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The Saga Continues: PA Skill Game Producer Maintains that Skill Games Are Not Directly Competing with Casino Games
July 1st, 20245 mins

The Saga Continues: PA Skill Game Producer Maintains that Skill Games Are Not Directly Competing with Casino Games

Game developer Pace-O-Matic is adamant, stressing that its Pennsylvania Skill games, found across the state in multiple bars, gas stations, and convenience stores, are not the same as slot machines. The debate rages on, as casino operators and POM face each other head on.

The firm that develops Pennsylvania Skill games, those slot-like machine games often seen in restaurants, convenience stores, bars, retail shopping areas, groceries, and gas stations, insists its games do not compete with slot machines found in casinos.

The state's commercial gaming sector, comprising 17 on-site casinos, retail, fantasy sports, online video gaming, and sports betting terminals, reported a gross gaming revenue of almost $521 million in the month of May alone. Pace-O-Matic, the software company responsible for building and designing the operating system of Pennsylvania Skill games, has just shared a press release that praised and congratulated the casinos while backing up its many Skill games.

"These numbers show that there is room in the state for both casinos and small businesses that operate skill games to be successful. There is no competition between the two," declared Mike Barley, a POM spokesperson.

Pennsylvania Skill Games: legal controversy and economic impact

But the legality of Pennsylvania Skill games is poised for review by the Supreme Court of the state. Michelle Henry, the State Attorney General, is challenging lower court rulings that have declared the games legal due to their skill-based elements, arguing they should be classed as "illegal gambling machines" under the Gaming Act of the state.

Mike Barley reiterates that these games do not compete with casino slot machines. He adds that there is room in PA for both small businesses that have these skill games and casinos; a view that is not shared by the casino industry. For instance, representatives from Parx, Pennsylvania’s highest-grossing casino, recently announced a halt on their $100 million project until the legal status of skill games is resolved. In the meantime, Parx is purchasing a smaller nearby hotel to accommodate its guests.

Barley criticizes the casino industry's stance, accusing them of greed. "Sadly, $521 million a month is not enough to satisfy the greedy casino industry," he emphasized, adding that they want to kill small businesses, Moose Lodges, volunteer fire companies, American Legions, and other places that rely on the small income they acquire from skill games.

Regulatory and taxation challenges in the Keystone State

Currently, skill games operate without regulation and are not taxed. But POM and other proponents of skill games have called on lawmakers to establish a regulatory framework for these machines. Right now, the revenue from skill games is divided among the game developer, host businesses, route distributors, and manufacturers.

Proposed legislation in Harrisburg, which has stalled due to the ongoing legal dispute, suggested a 16% tax on the gross revenue from skill games. However, Governor Josh Shapiro has recommended a significantly higher rate of 42%.

Barley argues that a lower tax rate is essential for the sustainability of skill games, which provide crucial financial support to small businesses struggling with inflation. He adds that these business locations could not afford to "pay the same tax rate that wealthy casinos pay." Casinos, in contrast, know this, but they "simply don't care."

The legality of PA's skill games

Last November, the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania collectively upheld a ruling of the lower court that skill games do not qualify as gambling games. The court ruled that for a game to be classified as gambling, chance must be the predominant factor in determining its outcome. County Judge Andrew Dowling even stated that machines involving a large element of chance are not enough for the machine to be categorized as a gambling device. Despite this ruling, Attorney General Henry is urging the state Supreme Court to reevaluate the classification of skill games as illegal gambling machines.

The resolution of this legal dispute carries significant consequences for both Pennsylvania's casino industry and the numerous small businesses that depend on skill games for additional revenue. If the Attorney General's appeal is successful, skill games could be classed as illegal gambling devices, potentially eliminating an important income source for many establishments. Conversely, if the lower court rulings are upheld, it could lead to the expansion of skill games across the state, further entrenching their presence in Pennsylvania's gaming ecosystem.

This ongoing debate over the classification and regulation of skill games underscores the broader challenge of balancing economic interests with regulatory requirements in the ever-changing gaming industry. As the state Supreme Court prepares to review the case, stakeholders on both sides are keenly awaiting a decision that will significantly influence the future of gaming in Pennsylvania.


Popular Siberian Storm MegaJackpot in Caesars Palace Casino Michigan Now Exceeds $500,000
July 1st, 20244 mins

Popular Siberian Storm MegaJackpot in Caesars Palace Casino Michigan Now Exceeds $500,000

Caesars Palace, the renowned casino operator, recently made an exciting announcement on its X social media platform: the progressive mega jackpot for the popular slot game Siberian Storm has now soared to an impressive $509,000 in its Michigan lobby. This thrilling development has captured the attention of both local gamblers in the MI scene and slot enthusiasts from outside the state alike.

Siberian Storm, a MultiWay Xtra slot developed by the well-known software giant IGT, is celebrated for its unique 3x4x5x4x3 layout, offering players an incredible 720 winning ways. The slot also features a striking Siberian white tiger as its main protagonist, along with visuals that boast crisp graphics and an enchanting soundtrack that enhances the full gaming experience.

In fact, the slot has become one of the most beloved offerings in IGT's portfolio primarily due to its substantial payouts and state-of-the-art features. Siberian Storm is available in land-based and online casinos across Michigan, ensuring that a wide range of players can try their luck at winning the massive jackpot.

How can you win the massive jackpot at Siberian Storm?

Players have two chances to win the progressive mega jackpot on Siberian Storm. The first approach involves landing five "MegaJackpots Scatters" someplace on the reels, which includes the free spins round. If, however, the jackpot is not triggered in a single spin, the game offers an automatic "Second Chance" determination, providing another occasion to hit the jackpot. And there's more: the higher the bet, the greater the chance of winning, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game. Despite its relatively low RTP of 93%, the slot's medium volatility keeps players coming back for more.

Caesars all set to launch a new app in 2024

Meanwhile, Caesars Entertainment, which operates two online casinos in MI, has ambitious plans for the future. While its OG platform is integrated into Caesars Sportsbook & Casino, in 2023, the company launched a separate app called Caesars Palace Online Casino. But by 2024’s end, Caesars plans to introduce another casino app, expanding its presence in the state's growing iGaming market.

The speculation surrounding the launch of the new platform was just confirmed when Caesars officially announced that its acquisition of WynnBet's MI online platform is now complete. The existing WynnBet brand will remain active until the latter part of 2024, after which a whole new brand will be disclosed, pending state-related approvals.

The acquisition, first revealed in February, includes the WynnBet sportsbook and online casino license. Caesars currently runs ten casino brands, any of which could become the next new online casino in the Great Lakes state, adding to the anticipation and excitement among players.

Caesars: bringing stability to the Wolverine State

In Michigan, Caesars Palace places 5th among casinos in terms of generated revenue, a position it has maintained since entering the Wolverine State's iGaming market four years ago. With the recent acquisition of WynnBet, Caesars' market position is expected to strengthen even further.

When combined with the revenue from Caesars Sportsbook & Casino, the $11.8 million from Caesars Palace's and the $2.6 million from WynnBet place Caesars as the fourth-best iGaming brand in Michigan. The company's proactive efforts to improve its market standing include launching a new online casino app and brand, offering competitive promotions, and expanding its slot inventory in the Great Lakes.

Caesars Palace's announcement about the progressive mega jackpot for Siberian Storm and its plans for future expansions demonstrate the company's commitment to providing thrilling gaming experiences and maintaining its position as a leading operator in Michigan. As the anticipation builds for the new casino app launch and the potential for life-changing wins on Siberian Storm continues to grow, Michigan's iGaming market remains a dynamic and exciting landscape for players and operators alike.


Supreme Court in PA to Decide Once and for All Whether Skill Games Qualify as Gambling
June 28th, 20245 mins

Supreme Court in PA to Decide Once and for All Whether Skill Games Qualify as Gambling

Can skill games be classified as gambling? This is what the Pennsylvania supreme court will debate and decide on, as distributors await its verdict with bated breath.

The fate of so-called skill games in Pennsylvania is poised to be determined by the state's highest court. As the debate over these games intensifies, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court is set to provide a definitive ruling, which could pave the way for their regulation and taxation, just like other casino games. This decision comes as online casinos in the Keystone State push for equal regulation and taxation, while public opinion and lawmakers remain deeply divided.

The impending decision by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court is expected to be a landmark ruling, one that will realistically clarify the legal status of skill games and allow lawmakers to craft appropriate regulations. At the moment, skill games are ubiquitous in Pennsylvania, as they are found in gas stations, corner stores, and bars. In fact, the American Gaming Association estimates that there are around 67,000 skill games distributed throughout the state.

It's worth noting that Philadelphia is the only city that has taken the drastic step of banning these skill games completely, a move that has led to a lawsuit from the well-known distributor of such games in PA, Pace-O-Matic. The court will need to determine if the games should be categorized as gambling machines, particularly given the "so-called skill element that is almost entirely hidden from view and is almost impossible to complete," as released in a statement by Michelle Henry, the Attorney General. At the same time, the court will define what exactly constitutes a slot machine.

The impact of the Supreme Court's decision

If the Pennsylvania Supreme Court rules that skill games are a form of gambling, it will contradict a November 2023 ruling by the Commonwealth Court, which stated that the "element of skill" involved in these games prevents them from being classified as gambling. This previous ruling has been a cornerstone for the argument that skill games should be regulated differently from traditional gambling machines.

Online casinos in Pennsylvania have long been vocal about their desire for skill games to be taxed and regulated, similar to other casino games. They argue that the current ambiguity gives skill games an unfair advantage, as they are not subject to the same stringent regulations and taxes as traditional casino offerings. This discrepancy, they further contend, creates an uneven playing field in the state's gaming industry.

Public and legislative opinions count

The debate over skill games has seen a wide array of opinions from the public as well as legislators in Pennsylvania. Some view these games as a harmless form of entertainment that provides small businesses with an additional revenue stream. In contrast, others see them as a form of unregulated gambling that preys on vulnerable populations and skirts the regulatory framework designed to protect consumers.

Lawmakers in the Keystone State have struggled to reach a consensus on how to handle the proliferation of skill games. Some advocate for stricter regulations and taxation, similar to other forms of gambling, while others believe these games should be left alone, given their purported skill component.

The potential consequences of the ruling

Whether we are for or against it, the Supreme Court's decision will have significant implications for the future of skill games in Pennsylvania. A ruling that categorizes them as gambling could lead to more stringent regulations, increased taxes, and potentially a reduction in their prevalence across the state. But at the same time, this would align skill games more closely with traditional casino games and could generate additional revenue for the state through taxes.

On the other hand, if the court upholds the Commonwealth Court's ruling, skill games will likely continue to operate under the current ambiguous regulatory environment. This outcome could perpetuate the existing tensions between traditional casino operators and skill game distributors.

As Pennsylvania awaits the Supreme Court's decision, the outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of the gaming industry in the Keystone State. Whether skill games will be regulated and taxed as gambling machines or continue to operate in their current form remains to be seen, but the court's ruling will be a pivotal moment in this ongoing saga.


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More New Slots Now on Offer at BetMGM Online’s New Jersey Casino
June 25th, 20244 mins

More New Slots Now on Offer at BetMGM Online’s New Jersey Casino

If you think there are too many slot machines in New Jersey, you might be right – but apparently, BetMGM doesn’t think so. For those who are planning to visit BetMGM Casino in New Jersey anytime soon, you just might like their new offerings – the latest slot games based on hit movies and TV shows such as Cheers and Ace Ventura.

BetMGM online casino in New Jersey has just expanded its gaming repertoire with exciting new slots inspired by hit movies and television shows. Following their successful debut in the BetMGM online counterpart in Michigan, these new offerings include slots based on well-loved classics such as "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective" and "Cheers," thanks to a strategic partnership with Atlantic Digital.

“BetMGM is a destination for the most recognizable movie and TV shows-turned slot games,” stated Oliver Bartlett, BetMGM’s vice president of gaming product and content. He added that they have taken popular content from movies and television shows and have reimagined them specifically for iGaming, and it’s “a great way players can experience them in a different and exciting way. Our partnership with Atlantic Digital has added an element of exclusivity and entertainment to our already expansive library of games,” Bartlett added.

The brand-new and exciting Ace Ventura slot: nostalgic 90’s fun

The new Ace Ventura slot game brings a wave of nostalgia, especially for Gen X and millennial players who grew up enjoying Jim Carrey's comedic genius. In this 5-by-3 slot with 20 lines, players can join Ace Ventura in his quest to find Snowflake (the missing dolphin in the movie). The game features four jackpots, bonus spins, respins, symbols, and multiplier wilds that fans will recognize immediately, such as the Ace Ventura business card, footballs, Ray Finkle’s jerseys, Carrey's own likeness, and, of course, Snowflake.

Adding to the immersive experience, when a player spins and loses, Carrey’s iconic line, "Loser," is heard, mimicking his dramatic delivery from the movie. This playful feature is designed to delight anyone familiar with the film.

The equally evocative Cheers Slot: throwback to the 80s!

Equally captivating is the Cheers slot game, a 3-by-3 slot comprising 17 lines. It showcases beloved characters from the show, including Sam Malone and Norm Peterson, providing players with a chance to reminisce while spinning the reels. The slot game is even adorned with animations and the classic theme tunes, bringing the Cheers bar atmosphere to life.

CEO Sam Hobcraft of Atlantic Digital expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, saying, “We are delighted to work with these iconic brands - Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, Cheers, and BetMGM. We have built two unique games that really show off the brands to their fullest extent, from classic theme tunes to animations showcasing all the characters. It is a pleasure partnering with BetMGM to launch these branded games and add a new dimension to their product offering.”

A growing library of iconic slots

These latest additions to BetMGM's online casino NJ come on the heels of other popular titles, including The Godfather slot, which was also developed through their partnership with Atlantic Digital. Other TV and movie-inspired slots in their library include Charlie’s Angels and Star Trek, with promises of more to come.

Ever since NJDGE (the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement) began distributing revenue figures for different casinos in January of 2024, BetMGM has produced over $110 million, placing it third in the state, trailing only DraftKings and FanDuel.

As BetMGM continues to expand its selection of themed slot games, players are left wondering what iconic TV show or movie adaptation will come next. With the success of their current offerings and their strong partnership with Atlantic Digital, the possibilities are endlessly vast and exciting. For now, though, fans can enjoy spinning the reels with Ace Ventura, Sam Malone, and other iconic characters, experiencing their favorite shows and movies in an electrifying new way.


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