.NEXT.STEP or problemgambling.az.gov.
Arizona’s State Gaming Regulatory Agency: Arizona Department of Gaming 1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 450, Phoenix, 85007 1.602.771.4263 or azgaming.gov
www.facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide 04 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
Tribal Gaming Funded Problem Gambling Resource: Division of Problem Gambling 1.800.NEXT.STEP or 1.800.639.8783 1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 450, Phoenix, 85007 1.602.542.8998 or problemgambling.az.gov
PLAYERS TALK
Q: I just found your magazine [the July 2017 issue] at Lone Butte Casino and enjoyed reading the publication. I found the article on slots very informative. Even better, I got on your website and found all the back issues to read. That was cool! I read the other five articles on slots and really enjoyed the information provided in those articles. Keep up the good work that you and your staff provide! Do you have any articles about playing roulette? That is all I play at the casino. Can someone provide some strategies on how to play roulette? Please let me know if you received this email. I am old and not very good on the computer.
wagers pay 1 to 1. Gambling on columns or sections (12 numbers) pays 2 to 1. From this information, we can calculate the probabilities of a winner, how often a win occurs, and the House Edge for each wager. Referring to the table below, notice the House Edge is the same for every wager except the 5 number wager! Essentially, a player should make any wager they choose except the 5 number bet. Based on the results listed in the table below, the game of Roulette breaks down to deciding how often you’d like to enjoy a win. The more numbers you select in a bet, the more often you’ll have a winner. Picking a wager of six numbers, the table indicates a player will win on average, over the long run (tens of thousands of spins), about once every 6.3 spins. Betting on the column 13 to 24 results in a win once every 3.2 spins over the long run.
Rich Tarnopolski—Gilbert, AZ A: Thank you for your kind comments Rich! We are glad you received so much enjoyment out of all of our issues. As you know, a Roulette wheel has 38 individual pockets where the ball can land. Those numbers include 1 through 36, 0 and 00. 0 and 00 are green in color, the remaining 36 numbers are half red and half black.
If you are playing Roulette with pays which are lower in one or more categories from those listed in the table, beware that the House Edge will increase on those particular wagers. Our recommendation would be to not place those wagers on that game.
Until the Tribal Gaming Compacts are amended in some way to include live Roulette, you’ll only find electronic versions of the game in Arizona’s casinos. The staff here prefers to play electronic Roulette which uses an actual wheel and ball, not just a screen simulation. The experience is just that much closer to a real Roulette table in a Las Vegas casino!
Over the years we have heard wild theories about Roulette wheels not being “fair” and giving an advantage to the house and/or to players at certain times. Those theories are bunk. All electronic Roulette games are statistically tested by the manufacturer, then the gaming commission, and also by an independent third party. There’s no room for cheating here. Similarly,
Wagering on an individual number (00,0, or 1-36) pays 35 to 1. WAGER
NUMBERS
PAY
WINNER
WIN ONCE EVERY
HOUSE EDGE
Red / Black / Odd / Even / 1 to 18 / 19 to 36
18
1
47.3684%
2.1 spins
5.2632%
1 to 12 / 13 to 24 / 25 to 36
12
2
31.5789%
3.2 spins
5.2632%
6 numbers
6
5
15.7895%
6.3 spins
5.2632%
5 numbers
5
6
13.1579%
7.6 spins
7.8947%
4 numbers
4
8
10.5263%
9.5 spins
5.2632%
3 numbers
3
11
7.8947%
12.7 spins
5.2632%
2 numbers
2
17
5.2632%
19 spins
5.2632%
1 number
1
35
2.6316%
38 spins
5.2632%
Betting on two numbers pays 17 to 1. Gambling on three numbers pays 11 to 1. Risking on four numbers pays 8 to 1. Putting on five numbers pays 6 to 1. Staking your bet on six numbers pays 5 to 1. You can also bet on the colors, odd or even numbers, the first 18 numbers, the last 18 numbers, and so on. Those
there are no wagering schemes which will help you “beat” Roulette. Nor can you combine different types of bets (betting on 6 numbers and on Black) in order to “win” over the House Edge. Did you know the numbers 1 to 36 add to 666? Good Luck! $
and get a $25 gift or gas card if we decide to print your question! Do you have a question for our staff of casino gaming industry professionals and slot experts? Write us with your questions and comments in any area of gaming and we will make every attempt to publish a response in upcoming issues. Space is limited so we are unable to print every letter or e-mail we receive. Please include your name and mailing address with all correspondence. Mail to: Arizona Gaming Guide PO BOX 20636 Mesa, AZ 85277 or E-mail to: editor@azgamingguide.com.
06 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
NEW SLOTS
Crazy Money II Now At BlueWater Resort & Casino In Parker
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he most popular game in Incredible Technologies’ slot history, Crazy Money, is back in a much anticipated sequel! Crazy Money II is 15 lines of winning fun and maintains all of the same easy-to-understand gameplay of the original in addition to new bonus innovations and a 4-level progressive. Crazy Money II also features the familiar Good, Better, Best betting options where players are encouraged to increase their bet level for the best odds of winning big. Three, four or five bonus scatters triggers the Wheel Bonus in which players head into a bank vault to spin a wheel to determine which bonus will be played. Crazy Money fans will surely recognize the Money Catch Bonus round as it maintains all of the fun and excitement of the original game. Players must grab flying dollar bills which reveal their credit value once touched. The luck of the wheel spin may instead fall on The Mint Bonus which initiates a free spin round with a new 3x3 reel array featuring only the top four symbols. Players are rooting for five or more gold coins to land on the reels as they are collected for a chance to win one of the four CRAZY progressive prizes. For more on Incredible Technologies visit ITSGames.com. For more on BlueWater Resort & Casino, visit BlueWaterFun.com. $
Wacky Races Now At Talking Stick Resort
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ump in your race car, get to the starting line, and speed off into the world of Wacky Races. Based on the classic, animated television series, Wacky Races features races where adventure and hilarity ensues among colorful competitors and their equally colorful and quirky race cars. Showcased on the ALPHA Pro Theatre, the races come alive on this engaging package featuring two award-winning Alpha 2 Pro Wave gaming cabinets, a 55” theater display and Bally Pro Sound Chairs. The central bonus feature of this game is a wild Wacky Race. Once achieved, the characters are off, racing around a track that dramatically utilizes all three screens, but does not interrupt the game of the other player. Depending on which character is victorious, one of the bonus features is activated, such as Professor Pat’s Wheel Bonus Spin or Muttley’s Wacky Scrap Yard Pick Bonus. There is a new adventure around every turn, so put the pedal to the metal and be prepared to be entertained. This slot is installed as a penny game with a 50 credit minimum bet and features a Wacky Races Better Bonus Bet of 25 credits. The max bet is 300 credits. For more information on this and other Scientific Games slots, visit their website at SGGaming.com. For more information on Talking Stick Resort, visit their website at TalkingStickResort.com. $
08 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
Coming Soon
NEW SLOTS
Extreme Thunderstorm By Aruze Gaming
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he newest series in the Cube-X Vertical 80 family is a force of nature! Extreme Thunderstorm–Diamond Noir and Extreme Thunderstorm–Gilded Treasures are five reel, three row video games with 30 pay lines, Bonus Wheel, Super Free Games, Jackpot Wheel, four level progressives and four fixed jackpot bonus prizes. Both titles are generally set at a penny denomination. Three bonus symbols on reels 1, 3, and 5 trigger the Bonus Wheel. The Bonus Wheel will award either credits, Super Free Games, or the Jackpot Wheel. Super Free Games expand to 12 rows and 120 lines. Each free game will have between 1 and 5 wild reels. The Jackpot Wheel spins once and will award either a progressive jackpot or a fixed jackpot bonus prize. This powerful game will give you an electrifying experience! Expect some serious volatility with these games as players have the potential to win big. Watch your wins be multiplied by 100! For more information about this game and other exciting Aruze Gaming slots, visit Aruze-Gaming.com. $
azgamingguide.com | October 2017 | Arizona Gaming Guide
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NEW SLOTS
Coming Soon
Ellen-Sharing The Love By IGT
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he Ellen DeGeneres Show Sharing The Love Video Slots can now be enjoyed on casino floors across the US! First revealed at G2E 2016, the technology-rich cabinet features a 50-inch, ultra-HD 4K curved top display, and a 32-inch, ultra-HD 4K curved main display. The CrystalCurve ULTRA cabinet is also equipped with an adjustable player chair with 5.1 surround sound, an in-game camera that gives players the option to incorporate their images into gameplay, and a sophisticated Dynamic Attract feature that engages passing patrons and invites them to enjoy the game. The Ellen DeGeneres Show Sharing The Love Video Slots is packed with charming content inspired by the Emmy Award-winning daytime talk show. The game captures the upbeat spirit of the fan-favorite show and incorporates some of its most popular recurring segments such as Cat Week and Epic or Fail. MGM Grand Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, Coushatta Casino Resort, and Harrington Raceway and Casino are among the first gaming destinations to feature the IGT CrystalCurve ULTRA cabinet with The Ellen DeGeneres Show Sharing The Love Video Slots on their casino floors. IGT’s CrystalCurve ULTRA cabinet is backed by a rich pipeline of premium licensed game themes such as The Voice Video Slots and The Goonies Video Slots. For more information visit IGT.com. $
14 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
TABLE GAMES By Al Moe
SOME CHILLING TABLE GAME MYTHS Setting The Record Straight On Popular Misconceptions At The Tables
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here are many myths about gaming, like the one about casinos in Las Vegas pumping pure oxygen into the air to keep gamblers happy and awake for hours. That was mentioned in a book by Mario Puzo, but it didn’t make it real. In Arizona, a recurring myth is that the odds at penny slots are better than those on dollar machines. That would be nice if it were true, but generally speaking, the higher the denomination, the better the odds for the player. There are no slots lower than a penny. You get my drift, right? Some players think they will do better in the high limit room than out on the casino floor. How exactly would that be? Unless the high limit tables have fewer decks on the game you are playing, the odds are the same. If you don’t know it, the more decks used on a blackjack game, the higher the house edge. Spooks in the Night Halloween is coming, but table games aren’t different on the graveyard shift. Some players have heard the myth that the casinos hire shills to make you lose and to get games closed when midnight comes. Of course, that’s not the case. As the crowd thins, casinos consolidate games so they can send their workers home, it’s as simple as that. And, the myth that your wins and losses will be impacted by how another gambler plays their hand is just fantasy. Sure, a player can mess up one hand, but by the end of the day, it all evens out. Another popular myth involves drinking at the casino. One story is that the casinos water down the drinks to make more money. Some bartenders still do a free pour and some use an actual shot glass, or the dispensers are set for a shot. Either way, liquor is inexpensive, and the liquor laws are pretty strict in Arizona. The casino isn’t trying to save 25 cents on your drink. On the flip of the chip, I’ve also heard that the casinos doublepour their drinks to get players drunk, so they’ll gamble more. That’s another myth that’s got to be shut down. Again, the laws are strict, but today’s a good day to start drinking conservatively when you are gambling anyway, so consider slowing down! Other Myths Floating About Have you heard that the dealer will cheat for you if you tip enough? Well, stranger things have happened, but remember
16 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
there are cameras on the games, there are Pit Bosses watching the games, and a dealer is apt to get fired if they cheat for you. Better steer clear of that myth! Still, the most frightening myth is the one that says using your Player’s Club card is unlucky. That one sounds like a selffulfilling prophecy. If you use your card, you get cool benefits like free meals, free concerts and event seating, free and discounted rooms, and some nice conversation from the supervisors who get to know your name. If you don’t use your card, you lose all those things. The comps you’ll lose might only account for a small percentage of how much you gamble, but that’s what sounds unlucky to me. Table game myths can be scary, but only if you believe them! $ Writer Al Moe has worked in the casino industry for many years. He has lived and worked in Las Vegas, Reno, and Lake Tahoe. He also attended the University of Nevada, Reno. He is an avid writer and blogger, author of “Vegas and the Mob"—available at Amazon. He is also the proud father of four beautiful girls.
TABLE GAMES By TJ Jorgensen
THE ACE-FIVE COUNT An Easy System To Learn For Blackjack Players
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f a Blackjack player knows "Basic Strategy" and employs it flawlessly the Casino has about a 0.52% long term advantage, depending on the rules and number of decks used. This means, on average, for every $100 wagered you would expect to lose 52 cents in the long run. By learning and utilizing a very simple card counting system you can reduce the house edge even further. The “Ace-Five Count" is very easy to master and play. This system recognizes and keeps track of the two most important cards in the deck. For the player, the most valuable card is the Ace. Besides being the essential element for a Blackjack, it also enables the player to make hands because its value can be one or eleven. The most important card for the Dealer is the five, because when hitting hands of 12-16, it will give them 17-21. How This System Works As the cards are dealt from a new shoe you assign a value of -1 (minus one) to all Aces, and a value of +1 (plus one) to all 5s. By doing this, you will know if there is an imbalance of 5s vs Aces on the upcoming hand. You will increase your bet when you are more likely to get an Ace, and bet the minimum when there is a surplus of 5s. For example, if the cards are dealt for the first hand, and there are three 5s dealt and one Ace, your count would be +2 (plus two) for the upcoming hand. (Three 5s at a value of +1 (plus one) each or +3, and one Ace with a value of -1 (minus one). 3 - 1 = +2). With this information you now know that for the next hand you are more likely to get an Ace as opposed to a 5. Betting For a six deck game you will bet the minimum when your count is at +2 (plus two) or lower. If you get a count of +3 or +4 for the upcoming hand, bet twice your minimum bet. When your count is at +5 or higher for the upcoming hand, bet four times your minimum. Here is a betting chart for a $5 six deck table. Count +2 or lower +3 +4 +5 or higher
Bet $ 5 $10 $10 $20
Betting according to your count will reduce the Casino's edge because you are increasing your wagers when the composition of the cards for the upcoming hand favor the player, and play-
18 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
ing the minimum when the dealer has the advantage. Playing The Hands You must know and play basic strategy perfectly to maximize the reduction of the Casino's edge. There is no room for hunches or gut feelings. How much of a reduction depends on the house rules, number of decks, how well you play basic strategy, and how accurately you keep track of the Aces and 5s. While you will not have a mathematical advantage over the Casino using the Ace-Five Count, you will be able to reduce the house edge a little bit more than if you were just using basic strategy. In fact, after 25,000 hands you will have a 25% chance of being ahead. This is an easy system to learn and will get you started counting cards, and reduce the Casino’s edge. If you find that you like counting then the next step would be to learn a full card counting strategy like the High-Low. $
Writer TJ Jorgensen has been a professional Blackjack player for over 20 years. He is well known for his tournament play and has beaten some of the top tournament players in the world. He has also won the World Series Of Blackjack. His book, “Beating The Casino At Their Own Game” is available by email at: tj21pro@gmail.com.
“LET’S PLAY” IGT’s Brand New Slots At G2E 2017 In Las Vegas!
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nder the “Let’s Play” theme, IGT will offer a vast portfolio of innovation-packed gaming solutions in G2E booth #3659, with a focus on introducing compelling new content on the industry’s hottest hardware. A focal point within IGT’s booth will be its award-winning TRUE 4D product portfolio. Anchored in SPHINX 4D, TRUE 4D offers immersive gameplay through its use of 3D graphics combined with gesture recognition and mid-air haptic technologies. IGT will introduce new TRUE 4D titles on the CrystalCurve TRUE 4D cabinet including the blockbuster licensed theme Ghostbusters 4D. IGT will highlight its expanded premium content portfolio by introducing new games for the CrystalCurve ULTRA, AXXIS 3D, CrystalDual + Stepper, CrystalCurve and S3000 cabinets. IGT will highlight its extended game library for the CrystalCurve ULTRA cabinet with game themes such as The Goonies Video Slots and Blake Shelton Video Slots. A revamped version of Jurassic World 3D, along with new TRUE 3D games such as James Cameron’s Avatar 3D and Wheel of Fortune Wild Sapphires 3D are highly anticipated games on the AXXIS 3D cabinet. IGT’s Dubble Bubble and Super Bankroll Slots games on the CrystalDual + Stepper cabinet, and the Fortune Gong and Golden Goddess linked progressives on the CrystalCurve cabinet are also among the many product highlights from IGT’s Premium portfolio. IGT will also reveal the three new games that comprise Red Hot Cantina, IGT’s spicy new linked progressive on the S3000 cabinet. G2E attendees can “go big” in IGT’s booth with the Company’s newly released large-format cabinets – the MEGATOWER and S3000 XL. Inspired by proven IGT hardware, both colossal cabinets are supported by player-favorite game themes such as Wheel of Fortune Slots and IGT Pinball.
20 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
ongoing expansion of its content library for the S3000 cabinet. At G2E, IGT will dedicate a portion of its booth to the Company’s new, single and multi-line Class II titles for the S3000 such as Double Topaz, 2x3x4x5x Ducks in a Row, and Wild Bill. Additionally, IGT will reveal a new version of the S3000 cabinet that is equipped with a spectrum meter and backed by content with iconic mechanics, pay tables, graphics and sounds. IGT will apply its content segmentation model to its mechanical reel portfolio as well, including an additional “Play Up” classification. As the market leader in video poker, IGT will continue to introduce novel video poker themes that put a new spin on a classic casino offering. Must-see video poker innovations in IGT’s booth include Wheel Poker, a must-have game for every casino floor that leverages a virtual wheel in the game’s top box for added entertainment, and Stack the Deck Poker, a game that compounds the thrill and chances of hitting three, four and five-of-akind hands. For more information visit IGT.com. $
IGT will further propel its momentum in delivering topperforming video core titles with new content for the CrystalSlant, CrystalDual, CrystalCurve and AXXIS 23/23 cabinets. Standout titles on IGT’s CrystalCurve cabinet include Wild Fury Jackpots, a vibrant, five-level progressive that will make its G2E debut; Ocean Magic Grand, a new take on the player-favorite Ocean Magic theme that introduces a 2X2 Super Bubble feature; and Cleopatra Gold which leverages one of the most popular slot themes of all time and incorporates an expanded matrix and free games. IGT’s Elephant King, Dancing Reels Salsa, and Golden Gecko are dual-screen titles that have earned the distinction “Proven Performer” by excelling in the Company’s test banking process, and will be available for G2E attendees to enjoy in the Company’s booth. Additionally, IGT will extend the success of “Proven Performer” titles such as Big 5 Safari and Golden Egypt by introducing them in a single-screen format on the CrystalCurve cabinet. IGT is building upon its leadership in mechanical reels with the
azgamingguide.com | October 2017 | Arizona Gaming Guide
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ARIZONA LOTTERY By Megan Conner
PRECIOUS METALS SUPER TICKET Arizona Lottery Launches Second Super Ticket Scratchers Game!
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he Arizona Lottery has launched its second Super Ticket and it’s bigger and better than ever! The new Precious Metals Super Ticket Scratchers offers players four games in one ticket with bigger top prizes and super-sized fun! The new game kicked off in September, bringing a bold 12-inch play area with four eye-catching games. Players can choose which game to play by picking their metal of choice including Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze. For only $10, players can play four games in one ticket and have the opportunity to win up to $100,000! “The Arizona Lottery loves introducing new Super Tickets to its players,” said Gregg Edgar, Executive Director of the Arizona Lottery. “We have seen success with our past Super Ticket and we thought the Precious Metals theme would pique our players’ interest with the nod to our prospector miner mascot.” The Precious Metals Super Ticket stands out because of the ticket’s giant size. The ticket is so big that it doesn’t fit in Arizona Lottery vending machines! The Super Ticket is sold exclusively at the counter in all Arizona Lottery retailers. This super ticket also has super odds! Those who don’t win the $100,000 top prize can still win cash prizes ranging from $10 to $10,000. Players have a 1 in 3.41 odds of winning any cash prize, and the Precious Metals ticket has more than $13 million in cash prizes available to lucky players. The Platinum and Gold games have a bonus box that players can scratch to instantly win cash prizes, and all four games offer players the chance to double their winnings! The Precious Metals Super Ticket Scratchers is available now and players can purchase their tickets at all 2,900+ Arizona Lottery retailers. For more information about Precious Metals and other Arizona Lottery games, visit ArizonaLottery.com. Did you know because of the Arizona Lottery, Arizona keeps winning? Players of Arizona Lottery games have helped raise more than $3 billion (yes, that’s a “b”) for Education, Health & Human Services, the Environment, and Economic & Business Development. Specifically, during the Arizona Lottery’s 2016 fiscal year, a record breaking $205 million was contributed to the areas listed above! $
22 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
TRAVEL
Route 66 Casino Hotel & RV Resort
By Rory Garcia
ROUTE 66 CASINO HOTEL & RV RESORT 1,300+ Slots, Hotel, RV Park & Much More!
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xperience the open road to excitement at Route 66 Casino Hotel and RV Resort. Located just 15 minutes west of Albuquerque, New Mexico, on historic Route 66. You’ll uncover Las Vegas-style casino action, award-winning dining, and top-notch live entertainment all under one roof, making this the perfect choice for a weekend getaway. Feel the thrill of non-stop excitement on the Route 66 Casino floor. With over 1,300 of the latest reel, slots, video poker and progressive machines, plus 15 action-packed table games, you’ll find the perfect game to “Get Your Kicks.” Have an out-of-this-world experience. An unidentified flying object has landed in the center of the Route 66 Casino gaming floor and its alien presence has attracted the newest slot games in the country to a realm known as Area 66! Guests will find Area 66 filled with first-to-market slot machines, exclusive to Route 66 Casino! Seek out the newest games on every visit! Area 66 is replenished with new games every 90 days and the casino floor receives nation-wide game releases regularly. Coast into indulgence and stay the night in their classy and comfortable hotel. Relax in one of the 154 newly renovated rooms at Route 66 Hotel. Refreshed from floor to ceiling, a recent $2 million remodel features an inviting ambiance of lively designs, modern furnishings, and many upgrades to make your stay comfortable. Reenergize with in-room amenities from top brands like Simmons Beautyrest, Starbucks and Bath & Body Works. Hotel reservations are available now. For current rates, member discounts, and reservations call 1.866.711.STAY (7829).
RV Resort Pool At Route 66 Casino Hotel & RV Resort
Located just steps away from the casino is the Southwest’s newest vacation destination, the Route 66 RV Resort. The RV Resort has been awarded the coveted 10/10*/10 rating from the industry’s leading publication Good Sam. You’ll relish stunning views of the surrounding Southwest landscape at any one of their 100 full-service RV sites. Experience the many state-of-the-art resort amenities, such as the deluxe RV Clubhouse, high-end workout facility, spa-like bathrooms and multiple dog parks. Relax poolside at their luxurious resort style pool, which features a beach entry, hot tub and 60-foot water slide. RV reservations can be made at RT66RVResort.com or by calling 1.505.352.8000. The best gaming, dining, and entertainment is just a hop, skip and short 15 minute drive west of Albuquerque on I-40, exit 140. Visit RT66Casino.com for the latest Route 66 Casino Hotel news or call 1.866.352.RT66 (7866). $
Route 66 Casino Hotel & RV Resort
24 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
GAMING NEWS
A Push For
At Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino This October
Each year during the month of October, individuals and organizations nationwide show their support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) and Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino is no exception. Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers with a diagnosis rate of one in every eight women. With this in mind, it’s no wonder that Harrah’s—a company known for its community outreach and concern for overall corporate health and happiness—is once again taking October by storm, putting on a number of in-house and community events aimed to help raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness. “Harrah’s Breast Cancer Awareness campaign is one that our employees and guests alike look forward to each year,” said Robert Livingston, regional president and general manager. “Although it’s an issue that we all take seriously, we make it enjoyable and educational with events like Battle of the Bras, our PINK parade and Maricopa Rocks.” As tradition would suggest, Harrah’s has a fun-filled month planned to help advocate and raise money for breast cancer survivors and ongoing research. All employees are encouraged to decorate their office doors, dye their hair, dress headto-toe in PINK on October 20 and participate in the Strides for Cancer Walk on October 28. In addition to all of the activities that are happening for employees in October, the casino has plenty in store for its guests. Play On PINK: The color of the month comes as no surprise— PINK! In fact, Harrah’s will change out most of the felt on the table games so that guests can play on PINK all month long. And on Wednesdays in October, Total Rewards members will receive $10 in free slot play or 1,000 reward credits. Not a Total Rewards member? No worries, it’s free to sign up and new members start earning entries right away. And not only can you qualify for the $10 in free slot play every Wednesday, by participating in the Total Rewards program, you unlock the benefits and rewards that can be used throughout the entire Caesars’ family of casinos worldwide. So, unlike other casinos in Arizona, guests can take the rewards they earn with Harrah’s and redeem them at other Caesars Entertainment properties across the country. Parade in PINK: Harrah’s has more in store for its guests than just Total Rewards offers. On October 20, the casino will be putting on a PINK Parade to coincide with All PINK Everything Day. Employees will be wearing PINK and parading
26 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
around the casino floor to music. Guests are encouraged to wear PINK and participate as well. As if this didn’t already sound like a blast, Harrah’s is also putting on its annual Battle of the Bras fashion show on October 21 from 6–8pm. For this, the casino’s male staff members will strut their stuff in their department’s custom-made brassieres. This is, hands down, Harrah’s most popular event during BCAM. Let Them Eat And Drink PINK: While you’re celebrating with Harrah’s during the PINK parade or at the Battle of the Bras, you might as well indulge in some PINK treats! All month long, Harrah’s will be featuring the Coastal Pink Mamas (seared sea scallops with goat cheese and beet risotto) at the Range Steakhouse and The L.E.O. (three-egg omelet with lox, onion and crème fresh served with hash brown and toast) at Agave’s Restaurant. Both dishes have pops of PINK that go along with October’s theme. Harrah’s guests are also encouraged to kick back and relax with this month’s featured drink, the PINK Warrior at The Lounge and on the casino floor! Made with Southern Comfort, amaretto, peach schnapps, cranberry and orange juice, this drink is sure to delight! And at $7, with a portion of its proceeds being donated to the American Cancer Society, you can’t find a sweeter deal. “All Caesars properties are encouraged to engage in activities related to BCAM and we are fortunate to work for an organization that is so passionate about the health and well-being of our employees and guests,” said Livingston. Be a part of the fun and join Harrah’s on social media to help raise awareness. Just tag @Harrahs_AkChin on Twitter and @HarrahsAkChin on Facebook and Instagram, and make sure to use the hashtag #CAESARSFORBCA. For info visit HarrahsAkChin.com. $
GAMING NEWS
Arizona Department Of Gaming & Arizona State Troopers Serve Warrant At Alleged Illegal Poker Room In Sierra Vista
Serving their first illegal gambling-related warrant in Sierra Vista, Arizona, officers from the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) along with Arizona State Troopers, closed the doors of an alleged illegal poker room, on Thursday, September 14. During the execution of the warrant, four people suspected of being connected to the unregulated poker room were taken into custody and now face charges ranging from conducting an illegal criminal enterprise, to the promotion of—and benefitting from—gambling. The charges range from a class 1 misdemeanor to a class 3 felony. During the ninemonth investigation, ADG agents found evidence of an illegal criminal enterprise involving illegal poker at The Poker Room Live, located at 64 E. Fry Boulevard, which was the focus of the raid. The business facilitated paying customers illegally playing unregulated casino-style poker, similar to that found inside regulated casinos.
28 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
The ongoing partnership between ADG, the Arizona Department of Public Safety, The Arizona Attorney General’s Office, as well as numerous other local law enforcement agencies and partners, has helped shut down dozens of illegal gambling sites in the last two years alone. Often found in or near residential neighborhoods, these illegal establishments often are magnets for other types of criminal activity if left unchecked. Multiple tips from the public were what led to ADG’s monthslong investigation culminating in the raid. ADG takes complaints about illegal gambling businesses very seriously. If you have a tip concerning a suspected illegal gambling operation in your area, please contact the Arizona Department of Gaming by phone at 1.602.771.4263 or by email at PublicAffairs@AZGaming.gov. $
LAUGHLIN, NEVADA By Lana Hartmann
GOLDEN NUGGET ENTERTAINMENT Exciting Shows And Events In Laughlin, Nevada
T
he Golden Nugget Laughlin ups the ante when it comes to Laughlin entertainment! From amazing concert and comedy experiences to local bands and lounge music, the best Laughlin shows happen under their roof. For a great time, you know who to call!
Band Perry Concert - October 6 Room Packages starting at $320. Packages include: 2 Night Hotel Accommodations (Friday & Saturday) 2 Tickets for the Band Perry on Friday October 6
Toby Keith Concert - October 28 Room Packages Starting at $499. Packages Include: 2 Night Hotel Accommodations (Friday & Saturday) 2 Tickets for Toby Keith on Saturday October 28
Kid Rock Concert - November 11 Room Packages Starting at $459. Packages Include: 2 Nights Hotel Accommodations (Friday & Saturday) 2 Tickets for Kid Rock on Saturday November 11
30th Annual Fast Past Car Show- November 2-4 Room Packages Starting at $159. Packages Include: 3 Night Hotel Accommodations (Thursday, Friday, & Saturday) Welcome reception on Thursday, November 2, 2-5pm Commemorative Event T-Shirt (One Per Room) Ladies Poker Walk Best of Shows Awards Exclusive Slot and Blackjack Tournament All entry fees are returned to group participants For more information on prices, or to book your package please call Hotel reservations 1.800.950.7700. For more information about the Golden Nugget Casino in Laughlin, visit their website at GoldenNugget.com/Laughlin. $
30 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
CASINO ENTERTAINMENT
Editor’s Picks
Peter Cetera
98°
Desert Diamond Casino—Sahuarita November 10
Desert Diamond Casino—Sahuarita December 22
Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Peter Cetera to perform at Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment’s Diamond Center on Friday, November 10, 2017. Tickets start at $30 and are on sale now through Star Tickets and at Desert Diamond Casino’s Rewards Center. The doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8pm.
98° have made their Christmas plans for this year. The group is embarking on a 31-city 98° at Christmas tour starting in November, highlighting their new album Let It Snow. This special holiday tour arrives at Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment’s Diamond Center on Friday, Dec. 22, 2017. Tickets start at $25 and are on sale through Star Tickets and at Desert Diamond Casino’s Rewards Center. Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 8pm.
Peter Cetera has had two distinct musical careers. From 1968 through 1986, Peter was the singer, songwriter, and bass player for the legendary rock group Chicago. In his time with the group, they recorded 18 of the most memorable albums of a generation, including such hits as If You Leave Me Now, Hard to Say I’m Sorry, Baby What a Big Surprise, You’re the Inspiration, Stay the Night, Love Me Tomorrow, Happy Man, Feeling Stronger Every Day, and Along Comes a Woman. A solo artist since 1986, Peter has recorded 10 time-honored albums including his No. 1 hits, the Academy Award-nominated song The Glory of Love, The Next Time I Fall with Amy Grant, Feels Like Heaven with Chaka Kahn, After All with Cher, No Explanation from the film Pretty Woman, and the unforgettable Restless Heart. Peter is currently touring with his seven piece electric band, The Bad Daddy’s. He also appears in other musical formats including his Symphony Show for larger venues and a smaller String Quartet version for smaller locations. Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said, “Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment welcomes music legend Peter Cetera to the Diamond Center! He has so many hits it’s hard to pick just one favorite; chances are you’ll hear some of your top picks on Nov. 10 at the Diamond Center with Peter Cetera!” Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment has three locations in Southern Arizona (Tucson, Sahuarita, and Why) and one in the West Valley. Additional information can be found at DDCAZ.com or by calling 1.866.DDC.WINS. $
32 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
Treena Parvello, Director of Public Relations and Communications for the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, said, “Nick and Drew Lachey announced the official reunion of 98° in 2012 and ever since then Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment has been waiting to bring them to Southern Arizona! Fans shouldn’t wait long to get tickets for this must-see holiday show at the Diamond Center on Dec. 23, a perfect gift for your friends!” The vocal quartet comprised of Nick Lachey, Drew Lachey, Justin Jeffre and Jeff Timmons who are renowned for signature R&B-tinged, four-part harmonies will release Let It Snow, their new Christmas album on October 13, 2017 via UMe. It is their first new album in 4 years and a follow-up 18 years in the making to the now classic album This Christmas. Recording Let It Snow was an easy decision. "As a group, our favorite record, hands down, is [This Christmas],” says Drew. "We’re proud of the music, the harmonies, the production. It's a Christmas record that every year people can put on and enjoy.” "We have primarily a female audience, but we’ll have guys come up to us and say, 'You know what? I love the Christmas album; my mom bought it for me.’ It’s bro code that the Christmas album’s allowed," Timmons jokingly added. For info visit DDCAZ.com or call 1.800.DDC.WINS. $ Verify all details & age restrictions (generally 21 & over) for each event. Venues, times, dates, & ticket information are subject to change. Photos/images copyright of the individual artist(s), photographer(s), or venue(s). All Rights Reserved. We are not responsible for incorrect, missing, or outdated information.
SAMI’S SMACKDOWN By Sami Becker
DON’T WASTE MY TIME Have Your ID At The Ready!
O
ver the Labor Day Weekend I spent some time visiting a few casinos around Arizona. I had a lot of fun playing a ton of new slots. I particularly enjoyed playing Lightning Link by Aristocrat. Wow, is that ever a popular game! Of course, something had to annoy me, as it always seems to. Perhaps you don’t know this about me, but I can’t stand lines. If I see a line (long or short) I cringe inside, even if the line doesn't apply to me! In any event, when I am unable to avoid a line, I have a terrible time waiting for my turn. Argh! Ugh! Sigh!
Card, but a valid ID as well! In the future please find your ID and your Player’s Card before you get to the front of the line. You have plenty of time to accomplish this task as we are all standing around doing nothing anyway! Please don’t wait until after you are already interacting with an employee and we get to suffer through the time-wasting agony of watching you search through your entire purse (or pants pockets or wallet)! Why would anyone have to “search” for their ID anyway? Everyone should know where their ID is at all times! That’s called being a responsible adult. Seriously! $
However, is it really too much to expect my fellow patrons to have the common sense to foresee the requirements that accompany standing in line at a casino? I mean seriously folks! Unless you are in line waiting to be seated at a casino’s restaurant, you will have to show a casino employee not only your Player’s
Do YOU have a RANT OR RAVE? If so, write me at: sami@azgamingguide.com or by mail at: “Sami” Arizona Gaming Guide PO BOX 20636 Mesa, AZ 85277. If I pick your topic for publication in a future issue, you’ll get a $25 gift card!
34 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
FUN & GAMES
WORD SEARCH To Celebrate National Dessert Day On October 14, Find: APPLE CRISP, CAKE, CANNOLI, CHEESECAKE, COOKIES, CUPCAKE, DOUGHNUT, FLAN, FRUIT, FUDGE, ICE CREAM, MOUSSE, PASTRIES, PIE SLICE, PUDDING, SHORTBREAD, SUNDAE, TORTE, TRIFLE, TURNOVER. Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 38)
A
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V
SUDOKU Each of the columns, rows, and nine 3 x 3 grids must contain all of the digits 1 - 9. None of the digits may appear more than once in each column, row, and 3 x 3 grid. Level: Medium. (Solution on page 38)
1
2
2
4 8 4
3
7
6
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2
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8 8
5
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5 4
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2 9
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36 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
888-243-3360 540
Y
Y
1500 E. Hwy. 69
Prescott
800-756-8744 321
05. Casino Arizona
101 & McKellips
Scottsdale
480-850-7777 898
Y
Y
06. Casino Del Sol
5655 W. Valencia Rd.
Tucson
855-765-7829 1,034
Y
Y
08. Casino of the Sun
5405 W Valencia Rd
Tucson
855-765-7829
7406 S. Camino De Oeste
Tucson
855-765-7829 284
I-17, Exit 289
Camp Verde
800-381-7568 656
09. Cliff Castle Casino & Hotel 10. Cocopah Resort Casino 11. Desert Diamond Casino I
15318 S. Ave. B
Somerton
800-237-5687 511
Tucson
866-332-9467 1,016
I-19, Exit 80
Sahuarita
866-332-9467 563
13. Desert Diamond Casino-W.V.
101 & Northern Ave.
Glendale
866-332-9467 1,089
14. Desert Diamond Casino-Why
Hwy. 86, Milepost 55
Why
15. Fort McDowell Casino
Hwy. 87 & Ft. McDowell Rd.
16. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
480-802-5000 1,089
777 Hwy. 260
Pinetop
800-929-8744 824
1077 S. Kyrene Rd.
Chandler
800-946-4452 828
Hwy. 87, 1/4 mi. S. of Payson
Payson
800-777-7529 412
Yuma
888-777-4946 480
20. Paradise Casino
450 Quechan Dr.
21. Quechan Casino
I-8, Exit 166
Winterhaven, CA 877-783-2426 1,000+
22. Spirit Mountain Casino
8555 Hwy. 95
Mohave Valley 928-346-2000 250
23. Talking Stick Resort
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
Y
Y
Y
Y Y Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
Y
Y Y
Scottsdale
480-850-7777 765
Y
Flagstaff
855-946-8946 1,092
Y
Y
Y
6443 Komatke Ln.
Laveen
800-946-4452 921
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd.
Chandler
800-946-4452 937
Y
Y
Y
Y
1505 E. Hwy. 69
Prescott
800-756-8744 245
27. Yavapai Casino
Y
Y
I-40, Exit 219
25. Vee Quiva Casino
Y
Y
101 & Indian Bend
24. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino 26. Wild Horse Pass Casino
Y
Y Y
Fort McDowell 800-843-3678 895 Maricopa
18. Lone Butte Casino
Y
58
15406 N. Maricopa Rd.
17. Hon-Dah Casino 19. Mazatzal Hotel & Casino
866-332-9467
Y
11
7350 S. Nogales Hwy.
12. Desert Diamond Casino II
Y
Y
04. Bucky’s Casino
07. Casino Del Sol Marketplace
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
Y
Y
Y Y
Y
Y
Sources: AZ Dept. of Gaming—Current Tribal Gaming Status as of 09/01/17 & direct inquiries at press time. Not responsible for incorrect information. Contact editor@azgamingguide.com to make updates.
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Word Search Solution F R S U E I I T R T S A P
G N I D D U P
A P P L E C R I S P
E K A C E S E E H C C O O K
C A K E
M I
D A
E C I L S E I P U
E L F I R T S S
D O U G H N E U S T U N D
N A F L M U F A D E G R E C E O C A I E S T O R T E E I L O N N A C E R B T R O H S
Sudoku Solution R E V O N R U T C U P C A K E
6
3
4
5
1
2
8
9
7
2
1
7
3
8
9
4
5
6
9
5
8
7
6
4
3
2
1
8
4
1
2
5
6
9
7
3
3
6
5
4
9
7
2
1
8
7
9
2
8
3
1
5
6
4
1
8
9
6
4
5
7
3
2
5
7
3
1
2
8
6
4
9
4
2
6
9
7
3
1
8
5
38 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2017 | azgamingguide.com
Smoke-Free Area
800-272-2438 306
Parker
Y
Spa
Dudleyville
11300 Resort Drive
Y
Arcade
Slots
Golf
Milepost 127 on Arizona 77
03. BlueWater Resort & Casino
Phone
Poker Room
800-272-2438 483
Table Games
Globe
Live Keno
City
RV Park
02. Apache Sky Casino
Location Hwy. 70, 5 mi. E. of Globe
Hotel
01. Apache Gold Casino Resort
Bingo
Casino
High Limit Area
CASINO DIRECTORY
Y Y Y