Aristocrat fires back at IGT

Monday, Dec. 31, 2001 | 11 a.m.

Aristocrat Technologies Inc. on Friday responded to a patent infringement lawsuit filed by International Game Technology, branding it an attempt by IGT to quash competition through legal channels.

"This is yet another example of an attempt by IGT to use the legal system with a frivolous lawsuit to prevent a competitor from coming to market with new and innovative products," Aristocrat President Mark Newburg said in a statement. "(The lawsuit) is a detriment to operators in our industry and is an insult to the concept of open competition and free enterprise, with the best products and services to be determined only by the acceptability in the marketplace."

The lawsuit revolves around Casino Data Systems, a Las Vegas-based company acquired by Aristocrat in June for $181 million. IGT claims a predecessor company of Casino Data transferred confidential technology information to Casino Data without IGT's consent after the Aristocrat takeover. IGT is seeking a court order banning Aristocrat from selling gaming products that use the disputed technology, including a coinless slot system called "Quickets," a progressive jackpot system called "Hyperlink," and "Oasis," a casino management system.

IGT is also demanding the recall of all systems already sold by Aristocrat that use the disputed technology.

Newburg called the claims "groundless and without merit."

"Aristocrat always has in the past, and will continue in the future, to honor all legitimate patent claims," Newburg said. "This action does not fall in that category."

IGT is by far the largest manufacturer of slot machines in North America, with a market share estimated at more than 70 percent. Aristocrat is a subsidiary of Australian slot manufacturer Aristocrat Leisure Ltd., one of the largest suppliers of slot machines in the international casino market.