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StumbleExecutives outline future of server-based gaming
Wednesday, May 26, 2010 | 1:50 a.m.
Enlargeable graphic: A look at server-based slot machines
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- G2E trots out server-based games (yawn), and little new content (11-27-09)
- Slot makers pull together (4-29-2008)
- Don’t worry: Your slot bets are still safe (2-17-08)
Server-based gaming has been the most talked about technology among gaming manufacturers in recent years, but the technology will be a gradual change for both customers and operators, slot tech executives said Tuesday at the Gaming Tech Summit at Green Valley Ranch.
Server-based gaming allows casinos to have slots connected through a network. It lets operators change themes, promotions, the amount that can be wagered and the hold at a touch of a few keystrokes.
CityCenter’s Aria paved the way for deploying server-based gaming in newly built casinos. Almost half of the Aria casino floor is server-based, totaling about 900 games from manufacturers International Game Technology and WMS Gaming. The floor will have 100 percent server-based gaming by the summer as more manufacturers receive regulatory approval on their games.
While executives say Aria represents the future of server-based gaming, it isn’t realistic for all operators. Wiring an existing casino floor to accommodate the technology is an expensive proposition for casinos hard-pressed for cash in today’s economy.
“It comes down to us being flexible manufacturers. Let’s build it on your terms,” said Mark Pace, WMS vice president of network gaming.
Pace said WMS realized existing properties weren’t going to be redoing their entire casino floor with server-based gaming as the company initially expected. WMS realized managers were going to need to justify the expense with revenue, so they began to roll out the technology slot-by-slot at existing properties.
Pace said casinos need their floors to be 20 percent server-based to see usable player feedback and results.
Monte Carlo has been a test for the technology in the Las Vegas market to show MGM Mirage how server-based gaming would work next door at Aria. IGT Vice President of Network Systems Javier Saenz said the casino’s floor has about 200 games from the major slot manufacturers.
Executives say one of the perks of server-based gaming is it attracts younger customers who are looking for more stimulation on the casino floor. Some server-based games allow users to play up to four games at a time, which is becoming increasingly popular among customers already familiar with using several mobile devices at the same time.
“If I can win three games simultaneously, that is better than winning one,” Saenz said.
Executives said regulators, operators and most importantly, customers, need to be comfortable with the technology. When introducing new technology, it is important not to greatly change games customers already are loyal to, said Bally Technologies Vice President of Strategic Development Walt Eisele.
“The revenue still comes from the machine so you don’t want to mess with that too much,” he said.
The next step will be training third-party developers to make applications for server-based games, executives said. The technology would be similar to how third-party applications work on the iPhone. Saenz said IGT will have a booth at this year’s Global Gaming Expo devoted to helping developers create such applications.
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Server Based Slot Machines are a RIP-OFF Do NOT play these machines. The odds and payout schedules can be changed anytime a machine sits idle for more than three minutes. These are the beginning of the end of fair gambling!!!
I don't care what any gaming executive says. Ask anyone that plays slot machines and you will hear from 99.9% of them that when ticket in/ ticket out gaming was introduced, the slots got tighter. Resist any effort on the newer models as casinos are getting more desparate to increase gaming win with fewer players. Casinos have fewer players because players have more venues in which to play. Patronize the casinos that still have coin in slots to force their hand.
All designed to save more money and eliminate more employees and pay the big boss more money and bigger bonus. I would be willing to bet the only time the MGM bosses are in the casino is when they parade through with high profile guests. It is a shame that casino bosses no longer are people with any casino experience but with experience on how to screw the staff, the banks, the subcontractors, the patrons and anybody else they can financially strategize on deceiving. Its amazing that the gaming regulators are allowing this stuff to go on.
i'll never play "electronic blackjack".
i like the physical cards, i like tipping my dealer, i like the having some "small talk" with the dealer even if i am losing, it's still fun.
This new technology is not designed to give the players what they want, as the article suggests.
It is to maximize profit on each machine, and to encourage the slot player to pay maximum coins.
Unfortunately for me, the only game I still enjoy is Caveman Keno. That game obviously does not permit the casino to take a player's money fast enough, so the Strip has fewer and fewer machines containing the Caveman Keno game. Even the Canadian casinos within driving distance of my home town have taken out all the Caveman Keno machines.
Thank God for Downtown Las Vegas. It still has low denomination machines containing the old favorites, including my beloved Caveman Keno.
These huge new casinos can take their Server Based Gaming and flush it down the toilet.
Sadly, Ruark is exactly correct. Without getting too political, the "W" era allowed big business to take over this country. Everything is about the bottom line and maximum profits with minimum expense. Providing entertainment is low on the list. So very sad. They forgot that Las Vegas was the ENTERTAINMENT capital not the PROFIT capital.
I have worked with computers and computer technology all my life. I programmed computers for a living for years.
This server-based technology changes the whole gaming experience - a whole new dynamic.
The article says "Server-based gaming allows casinos to have slots connected through a network. It lets operators change themes, promotions, the amount that can be wagered and the hold at a touch of a few keystrokes."
The key here is the ability to change the hold at a touch of a few keystrokes. This is TRUE. (The Gaming Control Board may have restrictions on it, however, technically this can be done in less than 1 second. Further, I challenge any computer programmer, computer scientist, computer engineer, etc. to state otherwise. I will be glad to explain/discuss/show them how).
This means management can change your odds while you are in the middle of a game.
Once management understands the power this affords them, it will be interesting to see how they CHOOSE to use it.
Squeezing the blood out of electronic game players inevitably will drive gamblers to table games. There's no way to change the software on those dice.
This is horrible!! I visit Vegas two times a year, and I like to stay at different places. I will not be playing anywhere with this technology. Not that I am anti technology, I would hate to be on a machine and I am up a couple of hundred bucks, then have them flip a switch and I run that down to zero. That thought will always be in the back of my mind even if it was just me being stupid and spending back my winnings.
"This means management can change your odds while you are in the middle of a game."
Gaming will not let them do this, but they can change the hold % when the games are idle. I've been in this buisiness for 30+ years and now we have the capability to do EXACTLY what the customers always thought we had...the "Switch" in the back to make the machines tighter or looser. Not a good thing in my mind. with the advent of penny denominations and Native American casinos ..Vegas has decided to crank down the machines. This is why your "time on device" has diminished over the years. You ask why I put the Indians in there? Because I've heard more than one Slot Exec say if they're playing these tight games at the Indian Casinos..might as well do it here, they'll never know the difference. Bad move in my opinion.And they justify 25% holds on penny games cause, well they're just pennies...but if you look you can bet up to 7.50 on one spin on some penny games.
One old timer told me years ago
"I know you're gonna get my money and you know you know you're gonna get my money, just let me play with it for awhile"
I never forgot that . Give the players "time on device" and they will keep coming back.
Ruark-
"When Wynn built the $800M Mirage, he paid for it CASH, which he made off of people having FUN."
Actually, it was about $650 million and Steve Wynn mostly financed The Mirage from junk bonds. It was a very tenuous situation (sound familiar?) where Wynn had to make at least $1 million a day just to cover the debt payments along with all the other expenses. Thankfully, The Mirage overachieved and Vegas started booming again.
"It was FUN to laugh and talk over a $4 buffet, then go clatter some more coins in the machines."
Maybe for some, but not for everyone. I suspect that's why visitation numbers in 1990 were far lower than visitation numbers today. There's more in Las Vegas today that appeals to more demographic groups and people with other interests.
"You go in these places, and people aren't laughing and having a good time any more; they're frowning and looking miserable."
Last time I was on The Strip, most of the people I saw were quite happy and loud and having fun. In fact, that was the most crowded I've ever seen The Strip since 2007.
quixotic-
"Without getting too political, the "W" era allowed big business to take over this country. Everything is about the bottom line and maximum profits with minimum expense."
Look, I'm one of the most "far left" progressives you'll find here. I'm not one for illegal corporate profiteering... But the casinos aren't doing anything illegal here. They're not charities, they're in business to make a profit. The entertainment isn't just here to amuse us, but also make money.
FromBellevilleCanada-
"This new technology is not designed to give the players what they want, as the article suggests.
It is to maximize profit on each machine, and to encourage the slot player to pay maximum coins"
Well duh, the casinos are doing this to try to expand profits. Again, that's what businesses do. However, there probably are a number of players that will be receptive to the new technology. It's 2010, and people my age are now used to doing all sorts of multi-dimensional interactive games on everything from XBox 360 to the iPod Touch. Gaming obviously needs to keep up in offering new slots that can do more.
atdleft :
As usual you are out there trying to defend the corporate thieves. I'm convinced you are an executive Casino Management type vying for those big fat commissions from companies which are in the red.
Will they be raising the hidden 'resort fees' to $50/day to offset the server-based implementation cost and call the technology part of the resort amenities like the pool and toilet paper?
"If I can win three games simultaneously, that is better than winning one," Saenz said
THAT WILL NOT HAPPEN! You will not win 3 games simultaneously, more likely you will lose 3 games simultaneously, especially when they have control of the hold at a computer. How the NGC would allow something like this. What are the legal ramifications of changing the hold for friends/family and then again for tourists? This smells fishy
I wont play them...I m going to say in San diego there is so much competition between casinos the slots have gotten pretty loose...one casino here has those games and i wont go there...and a funny thing you rarely win there.. some of the others are outstanding..Vegas who ? now instead of going 3-5 times a year I go 1-2 times cause really Vegas kinda sucks these days.....except the M
Be mindful of the man behind the green curtain...he's not really a "Wizard".
environprotector-
As usual, you have to launch your ad hominem attacks whenever anyone here offers a different point of view. That's why so many folks have a hard time commenting here. You obviously know NOTHING about me, and it's sad you have to attack me instead of exchanging in any type of meaningful dialogue.
The Sun's a great paper, but it's said to see how the comment sections often become so venomous and fact-free.
atdleft, I thought your earlier post was great. And as pacman720 said, gaming won't let them have the freedom to make whatever changes they'd like on the fly, there will be some restrictions. That won't stop the conspiracy theories, but those people will be bitter regardless.
I don't gamble at all, personally. Certainly not what I consider to be mind numbing games like slots. But, I might consider playing if they're able to develop interesting, challenging games (and create non-smoking areas to play). I know that's not necessarily what they're talking about here, but I think it's time that the casino industry started embracing innovation and technology and appealing to different demographics.
Ruark :
Tell 'em like it is! these youngsters have never experienced Las Vegas the way we had it!!!
A click of the mouse is all that a Casino operator has to do in order to change the payout. You don't really win anything. You are chosen or picked. It's been going on like that for over 10 years. If you really believe that a Casino operator will invest in a business that he can't control then I have a condo at City Center to sell you. The fun left a long time ago.
I think they're going in the opposite direction than what should be. I'm always reminded of the song, IN THE YEAR 2525. Scary!
In my prior post I stated "The key here is the ability to change the hold at a touch of a few keystrokes. This is TRUE. (The Gaming Control Board may have restrictions on it, however, technically this can be done in less than 1 second. This means management can change your odds while you are in the middle of a game."
Two comments (pacman720 and improveLV) say the Gaming Control Board will not allow it. I said the Gaming Control Board may restrict it in my post, however, it is technically possible.
SCENARIO (that will probably be allowed)
1. In real time Executive Management sees entire slot floor (digital representation).
2. Casino floor is crowed and heavy slot usage occurring - management request MAX hold on all slots. (Time of day, slot usage patterns, human behavior characteristics data is already available to management - thanks to your players card and other information all slot machines already track).
3. Slot play (as viewed by Executive Management digital representation) drops off by 50% - management request hold go to LOWEST possible - except in high limit areas.
4. People start winning and the excitement attracts more people to the slots. Slot play (as viewed by Executive Management digital representation) increases to 90% - management request hold go MAX hold on all slots.
5. Repeat scenario or any variation of it until optimum win for the casino is achieved.
END OF SCENARIO
Someone stated earlier the machine must be "idle" before the hold could be changed (assuming Gaming Control Board restriction). PLEASE DEFINE 'IDLE'. I can think of 3 definitions off the top of my head:
a. No credits on Machine
b. No key pressed on machine for x amount of time
c. No Player card in machine
It may seem trivial what the definition of "idle" is, however, the definition alone is worth millions (literally) to the casino. The definition will determine when the casino can enact various strategies
and you wonder why sales tax revenue is down. these whiz kids running vegas have killed the golden goose. why the hell should i pay air fare cross country to come out and get more ripped off than before. good luck vegas, i'll fly over and go to santa anita.
Interesting article and I love the debating.
I will be visiting Las Vegas next month or in July. I will try to voice my opinions to Slot Managers or other casino "high ups" as best I can.
Totally agree with: you'll get my money....just let my $100 last an hour or so.
Make your money, but give us slot players what we want. Excellent management finds a way to pull this off. Do not confuse the ability to make money, and alot of it, by giving the customers what they want.
My opinions are not based on any factual financial evidence. My opinions are based upon my experience as a slot machine player and a day-to-day user of all machines. Almost makes me an expert, huh
Another tidbit: Lets say my slot budget for the day is $200. After several hours of playing, I now have $250 and am ready to go home. Usually doesn't happen. Instead, I'll probably play craps, roulette, blackjack. Maybe I will purchase some merchandise or eat at a restaurant within the casino. Thing is...even when people win, guess what they do?? They put it back in the machines or spend it in your casino.
Slot machine players are also very loyal. When I go to Vegas, I will be playing slots at Sams Town or Fitzgeralds, or another off strip room. To play on the strip? Never been profitable for me. More importantly, yes, more important that profit, my money NEVER lasted a long enough time.
I became sad when Vegas decided to make its money off less people, instead of making the same amount of money on more people. Maybe that was a better business model, I don't know. As stated, this is not my area of expertise.
Either way Vegas, I will continue to support you. You are my favorite play ground, my happy place, and where I hope to live one day. But I will also continue to voice my opinion to everyone from executives, floor management, and the casino control commission. But as stated, I have your back. I will come back next month or July and have a great time. Hope to talk with you. Hope you will at least hear me out.
Thanks!
I refuse to play server-based machines....period.
And if the time comes when all casino's turn to this method, I will retire from *Gambling*. The key word gambling to me is than I'll play on a chance,not with anyone who can chance the outcome at anytime. These machines are already too tight to attract travelers. And Especially the residents of Nevada, who freguent the resorts weekly.These rocket scientists have destroyed the image of Las Vegas. When are these shareholders ever going to listen the the people who freguent casino's? They only thing I can see that attracts people to Vegas is alcohol.So why don't you scientists raise the prices on that too? You've made the rooms so expensive, that people won't enjoy anything else.And they are not in the rooms for maybe 8 hours....lol. And shame on the regulators for letting this happen!Not only they can't see down the road on this,They don't even care about what is fair Gambling.I have another great idea for you casino's,take the lites off the top of those machines & save them for your marquee's,because you surely don't use them anymore !! If ya don't believe it? Take a stroll thru your own place, and see how many are lit. I sure did. And boy, do I feel sorry for the locals who have seen it day in and day out! God, I miss the old days where you felt you could have fun,and know that somebody is making these games fair.
Las Vegas "Fun Capital" of the world is HISTORY!!! Ruined by the corporate greedy Wall Street thieves which Steve Wynn opened the doors to back in '89. Glad I had the chance to experience this town when it was hot!
It's not gambling, it's gaming. Gaming sucks.
nitro :
Yeah, and you young folks don't have a clue what you missed... Go ahaead and get fleeced with your tight server based slot machines and 6/5 Blackjack ripoffs. In Fact if you are going to give your money away like that, just send it to me..
Don't play the slots anymore. Just stick to the table games where you can watch the dealer and make sure you're not cheated!
Nitro :
Don't count on it, the only way things are going to improve is to break up the severe monopolistic corporate casino ownership here in the valley, and generate some healthy competition for players dollars..
Its sooo sad to see this..but I have read that The Cannary on Boulder was doing well, does it have anything to do with going back to the old style Vegas??? OF COURSE IT DOES!!! When I worked at the Mirage, Bellagio had just opened..I worked as a pit clerk, and the Dealers were so upset because Steve W....took all the high rollers to his new property (Bellagio).And catered to all the asians..now..they have their own casinos..so why can't these idiots go back and start catering to the REAL PEOPLE that made Vegas...Vegas???? How dumb are they??? And these machines?? Well, lets just say, I knew when the first penny machines came in..I just knew that (even though they were so much fun..it would be just a matter of time...sad!!!
I hope all those fun sucking nerd casino execs
read some of this stuff and it sinks into their greedy heads. what do they think that I'm going all the way to las vegas from michigan, when we have all the casinos we need here, and just hand them my hard earned money and walk out, thats what they want I will not be going back any time soon, and neither are any of my friends from what i'm told. we have been going there for 25 years straight and a lot of times, 2 or 3 times a year. but I cannot take any more. the TITO started the whole thing about sucking fun, then came these terrible 1 cent and 2 cent fun suckers
and now they are coming out with some new fun sucking stuff. when is it all going to end.
I look forward to the downfall of vegas and some of those large resorts. please god make it happen soon.
why dont we start an on line boycott of vegas until all those casinos straighten up or until that so called gaming comission starts to bring to a halt the size of these places and some of the new gadgets coming out from those gaming giants like IGT. I GOT MY OWN LITTLE BOYCOTT GOING ON HERE, SO FAR I GOT ABOUT A 100 PEOPLE SAYING THEY ARE NEVER GOING BACK THERE UNTIL THINGS CHANGE FOR THE BETTER,PROBOBLY NEVER I WOULD GUESS.