Gaming America G2E 2021 preview

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GamingAmerica.com

Sep/Oct 2021

G2E 2021 PREVIEW

A WARM WELCOME BACK Your complete guide to the return of in-person G2E as it navigates an industry that has had to adapt in order to thrive. • Bill Miller: A message from the AGA • Exhibitor and product reviews

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• Full schedule of G2E 2021 • Global Gaming Awards preview


SEIZING THE MOMENT The Global Gaming Expo has been a virtual shell of itself for the past year, but the show is back in residence at the Sands Expo Convention Center, and the excitement about reuniting is undeniable. In this G2E Preview, we give a taste of what will be on display in the grand corridors of the show: new products and innovative designs as far as the eye can see, and as far and you can hold them in your hands. Before some editorial teasers from companies that will set up shop, we hear from American Gaming Association president and CEO Bill Miller and G2E event organizer Korbi Carrison about the collective efforts put in to pull off this year’s show, as well as the anticipation of how those efforts will pay off. And if 2021 gaming revenue is anything to go by, and it is, this will be a show that will reflect that growth and unrestrained dedication to keep outdoing ourselves at every opportunity. After all, data from the AGA shows that this year is on track to be the best year ever for US commercial gaming. As each show tries to improve on the previous, it’s natural that considering the complications due to the pandemic, improvements also mean precautions. So in keeping with health and safety protocols, vaccination requirements will be enforced in order for exhibitors and visitors to take part. Luckily, the vast majority wanting to capitalize on as much potential at G2E are already compliant in this regard, so getting in will be as simple as flashing a vaccination card and having a facemask at the ready. So as we adjust to the harsh contrasts of blazing desert climate and relentless air conditioning, we welcome you to the premier event for commercial and tribal gaming professionals. There are other shows, of course, but G2E is the highlight in the gaming calendar that draws leaders and innovators in every vertical and discipline. Sports betting, of course, will be a massive theme this year, as well as strides in igaming and security, in keeping with the rapid acceleration of laws being passed. It can be dizzying keeping up with all the progress, but G2E will set it all straight. It’s an exciting time and an equally exciting future awaits. So however you plan to experience the show and all of its offerings and opportunities, we’re glad you’re here. Carl Friedmann Editor, Gaming America

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BILL MILLER

VIVA LAS VEGAS: G2E’S RETURN Bill Miller, president and CEO of the American Gaming Association, highlights all the positives to focus on ahead of the show. For 20 years, the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) has served as a highlight of the year for gaming professionals around the world. And after the year our industry has experienced, the American Gaming Association (AGA), in partnership with our friends at Reed Exhibitions, couldn’t be more excited to welcome the entire gaming community back to G2E this fall in Las Vegas. G2E 2019 was the highlight of my first year as CEO of the AGA. And like all of you, I’m looking forward to reconnecting with colleagues and walking the Expo floor to see the latest products after two years apart. This year’s show will recognize the grit and ingenuity that our industry has shown since March 2020. It’s that spirit that has allowed us to responsibly get back to business and get back together at G2E. If current trends are any indication, by the time G2E 2021 kicks off, we will be well on our way toward celebrating another milestone: a record revenue year for American gaming. Revenue figures from the first half of the year show 2021 on pace to be the best year ever for the US commercial gaming industry. Revenue from January to May operations hit an extraordinary $20 billion, 13% higher than the same period in 2019. It can’t be overstated how momentous an achievement this is, especially considering the lingering pandemic challenges and uncertainty around our country’s economic reopening at the start of the year. What’s more impressive is that brick-andmortar casinos are driving these record numbers, repeatedly hitting all-time monthly national revenue highs, a clear sign that guests feel safe at our properties, crave the excitement our industry brings, and want to return to the casino floor. G2E will continue to support our industry’s recovery by serving as a launchpad for new ideas and partnerships. The exhibit hall will look familiar with the exception of new health measures to ensure attendee safety. The games, payments solutions and other cutting-edge products debuted during G2E 2021 will soon be in properties or in the palms of our hands, fueling gaming’s recovery. Beyond the show floor, G2E will continue to bring the biggest names in gaming, sports and technology to our education 4 GAMINGAMERICA

BILL MILLER

program. This year’s themes cover top trends and give attendees industry insights they won’t get anywhere else on topics such as research, regulations and responsibility; sports betting; finance and investment; the customer experience; tribal gaming; and much more. As we eagerly anticipate all that G2E 2021 has to offer, many of us, myself included, appreciate all that it means to be a part of this industry now more than ever. Gaming led the way in responsible reopening. We extended a helping hand to our communities and frontline heroes. We served as testing sites and later vaccine clinics. It’s been a remarkable year for gaming despite the unprecedented challenges we've faced. I’m excited to reunite the industry for what’s sure to be an unforgettable G2E. Gaming’s future is bright, and I look forward to celebrating that with you in Las Vegas.

Editor’s note: This column was written in mid-July. For the latest on G2E 2021, visit GlobalGamingExpo.com.



KORBI CARRISON

WELCOME BACK An insider’s perspective on G2E with event director Korbi Carrison. The Global Gaming Expo has always been one of the most anticipated events in the RX (Reed Exhibitions) events portfolio, providing a unique experience to learn about the hottest innovations from one of the most exciting industries in the world, live in Las Vegas. Unfortunately, the pandemic put in-person events on pause, and it’s been nearly two years since we’ve been able to convene the gaming industry. We understand the value of gathering together and sharing ideas – and that’s why our team has worked with key stakeholders, including our show partner the American Gaming Association, veteran exhibitors, and the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM), among others, to determine whether we’d be able to host an in-person event in Las Vegas this year. We gathered input from potential attendees – especially buyers – about their interest in an in-person G2E. This spring, we conducted a survey to better understand buyers’ evolving mindsets and objectives, including how they viewed the impact of Covid-19 on business and plans for attending this year’s show. The results were a relief, and inspiring. Eighty percent of respondents said they wanted to participate in-person at G2E 2021, validating dozens of conversations we had over the last six months. Around the same time, Nevada regulators announced that larger group gatherings could resume, confirming our decision to move forward with an in-person show. With the announcement that G2E would return to Las Vegas, the gaming industry responded with excitement, and the buzz has been building steadily from that point. Since then, our entire G2E team has turned that excitement into action. As we plan all aspects of the show – including our much-anticipated keynotes, can’t-miss education sessions and robust networking opportunities – we’re thrilled to bring the global gaming community together again in October for the industry’s premier event. Exhibitors are also in full-on planning mode. They continually tell us G2E is their most important show of the year because it gives them the opportunity to showcase new and exciting products they plan to bring to market at a critical time in their customers’ buying cycle. It’s clear this year’s show floor will be unlike any before with product launches and new technology. As show organizers, health and safety are always our number-one priority, and we’re preparing to deliver on our promise of safely reconvening the global gaming industry. 6 GAMINGAMERICA

KORBI CARRISON

International travellers are a key component of G2E and from what we’ve heard from our friends abroad, there’s strong global excitement about the return of the show. We’re hopeful to welcome international travellers by October as the global travel landscape continues to evolve. Although we'd love to see everyone in Las Vegas, we also understand it’s important to have options for people who can’t attend in person. G2E 2021 will continue to engage our virtual audience with education sessions, virtual networking with attendees and exhibitors, and continued connection through G2E Insider Live and other G2E Digital content. For more than 20 years, G2E has united gaming, giving the industry an opportunity to learn from the best and brightest minds, share innovations, conduct business and connect with colleagues from around the world. With lots of innovation happening in core gaming and in expansion market sectors like sports betting, igaming and payments modernization, now is the ideal time to re-engage with the G2E event experience. Whether you plan to experience G2E 2021in person or virtually, we look forward to reconnecting and celebrating the resiliency of our incredible industry. See you soon! Editor’s note: This column was written in late-July. For the latest on G2E 2021, visit globalgamingexpo.com.



G2E

LAS VEGAS AT LAST! The wait is finally over! G2E returns to an in-person show again.

Despite a few more precautions put in place, this year’s Global Gaming Expo will be a welcome reunion on a truly global scale for the gaming industry. As the premier event for commercial and tribal gaming professionals, G2E is celebrating 21 years this fall. The show, held at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas from October 4 to 7 this year, has been a fixture in the gaming calendar ever since it began, serving as a focal point to reconnect, establish new relationships and simply be inspired by the scale and opportunity to see first-hand the cutting-edge technology and innovative products on display. Whether in-person or virtually, you’ll want to make the most of the G2E experience. With leaders in every vertical, from esports, developers, lottery and regulation to security, sports betting, slot providers and consultancies, G2E is a who’s who of top gaming industry professionals from commercial, tribal and international properties representing various business categories in the gaming ecosystem. Also, G2E Education this year will hit on the trends and news driving the industry featuring gaming leaders and innovators. The sessions are organized into seven topic areas and allow attendees to set an agenda to digest as much information as possible so they leave the Expo more equipped than when they arrive. Topics include research, regulations and responsibility to analyze gaming’s strong growth as a product for customers and communities. Finance and investment are also covered, looking at investments, mergers and the flow of capital, all of which have caused major shifts in the industry’s landscape. The customer experience, the critical tribal sector and the ever-expanding potential of sports betting are also 8 GAMINGAMERICA

key topics that will be covered. Of course, considering the world we live in now, G2E will require proof of Covid-19 vaccinations in order to attend the show. “Our highest priority for G2E 2021 is providing a safe and productive event for the global gaming industry,” said Meredith Pallante, VP, global events at the AGA. “We know how important vaccines are to continuing gaming’s strong recovery. Vaccinations are also one more tool to help us safely welcome the industry back to Las Vegas for another fantastic show.” The new requirement, supported by the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers, further aligns G2E with Nevada’s guidance regarding Covid-19 mitigation and reflects the changing state of the pandemic across the country. “We know how enthusiastic the gaming community is about G2E 2021 and we also understand the importance of hosting an event where everyone feels as safe as possible,” said Korbi Carrison, G2E event director. “We are continuously following government and public health guidance and having data-driven conversations with health and safety experts to guide our decision making. We’re thankful for exhibitors’ and stakeholders’ continued support throughout this process.” Small price to pay, though, for taking part in the gaming industry’s premier trade event, and having suffered through an unspeakably difficult year, punctuated with a one-year in-person hiatus due to the pandemic. “For over 20 years, G2E has been the leader in uniting the global gaming community and we are beyond thrilled to come together this October for the industry’s hallmark event,” added Carrison.



G2E 2021 SCHEDULE

SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

PRESENTED BY

MONDAY, OCTOBER 4 TITIAN 2301

9:00 AM - 9:50 AM

10:10 AM - 11:00 AM

TITIAN 2203

VERONESE 2402

The Next Frontier: Emerging Investment Areas

Emerging Leaders of Gaming: Where are we going?

iGaming: Is the Opportunity Real? What’s the Long-Term Outlook?

Looking at the Crystal Ball: The Gaming Industry’s Path Forward

Tribal Gaming: Finance and Investment Trends

Beyond Promotional Mailers: Marketing to the Next Generation of Gaming Consumers

How Technology Can Modernize Gaming Regulation: Part 2

Financial Crimes: Risks Related to Online Casinos and Sportsbooks

Three Years Post-PASPA: Where’s the U.S. Market Headed?

Presented by:

Player Crossover: Coverting Players Across iGaming Products

BREAK/GLOBAL GAMING AWARDS BREAK

12:20 PM - 1:40 PM

1:40 PM - 2:30 PM

How Technology Can Modernize Gaming Regulation: Part 1

TITIAN 2301

BREAK

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

11:30 AM - 12:20 PM

TITIAN 2301

Moving the Money: Digital Payments Myths, Misconceptions, and Opportunities

Captial Investors Roundtable: Trends in Captial Raises and Debt Financing

Lessons To Be Learned: How the U.S. Can Avoid an Advertising-Driven Backlash

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION: WORKING TOGETHER TO FIND SOLUTIONS VENETIAN BALLROOM F

5:00 PM

RECEPTION

SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

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TITIAN 2301

TITIAN 2203

VERONESE 2402

TITIAN 2301

TITIAN 2301


iGaming: Is the Opportunity Real? What’s the Long-Term Outlook?

10:10 AM - 11:00 AM

Tribal Gaming: Finance and Investment Trends

FINANCE & GLOBAL 12:20 PM - 1:40 PM INVESTMENT OUTLOOK

1:40 PM - 2:30 PM

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

How Technology Can 2021 Modernize G2E Gaming Regulation: Part 2

SCHEDULE

BREAK

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

11:30 AM - 12:20 PM

Looking at the Crystal Ball: The Gaming Industry’s Path Forward

RESEARCH, REGULATIONS & RESPONSIBILITY

Moving the Money: Digital Payments Myths, Misconceptions, and Opportunities

Financial Crimes: Risks Related to Online Casinos and Sportsbooks

Three Years Post-PASPA: Where’s the U.S. Market Headed?

Presented by:

THE BUSINESS THE CUSTOMER OF SPORTS BREAK EXPERIENCE BETTING

Captial Investors Roundtable: Trends in Captial Raises and Debt Financing

THE FUTURE OF GAMING

Player Crossover: Coverting Players Across iGaming Products

TRIBAL GOVERMENT & GAMING

Lessons To Be Learned: How the U.S. Can Avoid an Advertising-Driven Backlash

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 5 KEYNOTE PRESENTATION: WORKING TOGETHER TO FIND SOLUTIONS VENETIAN BALLROOM F RECEPTION

5:00 PM

TITIAN 2301

TITIAN 2203

VERONESE 2402

TITIAN 2301

TITIAN 2301

8:45 AM - 9:00 AM

G2E WECOME FROM BILL MILLER, PRESIDENT & CEO, AMERICAN GAMING ASSOCATION (AGA) - VENETIAN BALLROOM F

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

EXPO HALL OPEN

11:00 AM - 11:50 AM

Leadership for Seven Generations: A Fireside Chat with San Manuel Chairman Ken Ramirez

Crypto and Casinos: What Every Operator Needs to Know

Bringing Bettors Stateside

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

BREAK

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION

2:20 PM - 3:10 PM

2:20 PM - 3:10 PM

Betting Online: Educating the Customer on Spotting Bad Actors

Skins: A New Path to Online Market Access

North America’s New Frontier: Betting Exchanges and Esports

ICRG@G2E: What We Know About Gambling Disorder and Responsible Gaming

Sports Betting and Media Converge: Exploring the Future

Today’s Visionaries: A New Era for Gaming

Industry And Researchers: How To Work Together Better

TITIAN 2203

VERONESE 2402

TITIAN 2301

SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

TITIAN 2301

GAMINGAMERICA 11 TITIAN 2301


1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION

G2E 2021 SCHEDULE Betting Online:

2:20 PM - 3:10 PM

2:20 PM - 3:10 PM

Educating the Customer on Spotting Bad Actors

Sports Betting and Media Converge: Exploring the Future Skins: A New Path to Online Market Access

Industry And Researchers: How To Work Together Better ICRG@G2E:

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 6

2:20 PM - 3:10 PM

North America’s New Frontier: Betting Exchanges and Esports

What We Know About Gambling Disorder and Responsible Gaming

Betting Online: Educating the Customer on Spotting Bad Actors

Sports Betting and Media Converge: Exploring the Future

Today’s Visionaries: A New Era for Gaming

Industry And Researchers: How To Work Together Better

TITIAN 2301

TITIAN 2203

VERONESE 2402

TITIAN 2301

TITIAN 2301

TITIAN 2301

TITIAN 2301

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

TITIAN 2301

EXPO HALL OPEN VERONESE 2402

TITIAN 2203

Talent Challenges: How to Find and Develop Good Staff in a KEYNOTE BravePRESENTATION New World

Market Access: How Teams Are Changing the Sports Betting Landscape

10:00 AM - 10:50 AM 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM 11:10 AM - 12:00 PM 10:00 AM - 10:50 AM

EXPO HALL OPEN

From First Impression to the Casino Floor: Exploring the Customer Market Access: Journey How Teams Are Changing the Sports Betting Landscape

Going Live: Winning Big on In-play Wagering

From First Impression to the Casino Floor: Exploring the Customer Journey

Going Live: Winning Big on In-play Wagering

Talent Challenges: How to Find and Develop Good Staff in a Brave New World

BREAK

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM 11:10 AM - 12:00 PM

Modernizing Gaming Payments: Will It Take More Than a Pandemic?

12:00 PM- -3:20 1:30PM PM 2:40 PM

BREAK KEYNOTE PRESENTATION

Dollars and Sense: How the Intersection of Sports, Betting, and Media is Driving Bottom Lines

BREAK

Building A Sustainable Industry: Evolving Responsible Gaming to Meet Today’s Customer Needs Moot Court: Exploring the Reguation and Legality of Laying Off BuildingWagers A Sustainable Industry: Evolving Responsible Gaming to Meet Today’s Customer Needs Moot Court: Exploring the Reguation and Legality of Laying Off Wagers Esports Gamblification and Regulation: Coexistence or Resistance?

BREAK KEYNOTE PRESENTATION G2E EDUCATION ROUNDTABLES

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM Modernizing Gaming Payments: Will It Take 2:40 PM - 3:20 PM SCHEDULE SUBJECT TOMore CHANGE Than a Pandemic?

Dollars and Sense: How the Intersection of Sports, Betting, and Media is Driving Bottom Lines

Esports Gamblification and Regulation: Coexistence or Resistance?

G2E EDUCATION ROUNDTABLES

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

FINANCE & INVESTMENT

Today’s Visionaries: A New Era for Gaming

GLOBAL OUTLOOK

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

RESEARCH, REGULATIONS & RESPONSIBILITY

THE BUSINESS THE CUSTOMER OF SPORTS EXPERIENCE BETTING EXPO HALL OPEN

THE FUTURE OF GAMING

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE 12 GAMINGAMERICA

EXPO HALL OPEN

TRIBAL GOVERMENT & GAMING



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HAVE A PLAN A drone's eye view of the exhibitors at G2E As of August 18, 2021 Information Subject to Change

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GLOBAL GAMING AWARDS LAS VEGAS

AN AWARD IS THE BEST REWARD With the return of G2E also comes the highly-anticipated return of the Global Gaming Awards. It’s been two years since we were last at the Sands Expo Convention Center, but the wait is nearly over as we reunite in person. Now in its 8th year, the GGA will kick off G2E in style, celebrating the best in the industry across 14 categories. Without question, the Global Gaming Awards are the most prestigious Awards in the gaming industry, and while the event had to go virtual last year due to the pandemic, they’re officially back in person, hopefully for good. Not only is this comeback a validation of the strength of the industry, but with two additional categories added to the roster, it shows that even faced with the most unimaginable adversity, we’re all able to collectively recognize opportunities and maximize potential. To adequately uphold the growth being experienced in South and Central America, we present the Property: LatAm Award, which acknowledges the property, new or old, that pushes the boundaries of customer experience in the land-based sector. So now there will be two Property of the Year categories,

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GLOBAL GAMING AWARDS LAS VEGAS

with the other dedicated specifically to North America, a massive region with incredible scale and opportunities. There’s also the new Payment Solution of the Year Award, which recognizes the safe, fast and efficient payment processors, wallets and the rapid change in this sector. “These two new categories show the diversity of the industry and the growing presence of two key areas,” said Julian Perry, editor-in-chief of Gambling Insider and Gaming America. “Latin America is growing into such an important region within gaming that soon it’ll no longer even be considered an emerging market. And the Payments Solution of the Year category is an absolute must-have; payments are just so important now, especially with the growth of cashless and digital payments within North America.” The GGA are also the most trusted Awards in gaming, backed by lead partner BetConstruct and KPMG in the Crown Dependencies independently adjudicating them. With that kind of integrity in place, these Awards have gained the trust and admiration across the industry over the years. They’ve also been the source of great ambition since just making it onto

the Shortlist is a great accomplishment. Winning, of course is the ultimate aim, but being recognized is something to shout about, as well as build upon. It’s the full Awards package that ensures all winners are truly deserving, and is the highly coveted event that kicks off G2E. “KPMG’s commitment to and involvement with this sector is, I believe, unparalleled and that’s why we welcome the opportunity to support the Global Gaming Awards,” said Micky Swindale, COO at KPMG Islands Group. “The combination of a thorough selection process, a highly distinguished panel of judges and the organisers’ commitment to independent verification of the judges’ decisions means that any company or individual that makes it to the final Shortlist should be extremely proud.” With a focus on the Americas, winners for the Awards are chosen by a panel of 100 C-level industry executives, and every company or individual is narrowed down to the Shortlist for a specific reason announced in the official Global Gaming Awards Shortlist magazine. It’s a painstaking process considering the sheer amount of entrants and recommendations of the Awards’ independent Nomination Panel, but it all culminates on the first day of G2E. “Since 2014, the Global Gaming Awards have celebrated the gaming industry’s successes and innovations,” said Bill Miller, president and CEO of the American Gaming Association. “Regardless of who goes home with the Awards, there’s no better testament to gaming’s comeback than our ability to host the Global Gaming Expo (G2E), and Global Gaming Awards.” So once again, welcome back to the Global Gaming Awards in Las Vegas. They won’t be exactly how you remembered them, now with more virtual options and having to show proof of vaccination against Covid-19, but these are the necessary steps taken in order to showcase in person the best in the business. It’s the least that could be done to honor the efforts over the last year.

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AINSWORTH

A-STAR SHOW We spoke to director of product marketing and strategy at Ainsworth Game Technology, Mike Trask, about the upcoming G2E show and what the company will present, including the new A-Star Curve XL. "At G2E, Ainsworth will feature more than 100 games," says Mike Trask, Ainsworth's director of product marketing and strategy. "A highlight among these is our new A-Star Curve XL cabinet, which is something we also showed at NIGA, which features a 55-inch curved 4K gamescreen and is Ainsworth’s attempt to launch into the US premium market. "Our games at G2E will include titles for class III, class II and historical horse racing markets where we've seen tremendous growth over the last year across a number of US jurisdictions, starting with Kentucky and expanding into Virginia and Alabama. Recently, regulations opened the New Hampshire and Louisiana markets. This is a huge focus for us and has become incredibly powerful for the company over the last 12 months, so this will also feature heavily at G2E. "We will also present our Gambler’s Gold Keno product, which is something that stems from an acquisition of MTD in March 2020. This was recently launched in California and ultimately, we'll use G2E to show some of the unique markets that Ainsworth has done well in over the last year. NIGA was great to be back with everyone for the first time in 22 months, so G2E will feel equally good to be with our customers, partners and vendors. These shows are a big part of the industry and help to drive product cycles and hopefully we can meet safely. “

NUTS AND BOLTS OF THE A-STAR CURVE XL Ainsworth recently launched its A-Star Curve XL video slot cabinet, a premium cabinet that features a 4K 55-inch floating infinity monitor, dynamic LED lighting and a LCD button deck. This game package – complete with custom dynamic in-fill signage – debuted at the National Indian Gaming Association tradeshow in July and will be front and center at Ainsworth’s Global Gaming Expo display in October. The A-Star Curve XL also features the largest screen in the company’s history and a 27-inch LCD Topper. Casino operators will appreciate the ease and simplicity of these premium cabinets. The hardware includes a front-facing lock and horizontal door for easy maintenance. Despite its large screen, the A-Star Curve XL fits on a standard base at 26 inches wide and 27 inches deep. The cabinet will debut in the fall this year in several key slot markets including California, Nevada and 18 GAMINGAMERICA

Oklahoma. The hardware has been approved by third party testing facilitators and additional markets will be added later in the year. The A-Star Curve XL launches with a linked progressive game series called Take It or Leave It. This two-game family – Super Hot 7s Classic and Solid Gold 8s Classic – has been built to appeal to traditional slot players. Each title is a three-reel multi-denomination package and despite other variations available, Ainsworth recommends setting up games as $1/$5/$10 in a nine-line configuration with bet multipliers of 1-3-5. Take It or Leave It is highlighted by a massive wheel, potential for wins, and a progressive jackpot that starts at $50,000 at the $1 denom. Other games in the A-Star Curve XL roadmap will also be showcased at G2E.



BLUBERI

HARVEST SEASON After rebranding and launching a new website, slot developer Bluberi is reaping the fruits of its labor as a fresh corporate culture and product creation will take center stage at G2E. Bluberi has recently undergone some big changes. As detailed in our interview with the company’s CEO Andrew Burke for the current edition of Gaming America, the slot developer has rebranded the company and built a new website while entirely restructuring its leadership team to boot. Since Burke joined as CEO in early 2020, the company has been trying to implement a culture of entertainment and energy throughout the organization. This rebrand looks to set Bluberi apart from its more corporate competition. During his talk with Gaming America, Burke also highlighted the importance of appealing to prospective employees and finding people who fit the new culture instilled within the company, with events like G2E certainly helping.

LOOKING FORWARD TO THE SHOW "As a company, we are so excited for G2E," said Burke. "It will be the first one since I took over as CEO, as last year no one was able to attend due to the pandemic. Bluberi’s booth will first and foremost have our new brand on display. We will be showcasing new content for our Novus b49 cabinet, alongside products developed by our partner company bZillions, specifically a game called Reels of Steel, on our new Big Mech cabinet. Visitors will be able to meet our new team as well.”

STEP INSIDE THE BOOTH Bluberi’s showing will be centered on its Novus series b49 cabinet and the games it has to offer. First up is Devil's Lock, which allows players to team up with the devil, in a game featuring 15 individual reels and 40 possible winning lines. If a player lands a symbol with the image of the devil, they can win up to 6,000 credits. The game also features a free spins mechanic, which allows players to get a free round if the devil lands on the center reel, along with two free spins symbols on each side. Another game on show will be Waves of Fortune, also playable on the Novus b49 cabinet. Waves Of Fortune features a fishing motif, where players are put in the shoes of a fisherman hoping to catch as many fish as possible. Bluberi has said that this game showcases some of the key features of the Novus b49 cabinet, including its high-quality colors and images. The game also aims to attract players’ attention through the 20 GAMINGAMERICA

Insta Hit bonus, which is triggered when a bonus symbol covers all positions on reel five, and can award players prizes and even jackpots. And of course, as Burke mentioned, Bluberi’s Reels of Steel on the Big Mech or Big Mechanical cabinet. Ultimately the main goal of Bluberi’s show will be to emphasize its new brand, what it means and what colleagues and customers can expect from the company, from its logo to the new culture that has been instilled throughout.



GAMING ARTS

GAMING ARTS OF THE MATTER We catch up with Gaming Arts CEO Mike Dreitzer about its new VertX Grand cabinet and Let’s Spin games, all of which will be on show as the gaming industry meets again at G2E. For the upcoming G2E, Gaming Arts is proud to display its new VertX Grand cabinet, which creates a new dimension in cabinet design built to stand out on any casino floor. Its components have been carefully selected to maximize the gaming experience by balancing functionality, precision and entertainment. This includes its 4K 49-inch portrait display, theater quality sound, a large ultra-bright LCD button deck, programable LED play buttons, and LED side lights that illuminate spectacular eye-catching bonuses and attract sequences. These are some of the features that make us very excited to show it off at G2E. Beyond the VertX Grand’s visual design and technical features, an all-new exclusive game library makes its debut. This library of new games includes 11 new products for people at the show to try for the first time.

"AN EXCLUSIVE GAME LIBRARY WILL MAKE ITS DEBUT AT G2E, INCLUDING 11 PRODUCTS PEOPLE CAN TRY FOR THE FIRST TIME." Leading off these exclusive games will be the Let’s Spin series, including Let’s Spin Vegas and Let’s Spin. The Let’s Spin series is comprised of fast-paced and exciting new games. With our Let’s Spin series we want to provide players with thrilling rides coupled with exceptional entertainment and exciting wheel animations. These exclusive VertX Grand games feature four levels of multipliers that allow players’ winnings to grow, spin by spin. Additionally, Let’s Spin games also provide a four-level progressive to further enhance the player experience along with many 22 GAMINGAMERICA

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other exciting features. Ultimately, we're very excited about G2E and see it almost as a coming out party for our industry on the world stage. At NIGA we introduced our single screen 49-inch vertical box, the Vertex Grand, and it'll be available for us at G2E. This will be our main product by the time we're all at G2E. In addition to the VertX Grand we'll have more games for our dual-screen focus S104 box and continue to show a larger library of games. We also have partners in Japan and Chicago who help us build games and we'll show some products developed in those locations. In addition to that, we'll show some of our Keno kiosks that will allow casinos to offer the Keno amenity without the need for labor. Furthermore, we are exploring the many opportunities to get into the online space, which shows tremendous promise.



VELVIX

FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING Ahead of its first ever G2E appearance, Velvix speaks about the central role the company’s R&D team plays in creating products. This is our inaugural year for Velvix as an exhibitor at G2E Las Vegas and we’ll showcase our new titles, game types and our cabinet designs. We’ve worked hard to bring a variety of game types to the US market, including but not limited to wheel games, collection games, metamorphic jackpot indicators and even community games where randomized battles pit players against each other to win prizes. As Velvix is just entering the US market, everything we have to present at G2E will be brand new and inaugural for this year’s show. In addition to our unique game types and themes, our cabinets will act as the core centerpiece of our brand awareness efforts. We have three unique types including our CurlX, Climax and Twimax products. Each of these offers its own unique attributes, such as our 4K resolution C-curve screen on our CurlX product, or our 4K portrait screen on our Climax product. We’ve loaded the cabinets with some of the latest technology including virtual programmable button decks and wireless charging units for players' mobile devices. Edge lighting makes the game play attractive and exciting wherever the cabinets are placed on the casino floor. In regard to what inspires our products, our research and development team is at the center of our game development program. Our brand mantra heavily promotes the connection of our R&D team with player and casino operator feedback. Our goal is to develop new gaming titles quickly for clients as we want Velvix to be regarded as an EGM firm that quickly delivers quality products based on client feedback into the marketplace. Our sales team is trained to collect and deliver product feedback to our R&D team to ensure market demands are catered to when we develop game titles or enhancements to our cabinet product lines. Another unique point is our East-West connection. Velvix is born out of a team that spans from Taiwan to Australia to the United States. As such, our team brings a global understanding of market trends and player demands. Visitors to our booth will notice some of our games take on a very Western feel, while others integrate elements of Asian themes and Chinese symbolism such as our House of Happiness title. We're also integrating elements of table game play as we see 24 GAMINGAMERICA

this trend increasing across various markets, including in the United States. We have started by integrating the dice thematics of Sic Bo into our Dice ‘Em Up game title. Ultimately, trade shows such as G2E are vital to our success as an EGM developer. The fact that this is our inaugural show puts an even greater emphasis on participation this year. Covid has put many business development opportunities on hold for us, including the chance to connect with our customers and industry colleagues. We’re excited to be able to reconnect for the first time here in Las Vegas. Additionally, we value these shows for the feedback given by visitors. A key aspect of our brand mantra is integrating R&D with customer feedback, and we take this very seriously. Our entire team is trained to ensure that we receive feedback on all our games, software titles and our cabinets in order to help our team design great products players and casino operators will love. We also look to trade shows for the identification of new business partners, especially in the technology sector. We aim to further develop Velvix as a household name in the EGM industry throughout the United States, and want to do so with only the best partners and by integrating the latest in technology to consistently give our products a competitive edge.



INCREDIBLE TECHNOLOGIES

PREPARE TO LAUNCH Dan Schrementi, president of gaming at Incredible Technologies, talks G2E, entering new markets and developing products from home. G2E remains what we would call the Super Bowl of gaming events. Everyone brings their hottest new products. While this year a lot of international customers may not be able to attend, we expect 2022 to be a big capital spending season, which means G2E can act as launch season for all the products we hope will take off in the next year. I think the industry will put its best foot forward this year. Currently, most companies develop products for the same verticals. So I expect G2E to go one of two ways. Hopefully, after having a year to develop new products, companies will come with their best, most innovative content, or they'll continue to show their standard product lines. We certainly hope to see some big new ideas that move the industry forward.

WHAT'S ON SHOW Because in-person G2E 2020 was cancelled, our R&D schedule was altered. We've worked on a new slot machine cabinet that doubles as an entirely new platform called the Prism VXP. We see this product in its own category, a mix of a portrait and a dual-screen box, and call it a VXP due to a 55-inch screen that moves up and down during gameplay using an electric motor. Developing something with moving parts has been a wild experience during Covid. The Prism VXP is our top product for G2E and is currently on beta test in a number of locations around the US so G2E is timed perfectly for us. We're also entering the electronic table game market for the first time with our Grand Crystal 2 product, which allows us to compete in the roulette, baccarat, craps and bingo segments having partnered with Slovenian company Zuum. G2E will see us introduce both the craps and roulette games for this. Our third focus for G2E is our class II release. We've been working on launching class II throughout the US in the last months and G2E will be a great opportunity to show these.

FINDING A NICHE Entering new markets is hard, especially such a competitive one with companies that have established formulas of what the market wants. But we still see a lot of opportunity in the electronic table game market in the sense that not every casino in the US has them. That is one focus for us. The next is providing an opportunity for people who wish to work with a smaller vendor able to give them more attention. While our first few launches into electronic table games 26 GAMINGAMERICA

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might not reflect huge changes to the existing formula, we plan to start approaching things from an innovative angle to try to find a new niche. When it comes to developing new products, we look back on our roots in video games. We learned that it's all about the game and the attraction of the game. So how you retail the game is what we've focused a lot on in the last few years. Covid ultimately became an opportunity for us to develop the attraction aspect of our games, allowing us to space releases and create solutions that allow players to be more comfortable while playing. In terms of trends, hold and spin games are very popular, as well as persistence style games. We've also seen a lot of innovation in multi-denomination games that allow users to bet different amounts to trigger new features.



SPORTING SOLUTIONS

A SOLUTION FOR US SPORTS BETTING Andy Wright, CEO of Sporting Solutions, speaks about what will be presented at G2E and how vital the show will be to the sports betting industry. Events like G2E are critically important to us. Having a chance to meet existing and potential customers, and illustrate and detail what's on our roadmap as a company, is vitally important for our engagement model. It's also enormously beneficial for us to get a look at how our competitors are approaching the market and of course, it's great to finally meet people again. Our focus at G2E will always be on our heritage of pricing trading and risk management. Being market leaders in this specific part of the value chain is very important to us. Our showcase will mainly be centered on these focus areas and we'll show how we have strengthened our core competency. As a company, it's clear there's a requirement for this expertise. As operators continue to push their marketing spend to acquire customers, it's important we work to both retain these customers but also monetize these new users, which is particularly difficult in a market like ours. This is why we choose this as an area of focus to show at events like G2E. Everything we will be presenting, as well as everything we develop, starts with the customer, or as Sporting Solutions call them, partners. It's important that we recognize that a cookie cutter approach will never work as every partner and every customer is different. These partners aren’t just different on a legislative and jurisdictional level but also on a personal level. So we want to create close relationships with our customers by being specific with each one and treating them distinctly through understanding their business and relying on data to provide them with the best service. It is also crucial that we anticipate what is to come as the market evolves. “

THE US SPORTS BETTING MARKET There are many European operators that have focused on the US as a growing market which will behave the same way that the European market developed. Many predicted it would compete on market debt, then on price, move to marketing bonuses and then finally land on product. Clearly the US has developed differently. It's extremely nuanced. State by state and month by month things change. Sports betting has only been 28 GAMINGAMERICA

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widely available for a short time and we had the pandemic, so that created a unique environment. But once this market normalizes and matures, data will become of central importance. This is especially the case in US sports betting as their sports are heavily reliant and laden with data. US customers have a thirst for it, and being able to harness this to create products will be crucial. I also think there will be sports that become attractive outside of traditionally popular sports, like how tennis is a top-three product for most sportsbooks, mostly due to its consistent production of data. Ultimately the US, with its passion for data and different approach to consuming sport will find different products that will become key for the market. I believe that European operators will see these changes and adapt their products globally.”



INTERBLOCK

INTERBLOCK PARTY Michael Bartlett speaks with Interblock CEO John Connelly about how demand for stadium technology games is growing, and the company’s response to it. interactive, which is attractive for those visiting a casino in pairs or in groups, and want to play together. Casinos have always been a solitary environment. We've found that those stadiums appeal to those people, while we also have standalone games for those who want to play at their own speed. We see casino floors continuing to expand with this new technology because it appeals to new players and reduces operating expenses.

How do such products, and shows like G2E, help you expand?

JOHN CONNELLY

G2E attracts the decision-makers in the gaming industry so we’re proud to share our latest technology and products to address very specific needs of the casino sector. This G2E will be unique due to new restrictions and we're working on contingency plans to address unknowns heading into the show.

What R&D went into the products you’ll be showing?

What products will Interblock showcase at G2E? With the proliferation of Covid, we still believe in providing tools for players and dealers. We continue to expand our portfolio and one of the fastest growing parts is stadium technology and pulse arena. We’ve signed deals with 80% of the casinos on The Strip and Downtown within a few months, which is unusual. If you walk into any of these casinos, you’ll see a concept that allows casinos to have live dealers running these games, or in off-peak hours, an automated system. We’re also working hard to produce universal cabinets that create distance between players and dealers, and we’ll showcase those kinds of products, their packaging, and software that brings new functionality. We’re emphasizing technology to increase the handle hold percentage of the products for our casino customers while reducing labor expenses. The latter is important given the shortages. We're focused on yielding more thruput to make the products more profitable, while attracting new players.

What market trends led you to develop these products? ETGs make up less than 2% of casino floors in North America. We’re even at the beginning of understanding who plays. One factor we’ve been able to identify is players who are distinctly different. The stadium environment is dynamic and very 30 GAMINGAMERICA

One of our primary philosophies is to be data-driven. We spend a lot of time gathering data to allow better decision making, and work closely with partners to dictate future product roadmaps. Plus, we work to augment this information with 30 years of intrinsic knowledge to layer on top of the innovation we're known for. We’re constantly trying to improve, but this methodology has led our product portfolio to expand four-fold in the past five years, while the company has sustained double-digit growth for six years running despite the impact of Covid.

How did last year factor into creating new ideas? The gaming sector has seen certain segments expand due to Covid, like online gaming and ETGs. Even after live tables reopened, occupancy and handle of our games continued to grow. This new player base, and the existing base, had an opportunity to experience the technology and innovation we've been building, and there was an appeal. This trend that we've seen over the past two years has continued, and we forecast growth in electronic games due to a transition in the North American players’ behavior. The ability to maintain productivity can be seen in many ways across the gaming sector. Keeping up the supply chain is a challenge for all companies, and has created a tremendous strain on certain parts of the sector. But we continue to navigate our way and address those challenges.



NOVOMATIC

FOCUSED AND FINE TUNED Kathleen McLaughlin, VP of marketing and product management for Novomatic Americas previews the company’s G2E showing, including their new Signature Tower Design. We're looking forward to G2E. Customers will see many creative new product lines showcased alongside a variety of our entertaining premium content, core content, systems and exciting new progressive jackpot products. We've focused on diversifying our progressive product offering and leveraged the tremendous success of the Thunder Cash link and Money Party link. The Money Party link remains number one or two on the Eilers report for small suppliers and continues trending well in almost all markets. Given those successes, we're following with a new Thunder Cash link progressive called Voodoo Magic, which adds to the already successful brand. Using our new Signature Tower Design, the Voodoo Priestess, Marie Noveau, comes alive with the magic of the Bayou. For an exciting entertainment experience, Novomatic Americas will launch the Ultra Boost link progressive, giving a lift to the popular lock-and-spin feature. This family of games has three exciting titles: Grand Eagle, Tiger Storm and Great American Buffalo. Players will unlock two matrices and can accumulate wins simultaneously. The bright, retro design draws players from across any casino floor. Novomatic has also released several stunning families of stand-alone progressive titles. The attractive mix of games, including Eternal Mandarin Ducks, Royal Crane and Noble Peacock progressives are available on multiple premium cabinets. Leveraging the success of the Dancing Series of games, enter the Dancing Tiger Gold and Dancing Lantern Gold progressives' desirable rising lantern jackpot mechanics and trigger features. 32 GAMINGAMERICA

And if you like Mythology jackpot madness, play the Mythological Creatures family of games, with the Mighty Minotaur and Enchanted Pegasus paying Power Prizes galore. We also have surprises in the sports betting terminal segment and in casino and route management systems. And our NovoReward redemption kiosk is next level kiosk design. Events like G2E are critical for us to connect with our customers and present our products in a visually impressive way. It's the premier event for commercial and tribal gaming, and it's key to reunite as an industry and to energize our business. We remain in touch with our customers throughout the year, but this is the chance for our team to put our best development foot forward and personally demonstrate our products to customers. For our products, we focus on several key items: progressive progression, hold-and-re-spin games, creating compelling multi-game sets within the VGT (Video Gaming Terminal) markets and creating our own recognizable brands. Creating those internally branded, successful product lines has be a real differentiator for us. We've also focused on bringing innovation to the sports betting terminal landscape you'll see the results of that inspiration and hard work in our booth this year. Last year gave us time to focus and fine tune our development and have a higher degree of success with the products brought to market. With help from our parent company, we'll have the most game titles, progressives, sports betting and system innovations than we ever had.



GLOBAL PAYMENTS GAMING SOLUTIONS

A NEW WAY TO PAY We spoke to Global Payments Gaming Solutions president Chris Justice on the company’s cashless focused G2E showing and the accelerated adoption of modern payment methods. While last year’s G2E was virtual, GPGS is excited to welcome back visitors to our in-person booth, where they will be walked through a complete, resort-wide cashless experience. While the total cashless ecosystem will be showcased through the eyes of the patron, it will highlight the benefits and operational advantages for the casino operators, as well. GPGS booth visitors will be taken on a journey through our end-to-end integrated experience that delivers a seamless experience of bill breaking, e-check, ATM and cash advances to casino guests. A journey that eliminates the need to stitch multiple vendors together, highlighting that our solutions are a one stop shop for all required banking and payment relationships. GPGS is excited about providing a personal look at our industry leading solutions, VIP Mobility, VIP Financial Center and VIP Preferred, as well as the systems that support these consumer-facing products behind the scenes. G2E not only provides the latest options for gaming and entertainment for casino operators, but it provides invaluable education and resources to stay compliant with regulations like Title 31 and so many others. It also provides a much-needed networking opportunity for industry leaders to exchange ideas and feature solutions, such as our VIP Mobility and our extensive work around Title 31 compliance. A key influence that inspired our showing is undoubtedly the decrease in cash use. Consumers often choose to not only go cashless but they're seeking the ease of electronic transactions in their gaming experience too. That desire presented challenges for many casino operators since cash remained a key component on gaming floors. GPGS’ end-to-end resort cashless experience has solved that concern and played a major part in our showing this year. Covid completely changed the business landscape and its impact on the gaming industry and its operators, which for so long had centered around cash and physical contact. Consumers have transitioned to self-service in order to decrease their risk of exposure and infection, as well as take advantage of additional forms of payment. So VIP Mobility, with its low lift on the network and regulatory requirements and staff training, enables a true cashless and contactless casino gaming and resort experience while providing an easier, more efficient way to fund play. The VIP Mobility 34 GAMINGAMERICA

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solution is system agnostic and gives casino operators the flexibility and opportunity to reduce costs while facilitating a seamless player experience from funding through cash-out. Also, as the guest experience moves from casino to casino, VIP Mobility eliminates the need for multiple sign-ups or enrollments. The customer’s funds seamlessly follow them across physical and even online gaming experiences. Our VIP Financial Center also supports the industry’s first true full-service solution that provides convenient TITO, bill breaking, e-check, ATM, and cash advance capabilities. Both it and VIP Mobility tie in perfectly with VIP Preferred, which allows customers to utilize a single account that's accepted at more than 500 casinos and interactive gaming sites. VIP Preferred eliminates the need for paper checks, allowing you to register up to four accounts and features seven-day rolling limits, all with 24-hour customer support. Combined, they not only enhance the player experience, but help casinos maximize spend across all physical and digital properties.



SUZOHAPP

TAKING THE LONG VIEW APPROACH SuzoHapp is a leader in manufacturing and distributing gaming, amusement and sports betting products, and have served operators and OEMs for over 60 years. The company’s G2E presence will include their new sports betting terminals and here we learn about their perspective of having G2E back in person. Can you tell us about what you will be showing at this years G2E. Is there anything new you are showing off? Absolutely! We’ve been very busy over the past few months developing new products that we will be showcasing at G2E. We’ve developed a new line of sports betting terminals including the SBT-1000 and the SBT-500 which will be featured at the show. The SBT-500 is our latest design specifically engineered and designed for a tabletop setting to encourage in-game bets and extended play. Designed with a slant to have minimal opportunities for spilling but also manufactured with welded seams to ensure any stray liquids or food particles won’t harm the components, we’ve done our homework to figure out as many situational use cases for this as possible. We’ve also begun a new partnership with CountR as a distributor of their cash redemption terminals. We're very excited to premier their CashIO line as well. Also new is our latest video topper, the SH1950 and a corresponding handle mechanisms that are sure to draw attention to your game. We’re excited to see everyone again at the show.

"WE TRY TO TAKE A LONG VIEW APPROACH THAT'S CUSTOMER CENTRIC." What are some of the market trends you take into account when developing your products? We try to take a long view approach that is customer centric when developing products. Our designs are meant to be applicable not just now but also five, 10 years down the road. 36 GAMINGAMERICA

Specifically when it comes to our sports betting terminals, we have years of experience in sports betting in Europe and years in the gaming industry here in the US that lend us to really understand how these products are used and what potential failure points are. We work hard to ensure we can prevent those failures with strategic designs, such as the slant and welded seams on the SBT-500 that’s meant for an environment where customers are placing bets at the same time that they’re potentially eating and drinking. Creating those safeguards with tried and true components means our products will last in these tough environments for years to come and lower your overall total cost.

What are you most excited about for attendees to see in your booth? While we’re very excited about our new products, I think we’re most excited to have attendees see our team. The past year and a half have been a challenge for many and our face-to-face interactions have been minimal. Our team is second to none in this industry with years of experience and great relationships. We’re ready to bring those relationships front and center with our team presence back at the show.



TCSJOHNHUXLEY

THE BODY ELECTRIC TCSJOHNHUXLEY executive chairman Tristan Sjöberg speaks about the company's latest electronic gaming solutions to make their debut at G2E. in Europe and Asia. But now more than ever, operators are seeing the benefits ETGs provide by maximizing floor space through unlimited flexible configurations, optimizing resources and improving security, which in turn can increase revenue. Qorex is the first fully in-house designed and developed electronic gaming solution from TCSJOHNHUXLEY and provides a complete package for operators looking to create player excitement and a striking focal point on their gaming floors.

How did last year change the design process for new products? We had to make changes to the usual way we do things. When casinos around the world were closed, we had the opportunity to look at and refine certain products and services, as well as streamline operations. Our development teams have also been very proactive, developing innovations that will filter through soon. We're also working closely with our customers to understand budget constraints. If there's any capital available, it's focused on revenue generating products or with a focus on security – game protection products, that safeguard revenues. Luckily our portfolio is extensive and diverse enough with many products playing to these strengths.

You've announced you'll supply the new Resorts World Las Vegas. What is the process like for securing these deals? What new products are you going to showcase at G2E? Making its US debut will be Qorex HiLite, part of our Qorex Electronic Gaming Solutions package. This follows the recent Nevada Gaming Board approval for our Qorex range and the successful installation of the system at The Strat in Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort Reno. We'll present various Qorex configurations along with the Qorex HiLite system, which is a range of products featuring striking LED displays and podiums that connect to the centralized system for full synchronization of the game. Like the rest of the Qorex system, Qorex HiLite is modular in design, fully flexible and able to create almost unlimited layout configurations that enhance UX and provide a stunning centerpiece on the gaming floor.

What makes these products innovative and unique? The popularity of electronic gaming has been steadily growing in the US prior to the pandemic, although very much established 38 GAMINGAMERICA

We're extremely proud of this, having enjoyed a long relationship with the group for many years. We apply this strategy to develop business partnerships with all our customers rather than just being a supplier of products. As such, these relationships are established over many years and consist of ongoing consultation and development of products and ideas that provide solutions for our partners. It’s very much a two-way relationship. This ranges from large-scale, multi-billion-dollar projects like RWLV to niche products and services for specific projects or promotions. Whatever the brief, we apply the same attention to detail and effort to ensure we deliver quality, innovation and reliability, so the end result exceed expectations.

How important are in-person shows to your brand? They're vital to the industry, for the land-based sector especially. This is an experiential industry that can't be replicated online. Plus, gaming is an entertainment business and the people in it thrive on meeting up, connecting and networking.



OPTX

EMBRACING AI We spoke to Brooke Fiumara, co-CEO at Optx on its upcoming showing at G2E, as well as the future of the gaming industry and how AI is ready to take us there. At this year’s G2E we'll be showing our products that focus on slots, marketing and player development and for each of these products we have a new and technologically advanced artificial intelligence enhancement or component that really brings these core offerings to the next level. One of the things I’m most excited about is showing operators that there are tools out there, ours being one of them, that block and tackle the day-to-day challenges of casino and gaming operations, using the advancements of modern technology and preparing properties for a future which is more proactive rather than reactive. Shows like G2E really give operators a single place to view all of the latest and greatest technology that’s available in the market place and I think there is tremendous value for operators spending time, walking around and looking at non-legacy products. We know the big companies that have been around for decades but G2E gives newer companies, like Optx, the ability to really show what we are doing and why it is different. For me, I’m excited to reach new customers that I normally wouldn’t be able to get in front.

ON AI Going down the route of AI is rooted in the decision that operators constantly have to make, that being the choice between the right answer for the business and the practical answer that a business choses due to limited resources. We want to provide the opportunity for business to execute the right answer, and make it easy, where historically great teams know what they need to do, but lack time, resources and access to the information to execute the right decisions. We want to take the friction out of this decision and allow operators to execute top level, very detailed strategies quickly and seemingly through a tool like Optx. The gaming industry is at a precipice of immense change. Things are becoming less about what is happening within the four walls of a casino, and becoming more about what’s happening on the outside. With race and sports, social gaming, igaming and cashless, these are all incredibly important attributes to the decisions you make around players and around assets on your property, but they are all influenced by data 40 GAMINGAMERICA

BROOKE FIUMARA

collected outside of a brick-and-mortar space. Properties that consider all of this data and use more advanced AI algorithms to predict and profile customers, I think, is the future. There is so much data and information that exists around players and the property and it only continues to grow as these new sources of information are brought online (cashless, social, igaming, R&S just to name a few). AI and ML models can identify meaningful and marketable attributes around customers and machines long before traditional methods can, allowing operators to be faster and more direct with their marketing and slot operations strategies.



FLEXIA

TRUE CASHLESS Flexia president Scott Walker speaks about the company’s G2E showing, specifically its cashless solutions and what led to its creation. management and security concerns of large amounts of cash in casinos. The US gaming market had discussed “cashless” for years, but with limited progress. Over the past year, there's no doubt that the ongoing pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital payments on the casino floor, as safety has become the top priority for both casino operators and patrons. At the same time, gaming facilities have rolled out different forms of cashless gaming– casino gaming, sports betting, igaming/ online gaming – to provide greater offerings to their customers and to expand their revenue flow. This has created an even greater need to create a seamless and convenient experience for the player and has helped speed our entry into the US gaming market.

What will you be showing at G2E this year?

What makes Flexia’s products innovative?

We are excited to demonstrate how Flexia adds to the customer experience by delivering a truly cashless solution that provides players ease and flexibility to fund their gaming accounts, and extends casino loyalty benefits beyond the walls of the casino. Linking gaming accounts with the external payments ecosystem and enabling customers to earn loyalty points for spend outside of the casino, The Flexia Cashless Solution combines multiple accounts – on-premise and online gaming, casino loyalty program, and a Mastercard debit account in a single gaming card and mobile app. Our app lets players control their own funds, load money directly from their bank account or debit card and transfer between their digital wallet, gaming accounts and their favorite game without having to leave their seat on the gaming floor. The mobile app aims to make it simple for players to cash out of their gaming account and to easily access their funds outside the casino on the Mastercard network or at ATMs. An important benefit of the Flexia cashless solution is our deep tie-in to the casino’s loyalty program. Patrons earn loyalty points from casino play and Mastercard spend both inside and outside the casino, allowing customers to achieve VIP loyalty status faster and access unique, member-only promotional benefits customized to their preferences and spending habits.

Since presenting our cashless solution to the Indian gaming community at NIGA in July, we've received a tremendous response from casino operators and major industry suppliers, and have generated strong publicity from the media. The flexibility of our cashless solution aims to modernize the process of funding and using gaming accounts and increased loyalty program benefits for customers by combining the registration and on-boarding process. It provides instant access to electronic funds transfers and extends the casino loyalty program to everyday spending by the customer. The unique Flexia omnichannel cashless card, issued in minutes at the casino, and multifunctional mobile app enable the customer to seamlessly have access to their funds when and where they want them.

What market trends or inspirations led to the development of the products you'll be showing at G2E? When we initially launched our solution in Mexico in 2019, our primary focus was to address casino operators’ needs for cash 42 GAMINGAMERICA

How important are trade shows like G2E to Flexia and the gaming industry as a whole? What are you most excited about for the show? G2E is the perfect stage as once a year, people from all over the world converge on Las Vegas to exchange ideas, view the newest innovations in the gaming world, and meet with friends in the industry. Despite the challenges that the last year and a half has brought to our industry, we see renewed opportunity and growth for our team and for the entire industry. We are excited to showcase our cashless solution to the global gaming market during G2E and look forward to demonstrating what’s possible both now and in the future of cashless gaming.



PASSPORT TECH

ALL ACCESS PASS Passport Technology will have the latest payments solutions for gaming on display at G2E, all in its effort to better the player experience. Passport Technology and Automated Systems America (ASAI) merged in August this year, solidifying the company as the fastest-growing international payments company supporting brick-and-mortar casino resorts, online wagering operators and associated payments verticals. Passport’s suite of payment, regulatory compliance and automation solutions for gaming operators include transaction processing, digital payments, loyalty and rewards, cashier automation, regulatory and compliance software, real-time analytic promotions, merchant services, and bank-sponsored ATM processing. Passport continuously provides purpose-driven product enhancements with a keen focus on improving the patron experience.

NEXT GENERATION SELF-SERVICE REDEMPTION KIOSKS CashStream, with its sleek design, features a compact footprint without compromising visibility or capacity and is available with best-in-class, nationwide hardware support. CashStream features the most technically advanced PCI-compliant components on the market and is unmatched in hardware security, fraud prevention, reliability and uptime. Integrated with Passport’s portfolio of fintech services, cash automation, digital payments and player loyalty, CashStream positions itself as the most advanced kiosk for tomorrow’s casino.

for managing and creating employee banks. By automating the till-building process, employees can begin and end their shifts quickly. Passport’s proprietary software leverages best-in-class hardware, reducing time overhead and maximizing employee productivity. Featuring an external transit cassette, the machine can be loaded and audited securely without opening the safe or dropping cash.

TITLE 31 AND AML COMPLIANCE AUTOMATION GuardianPro aggregates and tracks patron and transaction data across the gaming floor with a highly intuitive interface. Patron KYC features include TIN check, DMF, OFAC and numerous international verifications. Guardian Pro streamlines the creation, review and submission of MTL, CTR and SAR to fulfill FinCEN reporting requirements.

CASHLESS PAYMENTS AND DIGITAL WALLET CashLoop addresses the accelerating shift of cashless payments and provides patrons convenient, fast and secure access to funds through numerous interactive touchpoints, including table games, slots and online platforms. CashLoop delivers a fully integrated gaming experience across Passport’s product suite and leverages evolving technologies to ensure patrons and operators can integrate digital payments and wallets throughout their payment ecosystem.

CAGE CASHIER AUTOMATION

CHECK WARRANTY SERVICES

Delivering unrivaled automated cash handling at the cage, LiveCage streamlines the cash payout process for faster and more accurate transactions. LiveCage automates cashier drawers, increasing staff efficiency, reducing variances, and providing cashiers with the time to create a better customer experience. Passport’s proprietary data-capture module allows transactions to be captured from any software, populating transaction details without manual cashier intervention.

With Passport’s warranty check cashing services, patrons can access their funds while eliminating the risk to casinos. Transactions are powered by Fiserv, leveraging advanced risk scoring analytics and real-time reaction to fraud risks.

EXPEDITED JACKPOT DISPENSING Jackpot Pro is the fastest and most efficient way to expedite the jackpot dispensing process for slot attendants. Using Jackpot Pro will guarantee swift transactions for casino patrons while minimizing cash losses.

SELF-SERVICE EMPLOYEE BANK BUILDING BankBuilder Pro is the most progressive cash recycling solution 44 GAMINGAMERICA



JCM GLOBAL

A TRIPLE BILL FOR G2E JCM Global automated transaction technologies and solutions company works in diverse industries such as banking, financial, gaming, kiosk, retail, transportation and vending. Here's what they'll have on offer at this year’s Global Gaming Expo. With more than 65 years of innovation and creativity to draw from and build on, JCM Global will once again be at G2E with a host of new technologies designed to enhance the guest experience, boost security and increase efficiencies across the casino floor and count room.

ENHANCING THE GUEST EXPERIENCE JCM’s innovative digital signage solutions are flexible like the spaces they illuminate, and as varied just like the content they display. At this year’s G2E, JCM will feature a broad range of display solutions, including DSS Floor and Cube in stacked and hanging configurations, the DSS Flex, and the DSS Max-R video wall. JCM system solutions aim to enhance the guest experience and include the Fuzion system and associated technologies, as well as the Peripheral Network Adapter (PNA), NFC Mobile I/O, and iTITO, all of which give players more choices and operators greater abilities to reach guests. JCM will also showcase the ICB Intelligent Cash Box system and PromoNet systems. JCM’s printers, including the Gen5 Thermal Printer and CouponXpress, are also designed to have operators communicate directly with customers at the EGM, table game and kiosk, and players club will also be available for visistors to see at G2E. JCM’s partnership with CountR and our secure TITA system will also be on show at the expo. The partnership aims to enable high-speed cash processing, TITO transactions and debit/POS transactions to live table games, giving players more options to play their favorite games.

BOOSTING SECURITY JCM’s bill validators are used globally, working as a first line of defense against counterfeiters and cheats, and at G2E, JCM will display this technology, centering on the iVizion, a product that we hope will set new standards for sensing technology and lead to unmatched industry performance. JCM’s Fuzion technology connected to the iVizion boosts 46 GAMINGAMERICA

security with real-time digital imaging, increased surveillance capabilities, better management of support resources and financial asset tracking, and trusted NFC technology for secure contactless transactions.

INCREASING EFFICIENCIES The results of JCM’s latest partnership with cash processing solutions (CPS) can also be found at our booth this year. The aim of the partnership was to dramatically increase efficiencies in the count room with flexible and modular count-sort solutions, including the 7000i, X Range, and V Series and ECM enterprise-wide cash management software.

"JCM’S BILL VALIDATORS WORK AS A FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE AGAINST CHEATS." Finally, JCM’s new ICB ASAP is an exciting technological advancement for the count room just like when JCM first introduced its ICB more than a decade ago. A network of four industrial-grade robots and industry-standard automation devices, ICB ASAP streamlines the count room, enhances productivity, reduces human contact, boosts security, improves throughput and increases reliability.



GARY PLATT

TAKE A SEAT AT G2E Founded in 1996, Gary Platt produces high-end seating for casino patrons with the aim to increase the time players spend at their favorite games. Relocated from Southern California to Reno, Nevada, in 1999, Gary Platt produces seating exclusively for casinos, including slots, table games, poker, bar-top, sportsbook and bingo. The company operates globally, supplying IGT, Bally's, Aristocrat, WMS, Multimedia, Aruze and Konami with seating for all of their participation games. Recently, the company launched an exlcusive product with Las Vegas’ newest casino, Resorts World Las Vegas. Anywhere and everywhere a guest may go on property – the casino, hospitality areas or their guest room office space – Gary Platt Manufacturing has seating solutions that make guests more comfortable and want to stay and play longer. At G2E, Gary Platt will showcase new and classic models, each of which is hand-crafted to perfection by Gary Platt’s teams of artisans. Leading the way is the all-new Gary Platt Collection for Resorts World. Designed for Las Vegas’ newest resort, the modern pieces in the Resorts World Collection are now available to casinos everywhere, and each model is completely customizable to reflect each individual property’s unique brand.

"GARY PLATT’S G2E EXPERIENCE INCLUDES AN EXHIBIT DEDICATED TO THEIR NEW LINE FOR HOSPITALITY SEATING. " First in the collection is the Aurora, a cutting-edge model that ushers in the dawn of a new age in comfort and design. Its ingenious design features a player-adjustable pedestal base, round footrest, rear seat vent and a quick-change seat. The Aurora’s deliberately modest arms gently surround players, and the chair back is covered in custom-designed upholstery. The new Dakota, Ezra and Zephyr models are also included in Gary Platt’s Collection for Resorts World. The Dakota model features a player-adjustable pedestal base, Gary Platt’s signature 48 GAMINGAMERICA

Epic footrest and a quick-change seat. Next, the Ezra model features an extended arm, round tapered legs made from authentic wood, gold stretchers and sabots, and quick-change seat. And the Zephyr model, designed especially for Baccarat players, features subtle ergonomics that comfortably position the player to naturally lean forward. Sportsbook fans will relax in the comfort of Gary Platt’s Sportsbook Club model with modern amenities including USB ports and electrical outlets that give Resorts World customers the technology difference they expect. Overall, Gary Platt’s expanded G2E experience includes an entire exhibit dedicated solely to their new and expansive line for hospitality seating. The Sierra Nevada Hospitality line includes the new Forum model, which was initially created for Caesars Forum. The Sierra Nevada Hospitality line features more than 100 different chairs for a wide variety of needs across the operation, including bars, dining and banquet/convention spaces. Also on display is Gary Platt’s new Maximus office-style chair. Specifically designed for larger users, the Maximus is BIFMA x 5.11 certified for large occupant seating and passes BIFMA testing up to 500 pounds.



GAMING LABORATORIES INTERNATIONAL

ALL ABOUT COMPLIANCE Gaming America caught up with James Maida, president at Gaming Laboratories International, to preview its G2E offering. GLI focuses on compliance, specifically in the land-based, igaming, lottery and cybersecurity verticals, in the hope of aiding suppliers, operators and regulators globally. to help them achieve their goals no matter how big or small the challenge. We aim to be the first call every time and committed to clients’ successes from beginning to end and every stage in between. GLI’s global expert team of advisors is here to serve its clients during every stage of the gaming and regulatory process. Additionally, with many jurisdictions requiring responsible gaming, due diligence and other compliance-related issues such as recertification, ongoing auditing and AML compliance, GLI offers robust solutions to help its clients maintain and understand ongoing compliance obligations.

JAMES MAIDA

Compliance is the heart of what Gaming Laboratories International does for suppliers, regulators and operators all over the world. In more than 480 jurisdictions, suppliers, regulators and operators turn to GLI for help in overcoming their compliance challenges in the areas of land-based gaming, igaming, lottery and cybersecurity. This will be the focus of our show at this year’s G2E. GLI’s compliance offerings consist of four overarching categories that help clients wherever they are on their journey: regulatory compliance, technical compliance, end-to-end testing, and full lifecycle compliance. Its cybersecurity services also protect operators, regulators and suppliers across each compliance category. GLI advises on many different parts of the compliance journey for existing and emerging jurisdictions regarding both existing and emerging technologies. Regardless of when and where in the world those projects might happen, or if GLI’s clients need one thing or many, their needs are intertwined, and GLI is the best partner for all of those integrated needs. The company helps clients leverage its decades of experience 50 GAMINGAMERICA

"GLI OFFERS ROBUST SOLUTIONS TO HELP CLIENTS MAINTAIN ONGOING COMPLIANCE OBLIGATIONS." The GLI global team is always preparing for what’s next, with experts on the ground around the world, in terms of technology and cybersecurity. No matter the market or geography, GLI provides intelligent insights needed to help its clients get where they want and need to be. Throughout the process, GLI helps mitigate risk, enabling clients to stay focused on the future. To meet continually increasing demand, we recently boosted staffing levels in labs, adding more than 100 team members overall. So GLI is better equipped than any other lab to meet the challenge – from pre-compliance to market launch, sports betting to igaming – anywhere in the world. Overall we hope our igaming, sports betting and cybersecurity experts can guide you through the evolving gaming landscape. Our experts monitor new technologies, legislation and jurisdictions to give you insights.



KONAMI

NEW ARRIVALS Gaming America heard from Konami and its executive vice president and COO, Tom Jingoli, on its extensive G2E showing, ranging from new cashless solutions to slots centering on fighting robots. With a competitive lineup of premium slot entertainment, core game releases and casino systems technology at the Konami Booth at G2E this October, the global gaming provider is showcasing a number of options for casino players, properties and teams. Konami’s showing includes the popular Dimension 49 portrait cabinet, Dimension 27 stacked screen cabinet, a newly developed format, Synkros cardless enhancements, cashless table game technology, and more will debut for the first time at G2E 2021.

SOME WORDS FROM THE PRESIDENT From expanded Synkros contactless technology to new Dimension premium formats, we are adding even greater value to what is proven successful in the space. Konami is delivering winning developments to the casino floor in the immediate months and years ahead, in an effort to achieve meaningful gains for operators and continuous advancement for our industry as a whole. Three new Dimension cabinets are arriving at G2E Las Vegas for the first time, all of which include the same silver finish, relaxed slant top, dual spin buttons, dual cupholders and wired and wireless phone chargers featured in the original Dimension 49J. Ranked the industry’s highest indexing portrait cabinet for four consecutive months, Dimension 49 is a for-sale, flat-screen version of the J-curve machine and it is featured at G2E 2021 with new brand extensions on Konami’s series like Treasure Ball. Next, our new Dimension 27 with three, stacked 27-inch screens is also making its G2E premiere with original linked series such as Panda Power. 52 GAMINGAMERICA

Additionally, we will unveil a new premium cabinet format, with its own unique content library. Bull Blitz, a new product for the US market, will also be shown at the Global Gaming Expo, following its launch in Australia. Furthermore, the slot game BattleBots based on the robot fighting franchise will also be featured in Konami’s booth. Last G2E, Dimension 49J was voted one of the industry’s most anticipated new cabinets. The machine has clearly delivered on the excitement with hit games like All Aboard and Ocean Spin, and now we’re taking it even further with BattleBots, Bull Blitz, Lucky Envelope, and more. On top of our new products our Synkros casino management system team is hosting live demonstrations, showing new tools and features aimed at a more cashless, cardless and convenient player experience. New and current Synkros customers have access to a number of new releases such as new table games, cashless wagering, login by phone number, built-in VIP host and multi-site exclusion management. They can also tap through our newest mobile technology for its Konetic employee mobile app. For years, our Synkros cashless technology has proven success in locations around the globe, and it continues to grow and advance in some of the world’s most competitive gaming markets. That combined with an array of other operator-configurable player conveniences are empowering Synkros customers to exceed expectations in truly exciting ways.



ARISTOCRAT

AN ARISTOCRATIC SHOWING Aristocrat will have a broad range of products on show at G2E that will have to be seen to be believed. Aristocrat will show an array of new games at G2E, including next-generation evolutions of proven game families such as Mighty Cash Ultra 88, and Gold Stacks 88 and new products like Jackpot Catcher, Triple Supreme, and Wild Fireball Rumble. Aristocrat will also show new developments to player-favorite brands such as Mighty Cash, Buffalo, Gold Stacks 88, Baby Choy, Mr. Cashman, Make That Cash and more. Players have come to enjoy our RELM product and new RELM 5-Reel, and Aristocrat is expanding the game library with new games like 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 WildWild, Jackpot Hits, and Wheel Max. Buffalo Link will be a focal point at G2E too, standing among other recently released player favorites including Wild Wild Buffalo and Timber Wolf Diamond. 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 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. For specialty markets, Aristocrat will debut a new line of 54 GAMINGAMERICA

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 solutions aim to drive and enhance the guest experience, and the company will show dozens of cutting-edge and innovative CX solutions, including solutions for contactless and cashless gaming, such as Aristocrat’s Digital Wallet, a fast and simple way players can fund their entertainment experience online or on an app. We'll also feature Aristocrat’s PlayerMax loyalty app, which links guests to their account status and allows for fun interactive brand features like gamification and in-app notifications. There will also be the Oasis Loyalty Kiosk, an all-in-one solution that combines card re-printing with promotional tools, as well as Tickets at the Table, which gives guests a seamless slot-to-table experience. 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. There's also 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 will appreciate the One Link solution with advanced technologies for progressive management, bonusing and media management, and then there's Aristocrat’s nVision, a business intelligence tool that empowers operators to better use data with interactive dashboards and customized reporting.



MONIKO

TICKET TO RIDE Moniko is a leader in TITO ticket production for slot machines. Upholding the highest standards of paper quality and customer satisfaction, the company will be a high-profile fixture at this year’s G2E. Moniko is the first and only approved company in Europe for producing TITO tickets for slot machines. We’re a global supplier that can satisfy the high standards imposed by the modern way of production. Keeping up with the latest technology and following the innovations, our tickets are being used in more than 60 countries around the world. One of the most impressive characteristics of our TITO tickets include that they’re produced on Kanzan KL 69 paper, manufactured in Germany, and fully produced according to the strict IGT standards and leading world printer producers. We also have a short production period of no more than seven days from a signed order. Tickets can also be blank or personalized with a logo, picture or another design up to seven colors, and each pack of tickets is shrink wrapped in order to keep them safe from dust, humidity and in-transit mishaps. For casinos in Europe, for example, the transport distance is naturally much shorter than sourcing them from the United States since the peper is sourced from Germany. This saves time, money and also reduces the carbon footprint. The quality of Moniko tickets speaks for itself. Regarding the paper again, Moniko takes great pride in using Kanzan KL 69 paper, approved by JCM, Transact & Nanoptix, so that it can provide future-proofing, environmentally friendly 56 GAMINGAMERICA

thermopaper. This paper is also free from phenol, which the EU has recognized as a hazardous substance prone to causing skin damage, and the EU passed a regulation in December 2017 to ban phenol from thermopaper from 2020. So Moniko’s paper and its thermal coating are certified and used by the major printing system producers, which are found in slot machines from IGT, Bally’s, Apex and Novomatic, for instance. Regarding security, we use fluorescent or transparent ink visible under UV light and we use many other security features like optical variable ink (OVI). All our tickets are produced according to the strict IGT standards and recommendations as well. This means also that all tickets are printed with the Moniko name and the IGT short abbreviation KN1 for the paper quality KL 69 on the front side of the ticket. Therefore, all Moniko tickets can be identified easily. The best quality also affords the ability to have no curling of the tickets in the printer, exact top-of-form marks by IGT standards and electronically controlled ticket burst always within IGT standards as well. Moniko not only manufactures TITO tickets, but customers can source their casino entry tickets from Moniko through Spirit Gaming.



CHIPCO

BLUE CHIP CHIP With its longstanding reputation and dedication to providing the best in the market, Chipco will be on hand at G2E to showcase its best-in-class casino chips and solutions that keep them looking new for years. With its more than 30 years of experience, Chipco is an industry leader in manufacturing ceramic chips and custom poker chips for casinos, poker rooms and the specialty or promotional industry. Having the ability to control each step of the process is critical to achieving the world’s best chip. By utilizing state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment, materials and the latest technologies, Chipco provides custom poker chips that are precise, secure and the highest quality in the market today. And our new ceramic chip formulation is extremely durable and impact resistant. Chipco’s research and development, machining, tooling, injection molding and production are all done at our facilities in the US. Competitors’ chips made in Mexico and China are often counterfeited and put into play and can go undetected for extended periods of time. Our casino chips are the only gaming chips thatare 100% made in the USA, putting security at the forefront of our mission. This provides expedient shipping to casinos in North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Africa. Through a network of licensed partners and distributors, Chipco casino chips can be seen on tables around the world including Borgata’s Poker Room in New Jersey, World Poker Tour (WPT) and many more, and we have the capacity and financial strength to handle large orders, whether it’s 500 or several million. A large poker chip set can be a big investment, and depending on the level of handling and other environmental factors, owners can quickly find that investment at risk. For a fraction of the cost to replace chips, ChipShield can greatly extend their longevity. This incredibly durable coating also enhances the appearance of your chips by adding vibrancy and depth to printed graphics and reducing texture glare. ChipShield also resists scratches, and testing indicates approximately 10 times the wear resistance. ChipShield not only helps protect the life of your chips, but the anti-microbial coating helps protect players, owners and staff. Additionally this eco-friendly, invisible coat makes chips easier to clean and maintain on a busy casino floor. SonicCasino cleans and sanitizes your chips using the gentle 58 GAMINGAMERICA

but thorough process of ultrasonics and warm water. Ultrasonics aid in removing dirt, oils and pathogens using a physical rather than chemical process. This eliminates the need for harsh chemicals and detergents that can damage chips. Ultrasonic cleaning is a highly efficient means to rapidly remove dirt and oils from a variety of materials, such as clay, ceramics and plastics. Microscopic bubbles produced by the ultrasonic process act to rapidly scrub away oils and dirt from the tiniest crevice, leaving your chips clean, smooth and odor free. Security challenges are escalating, and Chipco offers a range of security features to meet the need such as invisible UV markings, custom chip molds, micro-etch secure markings, aligned edges and serial numbers, defending your investment and making counterfeit attempts impractical. As always, our ceramic gaming chips feature fully customized, high-quality graphics printed edge to edge and embedded directly and permanently into the chip substrate.


SMARTSOFT

NEVER LOSE A PLAYER AGAIN There’s no substitute for accuracy, especially with the sheer amount of data and revenue on the line for casinos. SmartSoft is the go-to name in address data quality and will be an integral part of G2E. Accurate player address data is vital to your success. Significant resources are spent acquiring, retaining and servicing your customers, and the quality of your data plays a critical role in how well these functions are performed. According to the USPS, every year there are over 47 million change-of-addresses filed by individuals, families and businesses, as well as the creation of almost two million new addresses. Add in keystroke errors and omissions in new addresses collected daily and it’s easy to see how your address data deteriorates quickly over time. Casinos with poor control over address quality often face critical issues that affect their bottom line, both directly in light of increased costs, as well as indirectly in terms of the impact on service and reputation. Best practices for managing your player data should involve an address quality program, for both existing data and at the point of entry for new data. For over 20 years, SmartSoftDQ has been the leading provider of desktop and enterprise-level solutions for address data quality

"CASINOS WITH POOR CONTROL OVER ADDRESS QUALITY OFTEN FACE CRITICAL ISSUES THAT AFFECT THEIR BOTTOM LINE." for the United States and Canada. With SmartSoftDQ, your addresses are standardized and ZIP+4 appended, guaranteeing higher delivery rates and a greater ROI on your marketing spend. Plus, integration into your existing casino management system is available. GAMINGAMERICA 59


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