OCTOBER
Contents IN THIS ISSUE 04 EDITOR’S NOTE 06 IGT AT G2E 12 EVERI AT G2E
18 ARISTOCRAT AT G2E 20 COVER STORY 22 LAUGHLIN, NEVADA 28 GAMING ARTS AT G2E 34 AGS AT G2E 36 FUN & GAMES 38 CASINO DIRECTORY
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JOIN NOW, WIN NOW AT CASINO ARIZONA AND TALKING STICK RESORT
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These slot manufacturers share their brand new products: IGT, Everi, Aristocrat, Gaming Arts, and AGS!
This brand new promotion lets you play your way into Golden Nugget Nation, where loyalty is everything!
Make sure you win with all the fun and games. There’s something for everyone here!
GLOBAL GAMING EXPO 2021 IN LAS VEGAS
GOLDEN NUGGET LAUGHLIN’S NEW PROMO
LUCKY NUMBERS, GAMES, JOKES & MORE
azgamingguide.com | October 2021 | Arizona Gaming Guide
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EDITOR’S NOTE
GLOBAL GAMING EXPO The Show Returns To Las Vegas
Your Authority On Everything Gaming VOLUME 13 • ISSUE 10 MANAGING DIRECTOR & VIDEO POKER GURU Elizabeth Torma liz@azgamingguide.com
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his issue is packed with an incredible amount of information from the slot manufacturers as they prepare to display all the latest and greatest brand new games at the Global Gaming Expo, or G2E for short, during the first full week of this month! On top of all the new games, I suggest our readers pay close attention to what else is being made available to the casinos. I suspect, in the near future, much of what the slot manufacturers are describing in the articles, we’ll be interacting with as customers on casino floors across Arizona. Don’t expect technological changes to happen immediately everywhere, but based on our travels around the state, it’s already started and will only keep growing as each casino property strives to remain competitive. There is just so much information about G2E this year, it became hard to contain in just this one issue. So, make sure to read the cover story on Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort. If you aren’t a member of their Player Rewards Club, “Join Now, Win Now.” Their new members promotion gives you a chance at up to $10,000 in free play. Plus, as a member of their Player Rewards Club you have access and benefits at two casino properties. Be on the lookout for something new coming from us very soon. I can’t share it with you yet, but I think it will be worth your while. Make sure you check back with our racks in the casinos and keep an eye out on your inbox for an extra e-newsletter (signup at AZGamingGuide.com) around the middle of the month! Finally, I have to say, our Fun & Games page continues to be a personal favorite of mine. This month the section delivers the goods in the Joke area, I could not stop laughing when we were proofing this issue as it went to press! Don’t worry, next month, all the usual sections will be back. Have A Lucky Month!
Alexandra
Alexandra Lang Editor-in-Chief Editor@AZGamingGuide.com
PUBLISHER & SLOT GURU Chris Höft chris@azgamingguide.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alexandra Lang editor@azgamingguide.com ART DIRECTOR Melanie Mueller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Al Moe Mark Novak TJ Jorgensen 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 AZGamingGuide.com Facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide
Copyright © 2009-2021 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. AGG is not liable for claims made in articles and/or advertisements. All pictures, images, logos, trademarks and trade names, etc. are the sole property of their respective owners. Intended for single use only. Reproduction in part or in whole in any form without consent is not permitted. Sale and/or distribution in any form without consent is not permitted. Check all details with the respective casino’s Players Club. Our full legal disclaimer can be found at AZGamingGuide.com/index_files/legal_disclaimer.html. 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 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
04 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2021 | azgamingguide.com
IGT: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”It’s Game Time!” Submitted By IGT
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lobal gaming leader IGT will showcase its many growth-driving innovations at G2E 2021. Under the theme, “It’s Game Time!,” the Company will demonstrate games, cabinets, systems and solutions across all of its gaming verticals that clearly reinforce IGT’s commitment to delivering performance and world-class entertainment. IGT will leverage G2E as a platform to extend the excitement of its 25th anniversary celebration of the most successful slot theme of all time: Wheel of Fortune slots. The Company will have a dedicated Wheel of Fortune-themed area within its booth where IGT will facilitate exciting giveaways and unveil new Wheel of Fortune games such as Wheel of Fortune 2X Wilds Diamond Spins. Within its premium games showcase IGT will also demonstrate new millionaire-making Megabucks slot games, next-generation The Price is Right video slots games and high-excitement multilevel progressives. IGT’s core hardware and content portfolio will be another anchor of the Company’s showcase. On the high-performing PeakSlant32 cabinet, IGT will reveal new compelling core games such as Lucky Larry’s Lobstermania 4 and Greek Lightning/Lucky Lightning, while the PeakSlant49 premium-quality cabinet will showcase new core games, Stinkin’ Rich Skunks Gone Wild, Da Vinci Diamonds Masterpiece, Wolf Run Eclipse and more. In the mechanical reel segment, IGT will display new games for the S3000 and S3000 Jackpot cabinet such as Triple Double Diamond Jackpots, Fu Tao and Golden Pepper. As the leading B2B sports betting technology supplier, IGT will highlight the power and versatility of its PlaySports platform and its portfolio of sports betting peripherals. With deployments in 17 states and go-lives pending in several others, the IGT PlaySports platform is the most widely used B2B technology stack in the U.S. market. It is supported by self-service betting technologies such as the PlaySports Kiosk, the award-winning CrystalBetting Terminal and the PlaySports Pad, and is backed by a trusted and experienced team. When it comes to the cashless gaming revolution, IGT is leading the way with its Resort Wallet and IGTPay modules for the IGT ADVANTAGE casino management system. As the industry’s (Continued on page 8)
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IGT: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”It’s Game Time!”
(Continued from page 6)
only fully turnkey cashless solution, Resort Wallet and IGTPay deliver meaningful benefits to players and operators. Players will enjoy increased choice, convenience and safety, while operators can benefit from increased liquidity, streamlined labor and advanced analytics. At G2E, IGT will demonstrate these technologies along with advancements in mobile systems solutions such as the Mobile Employee product suite and performancedriving bonusing apps. As the leader in video poker, IGT will showcase its latest advancements in this segment. Staying true to its roots, the Company will show new innovative game concepts for the PeakBarTop, CrystalSlant Poker, Cobalt 23 and CrystalCurve cabinets. Must-see IGT video poker games at G2E will include All Star Poker III, Keno Star, Lucky Suit Poker and Powerhouse Poker Plus, as well as player-favorites Super Star Poker II and Game King X. IGT PlayDigital will also have a meaningful presence within the Company’s G2E booth. With the rapid expansion of the global iGaming market and pending digital gaming legislation in many states, IGT PlayDigital is prepared with a range of playdriving games and solutions. Some of the most anticipated PlayCasino games in IGT’s showcase will include MegaJackpots Elephant King, Great Bear and Fortune Coin Boost! The pandemic accelerated the demand for Electronic Tables Games (ETG) and IGT was ready to answer the call with its leading-edge Dynasty ETG portfolio. At G2E, IGT will showcase the supreme configurability afforded by the Peak Terminal and content advancements such as new side bets. IGT will round out its G2E portfolio with advancements in VLT content and hardware, as well as next-generation specialty market products for Historical Horse Racing, Class II and CDS Class II. To learn more visit IGT.com, like them on Facebook at Facebook.com/IGT or follow them on Twitter via @IGTJackpots or via their G2E hashtag: #IGTxG2E21. $
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EVERI: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”Let’s Go!” Submitted By Everi
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veri’s mission is to lead the gaming industry through the power of people, imagination, and technology. As a premier provider of land-based and digital casino gaming content and products, financial technology, as well as player loyalty solutions, Everi’s core focus is on player engagement and assisting their casino customers to operate more efficiently. At Global Gaming Expo 2021, Everi will reinforce the commitment to enhancing operator configurability and emphasize providing memorable player experiences with the launch of several new titles. In addition to the games that provide a premium experience on the casino floor, the company’s FinTech and loyalty solutions help transform the casino industry. G2E represents the opportunity for Everi to build upon the “Digital Neighborhood,” concept encompassing the full suite of financial and loyalty products and services.
GAMES Everi will showcase new additions to its award-winning games library, including the old west-style Gold Hills Series with an exhilarating Gold Run bonus feature that dares players to beat the clock to win jackpots and gold nugget prizes. The new, Egyptian-themed Star Wild Series also showcases a time-based frenzy mode. Both series of games will be featured on the Empire Flex cabinet. Soon-to-be-released for-sale offerings also include Gold Shots and Wild Freedom, which are stepper themes that offer operator configurable max bet. Available on the Player Classic cabinet and the 5X Skyline Series, both are inspired by consistent top performers Double Jackpot Gems and Triple Jackpot Gems on the Player Classic with Skyline top box. Everi’s robust lineup of premium titles include the recently released Cashnado Series on the newest, fully-featured banked product Flex Fusion that showcases a frequently occurring Cash Grab bonus which triggers during Cashnado Alert, a bank-wide community event. The highly successful Discovery Channel (Continued on page 14)
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EVERI: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”Let’s Go!”
(Continued from page 12)
Shark Week theme returns with the launch of Shark Week Feeding Frenzy on the Empire DCX premium cabinet. Jackpot Falls serves as the follow-on series to Dragon Kingdom on Empire Arena with an innovative twist to its bank-wide bonus feature. The patriotic and star themed stepper titles American Wheel and Star Wheel present beautifully on the Skyline Revolve cabinet and will also be on display at G2E. FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS The advancement in financial technology only adds to the highperforming standards Everi is known for across the gaming space. Considering casino operators had to reimagine how they interact and engage with their patrons over the past year, Everi helped its operator partners meet the emerging mobile ecosys-
tem with a suite of financial and loyalty products and services while emphasizing self-service. Designed to seamlessly connect through an expansive and secure network, Everi’s financial technology solutions on display at G2E bring commonality and continuity to operator workflows by incorporating customer-centric features to loyalty, payments, and casino operations, which ultimately serve to enhance the player experience. CashClub Wallet is a mobile digital wallet that enables casino operators to offer their guests the option of cashless and contactless funding of electronic game play across the casino floor. Everi empowers casino operators to successfully deliver on all aspects of the mobile ecosystem, including funding at the gaming device, payments at point of sale, or funding for sports betting or social gaming – all while providing customers with multiple options to access funds. (Continued on page 16)
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EVERI: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”Let’s Go!”
(Continued from page 14)
With more operator-partners on the way after launching with multiple operators in 2020 and 2021, the CashClub Wallet represents an important piece of their collective goal of enabling casino guests a convenient, smooth mobile experience. In addition to offering patrons the convenience and accessibility of an endto-end cashless and contactless gaming experience, the wallet can also be used to fund retail, online, hotel and food/beverage to pay at checkout. The company’s jackpot management system recently launched with a major casino operator in Las Vegas. Jackpot Xpress is an award-winning, intuitive jackpot and tax forms management solution that enables casino staff to securely and efficiently process slot jackpots using a mobile device right at the winning gaming machine. It is the only jackpot management system that combines mobile productivity, secure payment, tax forms management, and anti-money laundering tracking into a single solution. Jackpot Xpress also integrates with CashClub Wallet, assists with new card signups via integration with Everi’s Loyalty Platform, and has added secured email functionality to email yearend W2G’s to casino patrons.
Everi strives to optimize visibility, functionality, and usability for casino operators worldwide. As the preeminent provider of trusted financial technology solutions that power the casino floor, these efforts have positioned Everi as the industry's financial technology leader and a strategic partner for forwardthinking customers. DIGITAL It’s been three years since the launch of the proprietary Spark Remote Game Server. In the time since, Everi’s digital team has been hard at work, updating the RGS platform to support progressive content and building engaging progressive games. Everi expanded the footprint of its state-of-the-art Spark RGS platform over the past two years to include Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia in the U.S., plus British Columbia, Manitoba, and Quebec in Canada. The digital presence is strong and resonating with players in all locations, having launched top performing games with 14 operators, on 41 different iGaming sites. Since the launch of the RGS, Everi has become a top provider of iGaming content to operators and developed a reputation for creating compelling content. The distinct digital gaming catalogue now consists of over 50 high-performing titles, with more on the way. For more information visit Everi.com $
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ARISTOCRAT: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”Ready To Play!” Submitted By Aristocrat
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ristocrat Gaming™ is the clear leader in innovative hardware, games, and customer experience solutions that perform for its customers and help to create memorable gaming experiences for their guests. Now at G2E 2021, Aristocrat will introduce the next evolution of premium products designed to drive market growth through innovation and player engagement. At G2E, Aristocrat will show a vast array of new games, including next-generation evolutions of proven game families such as Mighty Cash Ultra 88, and Gold Stacks 88 and new innovations like Jackpot Catcher, Triple Supreme, and Wild Fireball Rumble. Aristocrat will also show new innovations to player-favorite brands such as Mighty Cash, Buffalo, Gold Stacks 88, Baby Choy, Mr. Cashman, Make That Cash, and more.
Core stepper players everywhere love Aristocrat’s RELM and new RELM 5 Reel, and Aristocrat is expanding the game library with new games such as Make That Cash Sensational Stars, Jackpot Hits Red Flame Inferno, Jackpot Hits Sunrise Riches & Twilight Treasures and Gold Stacks 88 Prosperity Pig. Building on its success in high-denom rooms, Aristocrat will display new products designed for high-limit players with video games including Buffalo High Limit, Pompeii High Limit, and Win Line and new stepper titles including Make That Cash, Wild Wild Wild, Jackpot Hits, and Wheel Max. The most popular game in North America is a focal point at casinos from coast to coast and the instantly legendary Buffalo Link will be a focal point at G2E as well, standing tall amongst other recently released player favorites including Wild Wild Buffalo and Timber Wolf Diamond. The all-new adventure of Game of Thrones Kings Landing will be in the booth, shining like oracles of what’s to come from Aristocrat – new titles that will be revealed only when the curtain rises at Aristocrat’s booth. (Continued on page 24)
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COVER STORY
JOIN NOW, WIN NOW At Casino Arizona & Talking Stick Resort It is often said that membership has its rewards and that could not be more true than at Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort. On September 1, the properties launched the Join Now, Win Now promotion for new members of their Player Rewards Club!
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As part of the promotion, guests who sign up for a new card will receive a scratch card worth up to $10,000 in free slot play. The Scratch card prize will range from $5 to $10,000 ensuring that no guest walks away empty handed. “We wanted to find a way to highlight the great benefits of joining our Player Rewards Club, and there is no better way than the chance to not only win, but to win big. The Join Now, Win Now promotion is a great introduction into our club,” said Ramon Martinez, Director of Public Relations at Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort. To sign up, guests can visit the Player Rewards Club at either the Casino Arizona or Talking Stick Resort location. Cards can then be used at either location with guests earning points during play and while using on-site amenities. For instance, they will earn one point for every dollar spent playing slots and 500 points for every hour spent playing poker. Table games points are based on average bet times length of play. However, the ability to earn points goes well beyond gaming. Members of the Player Rewards Club earn points for nearly every activity they do at each property. From hotel stays to spa services to cabana rentals and even gift shop purchases, guests will earn a point for every $2 spent on properties amenities. And don’t forget the restaurants. Earn points at any of Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort’s award winning restaurants including Cholla Prime Steakhouse and Lounge, Orange Sky, Tash and many more. What can guests do with all the points they earn? The opportunities are endless. Redeemed points can be used on the following: • Free slot play • Property gift cards • Tickets from the Box Office • Gift shop purchases • Dining at any of the restaurants at either property • Entries in casino promotions and drawings That's not all guests can receive while in the Player Rewards Club, some also get exclusive access to Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort’s gift program as well as drink vouchers. Members can also check their club status at the player kiosks located throughout both properties. The kiosk allows members to check their points, check in for drawings and to participate in special promotions that award free slot play, bonus entries and more. Ready to take advantage of all that Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort’s Player Rewards Club has to offer? Then join now and win now! For more information on the Player Rewards Club visit CasinoArizona.com or TalkingStickResort.com. $
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LAUGHLIN, NEVADA By Elizabeth Schueren
GOLDEN NUGGET NATION Where Loyalty Is Everything
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olden Nugget Laughlin rolled out Golden Nugget Nation in August of this year as another way to give their loyal guests access to exclusive offers and promotions. Each month brings a new set of Golden Nugget Nation promotions that can be anything from Comp Vouchers and large multipliers to free gifts and exclusive games for Free Slot Play. Their goal with this program is to ensure their loyal guests feel appreciated and valued with exciting, fresh, and exclusive offers. To become a Golden Nugget Nation Member all you have to do is earn 3,175 Tier Credits in a month. The way it works is if you earn 3,175 Tier Credits during the month of September you’ll then receive Golden Nugget Nation Membership for the month of October and qualify for that month’s exclusive Golden Nugget Nation promotions. This October’s Golden Nugget Nation exclusive promotions are a 5X Tier Credit multiplier every Sunday, the opportunity to win Free Slot Play in a Pick a Pumpkin Game every Wednesday, and a 3X Base Slot Point multiplier every Thursday.
At the beginning of every month or in Golden Nugget Nation terms the start of a new membership period, Golden Nugget Laughlin will add a new offer onto all qualifying Golden Nugget Nation Members’ 24K Select Club Account letting them know they have achieved Golden Nugget Nation Membership for that month. So, if you’ve been playing throughout the month hoping to achieve Golden Nugget Nation Membership be sure to keep an eye out on your online offers around the first or second day of the month to see if you’ve qualified. Your online offers are viewable through the 24K Select Club Portal or Golden Nugget Mobile App. Plus, in the Golden Nugget Mobile App, you can also view the number of Tier Credits you’ve earned. Making it easy to track your progression towards achieving Golden Nugget Nation Membership as you play throughout the month. For information about Golden Nugget Nation or to see the list of their current and upcoming exclusive promotions, be sure to visit GoldenNuggetLaughlin.com. $
Golden Nugget Laughlin launches a new program to reward their guests for their continued loyalty, Golden Nugget Nation.
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ARISTOCRAT: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”Ready To Play!”
(Continued from page 18)
VGT Class II Innovations by Aristocrat Gaming brings recognizable, high-performing Class II-only content on superior hardware combined with top trending features and mechanics. At G2E, Aristocrat will unveil a new Class II MarsX Portrait with a launch title that is available only in Class II. Additionally, Aristocrat will show Class II exclusives, such as Hunt For El Dorado, Silver Dollar Shoot Out, and a new Buffalo game created exclusively for Class II. Additionally, the RELM XL cabinet brings new MSP versions of Polar High Roller, Lucky Ducky, Hot Red Ruby, and Polar Riches. And if that weren’t enough, Aristocrat will unveil a new version of the global sensation Lightning Link for Class II.
For specialty markets, Aristocrat will debut a new line of games built specifically for Washington with upgraded math and new hardware, and the company will showcase innovations for growing markets, such as Historical Horse Racing and VLT with high-performing games and unique hardware. Aristocrat’s customer experience (CX) solutions drive and enhance the guest experience, and the company will show dozens of cutting-edge and innovative CX solutions, including leading solutions for contactless and cashless gaming, such as Aristocrat’s Digital Wallet, the fast and simple way players can fund their entertainment experience online or on an app. Also enhancing the guest experience is Aristocrat’s PlayerMax loyalty app, which links guests to their account status and allows for fun interactive brand features like gamification and inapp notifications; the Oasis Loyalty Kiosk, an all-in-one solution that combines card re-printing with promotional tools; and Tickets at the Table, which gives guests a seamless slot-to-table experience. Guest experience meets employee experience in Drinks on Tap, a fully mobile-based solution that allows guests to easily order (Continued on page 26)
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ARISTOCRAT: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”Ready To Play!”
(Continued from page 24)
drinks, food, merchandise, and more right at the EGM through the nCompass unit. Guests can even pay and tip for beverages using comps or points. On the staff side, Drinks on Tap helps increase efficiencies by automatically directing drinks to the nearest service well, viewing when servers are available or on break, and it even integrates with MICROS and InfoGenesis. Aristocrat also helps enhance the employee experience with Oasis 360 apps for mobile devices such as EnrollMix, which lets staff quickly enroll players into the player’s club from anywhere on the casino floor; and FloorFocus, a slot dispatch solution that notifies floor attendants and slot technicians when an EGM needs immediate service and does it all in real time. Operators everywhere love the leading ONE LINK solution with
advanced technologies for progressive management, bonusing, and media management; and Aristocrat’s nVision is a business intelligence tool that empowers operators to better use data with interactive dashboards and customized reporting. Aristocrat has the top talent making the best products. Experience the innovations in Aristocrat’s booth #1133 at G2E 2021. Aristocrat Technologies Inc. is a subsidiary of Aristocrat Leisure Limited, a global games leader with more than 6,000 employees. The company is licensed in over 300 gaming jurisdictions, operates in over 90 countries, and offers a unique blend of products and services. The company is the leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of Class III games as well as Class II Innovations for Native American casinos and emerging markets. The company’s mission is to bring joy to life through the power of play. Its values are rooted in creativity and technology, and the company has a rich history of innovation that has shaped the gaming industry over many decades. For more information, visit the company’s website at AristocratGaming.com. $
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GAMING ARTS: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”Best Of Breed” Submitted By Gaming Arts
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t G2E 2021, Gaming Arts is proud to present VertX Grand, a new 49” portrait cabinet that by any measure, is state-of-the-art, creating “a new dimension in cabinet
design.”
Not only is this sleek and feature-rich cabinet designed to stand out on any casino floor, its components were selected by choosing the “best of breed.” This includes the VertX Grand’s ultrabright 4K 49” portrait display, theater quality sound, a large ultra-bright LCD button deck which is the same display as used in new Mercedes Benz vehicles, programable LED play buttons and LED side lights that run the entire length of the cabinet, allowing the VertX to offer exciting bonus and attract sequences, as well as other exciting merchandising features that make a stunning presentation on the casino floor. This “best of breed” philosophy does not end with the new cabinet. It carries over to an all-new game library. As the development of the VertX Grand cabinet began, the Gaming Arts’ game studio simultaneously began work on a new game library offering unparalleled creativity and player excitement. The new VertX Grand is very comfortable for players to play. They began with an ergonomic analysis of optimal player requirements. This led to multiple key features, including: the Comfort Rest foot support, a retractable purse hanger for security, both USB and induction charging, as well as button deck and displays at just the right height for player ease and enjoyment. These were all very important details that were taken into consideration to optimize the player experience. The Gaming Arts’ VertX team included company founder David Colvin, who led the way on the cabinet industrial design, and it also included Keith Kruczynski, VP of Game Development, Moises Navarrete, VP of Technology, Jason Babler, Director of Product Management and Jean Venneman, CCO. Jean Venneman, CCO of Gaming Arts commented, “In my decades of experience in product development, this is the first time that I’ve been involved with a company that has had the insight to include so many talented and experienced team members in the overall design process. We believe this inclusive iterative process serves to better the project in a great many ways from
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overall design to the fine details of the project. The end result is a product in which all Gaming Arts’ team members take personal pride.” As the content library work began, Keith Kruczynski, VP of Game Development, had one prime directive for his game design studio team and that was to develop new games that are truly exceptional in all respects to match the high standards of the new form factor VertX Grand cabinet. This includes developing games with inspiring game mechanics, innovative art and math models that will serve to excite players not only for the short term but to generate great player loyalty over time. (Continued on page 30)
GAMING ARTS: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”Best Of Breed”
(Continued from page 28)
The resulting launch library features the following titles: The Let’s Spin series of games including Let’s Spin and Let’s Spin Vegas which are games designed with the gambler in mind, combining exciting higher volatility math with exceptional excitement and fascinating wheel animations featuring four levels of multipliers to raise the adrenaline level as the anticipation grows. The Pub Series of games which allows players to tour the world with the Irish themed Kaleigh’s Pub, the Italian themed Sophia’s Cellar, the Latin themed Isabella’s Tequileria and the Russian themed Anastasia’s Tavern. This series of games relies on successful game mechanics coupled with spectacular art and proven math models to provide a thrill a minute for the player. Jackpot Go is a truly unique first-of-its-kind game that combines the thrill of slots with a touch of keno resulting in never-beforeseen game mechanics and multi-layer progressives to excite the true gambler in a brand-new way. Fat Dragon is sure to capture the hearts of players while he has a blast playing along with the player. Fun and excitement are the name of the game here with all the bells and whistles to make this a sure hit with players. Kung Fu Empress features their adorable Japanese empress who is highly skilled in the art of Kung Fu to knock out her enemies and entertain players while providing endless excitement along with high frequency wins during her beautiful animation sequences. Pop’N Pays More series of games, including Piñatas Ole and Big Top, are reimagined versions of these proven Gaming Arts themes in an all-new format relying on similar game mechanics that led to the success of the original dual screen versions. And, Gaming Arts has many more themes under development. Mike Dreitzer, CEO of Gaming Arts, commented, “This is a very exciting time for the company as we continue to expand into new markets with a host of new games and products. We fully
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expect the VertX Grand to be a key driver of this continued success.” Mike Dreitzer continued, “In a very short time, Gaming Arts has made a major impact on the slot industry. Hard work, dedication and vision are the name of the game and have paid off. At Gaming Arts, we consider ourselves “compulsively creative” in all we do, always leading with new innovation and never following.” Recently, Gaming Arts’ Heroes & Villains game, part of its patented Dice Seeker series of games, was named as “Top Performing Game from an Emerging Supplier” in the Annual EKG Slot Awards. (Continued on page 32)
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GAMING ARTS: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”Best Of Breed”
(Continued from page 10)
On the ETG front, Gaming Arts’ Casino Wizard electronic table game multi-game is taking North America by storm. The incredible performance of this platform in the ETG space which has been truly remarkable since its launch late last year with unparalleled performance, greatly outpacing most if not all electronic tables games in the market. Casino Wizard is a first-of-its-kind multi-game including Blackjack, Craps, Roulette and Baccarat along with fascinating proprietary high-hold side bets. At G2E, Gaming Arts will be introducing Casino Wizard’s new big brother, Casino Wizard VIP. This new game with a greatly expanded game lineup, along with a multitude of fascinating new side bets, will be available only on the Gaming Arts new VertX cabinet. Proven favorites like the Dice Seeker series will also be on display including the awardwinning Heroes and Villains theme. Additionally, new games for the Phocus cabinets will also take center stage including: the fastpaced Quick X series, the
Fortune Finders series, the Traveler series, Egyptian Gems series, and Cyber Dragon, a one-of-a-kind new Asian themed game that will be sure to delight gamblers everywhere. Premiering as well are several new games for Gaming Arts’ HaloTop wheel cabinet including the fun-loving Gumball Game, the hilariously scary Spooky Spins and Fortune Flip. As the world leader in keno systems and high stakes bingo, Gaming Arts will also continue its tradition of innovation in these areas at G2E, including the new TITO enabled and completely selfcontained EZ Keno kiosk. David Colvin, Chairman/Founder of Gaming Arts commented, “Even though G2E will be slimmed down this year, we look forward to introducing a multitude of new games and products. While others cut back their R&D efforts during the pandemic, we actually ramped up to make sure we would be able to exit the pandemic in the best position possible. I am extremely proud of all of the great people at Gaming Arts that have made all these advancements possible.” For more information visit GamingArts.com. $
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AGS: Global Gaming Expo 2021—”It’s All About The Games” Submitted By AGS
S
lot manufacturer AGS invites you to a Global Gaming Expo experience like no other October 5-7 in booth No. 1234 at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas. You’ll be transported to a rooftop party, where you can relax, reconnect, and rockout while frolicking with lucky cats, chubby chickens, wagging dogs, and dancing tiki men; these delightful slot characters debut in AGS’ robust product lineup for G2E, which spans Slots, Table Products, and online social and real money games. AGS Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications Laura Olson-Reyes said, “For us, this year’s G2E is all about the games and the opportunity to reconnect. After nearly two years of a pandemic, we are looking forward to meeting with our customers, investors, and partners in-person, which is why we’ve designed our booth to be open, inviting, and relaxed; a great place to enjoy a cold drink and catch up. At the same time, our innovation has not slowed down and we have a robust offering of premium and for-sale slot product and table products to showcase, as well as our AGS Interactive lineup of online real-money and social games for operators across the globe, including the growing U.S. online gaming market.” For its G2E Slot showcase, AGS will display content for the Class II, Class III, historical horse racing, and international market. Highlights include: • For its new Orion Curve Premium platform, AGS debuts a new in-line configuration, designed for elevated merchandising and social distancing. At G2E, this experience will showcase Golden Catch, launching the Wild Catch family, which highlights AGS’ use of VSync technology to create a community-style experience on the 49-inch portrait monitors as sea life floats from one game to the next, delivering winning potential as they go. • Also featured on the Orion Curve Premium in-line configuration are new player-selectable multi-denom Mega Boost Wheel Charge and Mega Boost WheelCharred, offering an upgradeable boosting wheel, cash on reels, and rewarding free games. • For its Orion Curve Premium platform with a 360-degree overhead digital display and game-themed spacers, AGS showcases new Ultimate Choice Jackpots games Atlantis Riches and Pots O’Luck, featuring an entertaining free games bonus with a persistent wild reel feature and exhilarating jackpot pick bonus.
34 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2021 | azgamingguide.com
• To support its award-winning Starwall x Orion experience, the Company debuts the Epic Reels family launching with Musha and Muoko. These stunning Japanese-themed games feature a hold-and-win mechanic, dual wheel bonus, and enhanced synchronization with the Starwall. Also taking center stage for the Starwall is the Prize Stacks family featuring Tiki Jungle and Tiki Shores, two vibrant island-themed games. An adorable tiki man makes frequent appearances in the games and on the Starwall as cascading wins add anticipation and the reels grow during free games for potentially bigger wins. • In AGS’ for-sale showcase, the Company is presenting an array of new games for its Orion Curve and Orion Slant platforms, with popular play mechanics like hold-and-spin, cash-on-reels, multipliers, free games, and multi-level jackpots. In its Table Products display, the Company will showcase highlights from its library of more than 50 table games, progressives, side bets, card shufflers, and table displays.
Taking center stage: • AGS’ award-winning Bonus Spin Xtreme progressive side bet system will be in the spotlight on a roulette table, showcasing its ability to connect and provide a single progressive jackpot for all table games, including community games like roulette, baccarat, and craps. With its groundbreaking design featuring three concentric wheels, Bonus Spin Xtreme awards all participating players with a community prize, with increasing communitystyle excitement as the wheel spins. • Another G2E highlight will be AGS’ newest card shuffler – the Pax S single-deck packet shuffler. Designed for specialty games, the sleek Pax S features sophisticated and secure card recognition technology, fits into existing table cutouts for ease of installation, and deals more than 50 table games. From AGS Interactive, the Company will showcase its online real money and social games and platforms. Highlights include: • A focus on AGS game content proven in land-based casinos and performing well online, including Capital Gains, Fu Nan Fu Nu, Golden Wins, Jade Dragon, and Rakin’ Bacon! • The Company, now live in Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania’s online markets, has partnered with operators across the globe to provide games to the world’s largest i-Gaming operators. For more info visit PlayAGS.com. $
azgamingguide.com | October 2021 | Arizona Gaming Guide
35
FUN & GAMES
WORD SEARCH
SUDOKU
To Celebrate Oktoberfest (the real one was cancelled this year), Find: OKTOBERFEST, GERMAN, BAVARIA, MUNICH, BEER, CELEBRATION, PROST, DANCING, FOOD, MUSIC, MUG, PARTY, DIRNDL, LEDERHOSEN.
Each of the columns, rows, and 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: MILD
Words appear in any direction. (Solution on page 38)
(Solution on page 38)
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Jokes & Quotes
Zodiac Lucky Numbers
Research shows that laughing stimulates the immune system and may help prevent or reverse some medical conditions.
Aries (March 21 – April 19): 1, 3, 19, 29, 50, 67 Taurus (April 20 – May 20): 4, 12, 14, 38, 54, 58 Gemini (May 21 – June 20): 11, 12, 13, 35, 55, 59 Cancer (June 21 – July 22): 8, 17, 23, 42, 46, 69 Leo (July 23 – August 22): 1, 3, 20, 34, 45, 59 Virgo (August 23 – September 22): 2, 15, 19, 30, 44, 64 Libra (September 23 – October 22): 9, 12, 17, 32, 43, 61 Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): 5, 13, 19, 39, 54, 58 Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): 3, 19, 20, 30, 56, 60 Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): 9, 12, 14, 34, 43, 58 Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): 11, 20, 25, 39, 53, 60 Pisces (February 19 – March 20): 1, 3, 21, 39, 53, 58
I sent out an email to Jim, John, and Jeff (not their real names) at a company we do business with today. These are the “Out Of Office” responses I received: From Jim: I’m out of the office today with limited access to email and phone. I will return at the end of next week. Please contact JOHN if you need immediate assistance. From John: I’m out of the office today with limited access to email and phone. I will return at the end of next week. Please contact JEFF if you need immediate assistance. From Jeff: I’m out of the office today with limited access to email and phone. I will return at the end of next week. Please contact JIM if you need immediate assistance. Why is it that the fewer the facts, the stronger the opinion? Unknown Live your life so the preacher doesn’t lie during your eulogy. Unknown
36 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2021 | azgamingguide.com
Lunar Year For This Month—Year Of The Metal Ox Best days to ask for good luck: 9, 11, 18, 23, 25, 30. Best days to travel: 1, 4, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 18, 21, 23, 26. Best days to meet with someone: 4, 5, 8, 10, 15, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27, 30. There is no overlap this month! Ranking second in the Lunar zodiac, Ox or Cow is the symbol of diligence in Chinese culture. People under the sign of the Ox are usually hard working, honest, creative, ambitious, cautious, patient and handle things steadily. Dates For Year Of The Ox: 01/24/1925-02/12/26, 02/11/37-01/30/38, 01/29/49-02/16/50, 02/15/61-02/04/62, 02/03/73-01/22/74, 02/20/85-02/08/86, 02/07/97-01/27/98, 01/26/2009-02/13/10, 02/12/21-01/31/22. Next year of the Ox is 01/31/2033-02/18/34.
888-243-3360 450
1500 E. Hwy. 69
Prescott
800-756-8744 258
05. Casino Arizona
101 & McKellips
Scottsdale
480-850-7777 936
Y
Y
06. Casino Del Sol
5655 W. Valencia Rd.
Tucson
855-765-7829 1,010
Y
Y
08. Casino Of The Sun
5405 W Valencia Rd
Tucson
855-765-7829
7406 S. Camino De Oeste
Tucson
855-765-7829 277
I-17, Exit 289
Camp Verde
800-381-7568 625
09. Cliff Castle Casino & Hotel 10. Cocopah Resort Casino
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
04. Bucky’s Casino
07. Casino Del Sol Marketplace
Y
Y
Y Y Y
Y Y
Y Y
Smoke-Free Area
888-727-2243 284
Parker
Y
Y
Spa
Dudleyville
11300 Resort Drive
Y
Arcade
Slots
Golf
Milepost 127 on Arizona 77
03. BlueWater Resort & Casino
Phone
Poker Room
877-272-2433 474
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
Y
Y
Y
8 Y Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
15318 S. Ave. B
Somerton
800-237-5687 477
Tucson
866-332-9467 1,136
12. Desert Diamond Casino-Sah.
I-19, Exit 80
Sahuarita
866-332-9467 591
13. Desert Diamond Casino-W.V.
101 & Northern Ave.
Glendale
833-332-2946 1,080
Y
14. Desert Diamond Casino-Why
Hwy. 86, Milepost 55
Why
866-332-9467
Y
Hwy. 87 & Ft. McDowell Rd.
16. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino
15406 N. Maricopa Rd.
Maricopa
480-802-5000 857
777 Hwy. 260
Pinetop
800-929-8744 505
1077 S. Kyrene Rd.
Chandler
800-946-4452 1,080
Hwy. 87, 1/4 mi. S. of Payson
Payson
800-777-7529 368
Yuma
888-777-4946 393
18. Lone Butte Casino 19. Mazatzal Hotel & Casino
Fort McDowell 800-843-3678 852
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 888-837-4030 125
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
480-850-7777 895 855-946-8946 Open
Y
Y
Y
6443 Komatke Ln.
Laveen
800-946-4452 1,230
Y
Y
5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd.
Chandler
800-946-4452 1,075
Y
Y
1505 E. Hwy. 69
Prescott
800-756-8744 277
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y Y
Y
facebook.com/ArizonaGamingGuide
Word Search Solution R L E D E C E I B S T M U S U M O N P R I A P D C R L O H T T T Y K I O O N B A
E R H O S E N T S C D E E I F L R R E M N E B U B R G A
V A R I A D O O F D A N C I N G
Sudoku Solution
G E R M A N
4
8
3
6
5
7
2
1
9
2
6
9
8
1
4
5
3
7
1
7
5
3
9
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8
5
2
7
4
6
9
1
8
3
8
4
1
7
3
5
9
2
6
3
9
6
2
8
1
7
4
5
7
1
8
5
4
6
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9
2
6
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9
2
3
8
7
1
9
3
2
1
7
8
6
5
4
38 Arizona Gaming Guide | October 2021 | azgamingguide.com
Y Y
Y
Y
Sources: AZ Dept. of Gaming—Current Tribal Gaming Status as of 07/01/2021 & direct inquiries at press time. Not responsible for incorrect information. Contact editor@azgamingguide.com to make updates.
azgamingguide.com
Y Y
Flagstaff
Use the QR codes for our website & Facebook Page!
Y Y
Y
Scottsdale
27. Yavapai Casino
Y
Y
I-40, Exit 219
25. Vee Quiva Casino 26. Wild Horse Pass Casino
Y
101 & Indian Bend
24. Twin Arrows Navajo Casino
Y
40
15. We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort 17. Hon-Dah Casino
Y
Y
Y
7350 S. Nogales Hwy.
11. Desert Diamond Casino-Tuc.
Y
Y
Y Y
