Caesars Entertainment Corp. in partnership with Gamblit Gaming has announced last Thursday, March 30, the introduction of the first ever skill-based gaming experience in Las Vegas, the gambling hub of the United States. The games are subject to an initial field trial phase at Caesars' Planet Hollywood property.
Caesars Entertainment President and CEO Mark Frissora said, "Our partnership with Gamblit brings a unique experience to our casino floors and is an important step toward modernizing our customers gaming experience."
ModelG, the name of Gamblit's social and interactive game tables, can accommodate two to four players for a head-to-head gaming experience.
Every gaming terminal features a unique multi-player: multi-game machine with access to a shared 42-inch touch screen, a purse hook with two cup holders, and even a USB charging port for each player.
At Planet Hollywood, the first skill-based games launch will feature three game tables offering two games initially: Gamblit Poker and Cannonbeard's Treasure.
Gamblit Poker tests speed and skill while it allows players to win up to 240x their bet in a single hand. Every player begins with two cards, followed by a deck of cards shown in quick succession in the middle of the table. Players must quickly grab the cards they need to complete the best possible poker hand.
Cannonbeard's Treasure entertains players via a fast-paced card game, skill and a twist of naval warfare. It's just similar to blackjack but with some unique features - the game challenges players to fill their hand without winning or busting, initiating a "burndown." During the burndown, another set of additional cards will be dealt. The player who gets nearest to the objective, without going over, wins a virtual chest of gold.
The games are placed in the center of the casino area, near the Heart Bar. Midday that Thursday, a few people were checking out the games, but none was curious enough to play them.
A brand ambassador will be assigned near the machines to help answer questions.
Jennifer Forkish from Caesars said, "Our goal is to educate people about our new exciting offering. It marries the video gaming experience with the excitement of a casino atmosphere."
If the trial launch goes according to plan, Caesars aims to install additional Gamblit games at their other Nevada properties, and also at its Harrah's Resort Southern California. In the near future, Caesars is hoping to have 200 skill-based machines available across its US properties.
Also, Caesars announced that they have appointed longtime employee Christian Stuart to the newly-created position of VP of Gaming and Interactive Entertainment. Stuart shall be overseeing gaming activity at Caesars' 47 casinos worldwide and he's also responsible for "the development of innovative and exciting offerings for the future of gaming."
Source: http://www.igamingbusiness.com/news/caesars-launches-first-skill-based-games-las-vegas
