Playgon, a gaming content provider based in Canada, was warned by the Nevada Gaming Control Board about its live game content from a studio in Las Vegas, as it turns out that Playgon hasn't been issued with a license by the board. Its live game shows, therefore, constitute a violation - and with a cease-and-desist order from the NGCB, we have yet to see what happens next.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board has issued a stern warning to Playgon Interactive, Inc. and its affiliate, Bitrate Productions, mandating the cessation of live gaming show productions from Las Vegas or any other location within Clark County. The directive came through a cease-and-desist order, as disclosed by the NGCB on Thursday, and failure to comply with the order could result in significant legal repercussions for the companies involved.

Currently, Playgon, through Bitrate, operates a studio in Las Vegas where live dealers host games such as baccarat and roulette. These gaming sessions are broadcast to online casinos worldwide. However, the NGCB states that these dealers lack the appropriate Nevada licenses, rendering the operation illegal under state law.

In a formal statement, the NGCB described the programming as a "criminal violation" of the current Nevada Gaming Control Act. The board's chairman, Kirk Hendrick, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, "The NGCB will take all necessary actions to enforce Nevada's gaming laws and regulations." Hendrick also warned that if the cease-and-desist order is ignored, the board would pursue civil or even criminal litigation against Playgon and Bitrate.

Compliance deadline looms

The deadline for Playgon and Bitrate to comply with the NGCB order was set at 5 pm PT on July 26, Friday, as detailed in a letter dated July 18 from the board. To continue producing and broadcasting gambling shows legally, Bitrate would require a license from the Nevada Gaming Commission.

In 2016, Playgon's attorneys argued that Bitrate would not need a license from the NGC because the programming was intended only for "entertainment purposes." However, the NGCB's recent statement indicates that Bitrate's activities have since expanded beyond social gaming, necessitating the proper license.

Playgon Interactive, headquartered in Vancouver, is a Software as a Service (SaaS) technology company specializing in the development and licensing of digital iGaming content. That said, its platform features e-table and live dealer casino games along with daily fantasy sports, catering to a diverse clientele including online and land-based casino operators, sportsbooks, database firms, and media groups.

Prominently, Playgon touts itself as "The FIRST and ONLY Live Dealer Casino, streaming live from the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas!" on its website. The company claims to elevate live dealer casino games to new heights, offering advanced functionality and handheld features tailored for the "mobile generation of gaming enthusiasts who demand a world-class gaming experience on all devices."

Awaiting company response

Attempts to reach Playgon for immediate comment were made, but the company has yet to provide a statement regarding the NGCB's order and the subsequent threat of legal action.

As the deadline approaches, the gaming industry watches closely to see how Playgon and Bitrate will respond to the NGCB's directive. The outcome could definitely set a significant precedent for how gaming regulations are enforced in Nevada, particularly concerning live dealer operations and the use of unlicensed personnel in the industry.

For now, the spotlight remains on Playgon Interactive and Bitrate Productions as they navigate this critical juncture, with potential implications for their business operations and the broader iGaming landscape. The NGCB's decisive action shows the importance of regulatory compliance in maintaining the integrity of Nevada's gaming industry.