News and Analysis

Play’n Go Enter US with Michigan License

Play’n Go has entered the US market, gaining a Michigan Gaming Control Board supplier license. The developer has announced it has plans to expand further across North America. Play’n Go also entered the Ontario market in March. 

The studio offers an extensive portfolio of games in over 30 languages and releases an average of two new games monthly. The developer’s most iconic slots include Rich Wilde, Book of Dead, Reactoonz, Rise of Olympus, and Legacy of Dead. 

Play’n GO’s CEO Johan Törnqvist said in a press release: 

“We started by designing casino games specifically for mobile before the smartphone even existed, and now are breaking into America as the leading supplier to more than 25 regulated markets globally which is such a credit to everyone at Play’n Go. We believe we are uniquely positioned to succeed in the US…Our aim is to see Play’n Go games become as beloved in the US as they are in every other regulated market around the world. We know that each regulated market is different, and that this will take time in the US, but we are absolutely committed to expanding our footprint across the country.”

Delaware Almost Hits Record iGaming Revenue for June

Delaware has reported online casino revenue that’s just shy of record-breaking and up 30.5% YoY. Delaware online casinos set a new record for revenue in May 2022, recording $1.2m, and for last month, The Delaware Lottery reported $1.1m 

Across the month, players won $33.9m, and 952 new accounts were registered. The most popular online casino was Bally’s Dover (previously Dover Downs), followed by Delaware Park, then Harrington Raceway.

Maryland Preps for Mobile Sports Betting

Retail sports betting has been live in Maryland since December 2021, but no mobile licenses have been granted to date. This week, steps have been taken as the Maryland Sports Wagering, and Application Review Commission approved draft regulations for online sports betting. While this is not the final step before betting apps launch, and there are still bundles to jump through, it is a giant leap forward!

PointsBets Joins NCPG Research Project

PointsBet has partnered with the National Council on Problem Gaming to launch new research on responsible gambling decision-making for online betting operators. The study examines how industry, government, and stakeholders respond to specific scenarios when customers display potentially problematic behavior. 

Understanding how to navigate and identify problem gambling is a complex issue. The project aims to add more insight into how situations are dealt with so best practices can be developed.

PA Sets New Recording for Gambling Revenue in FY 21-22

PA has set a new revenue record for the financial year 2021-22, grossing $5.04bn. That’s 29-5% higher than the previous year, with land-based gaming showing the most considerable growth. Meanwhile, iGaming grew 37.4% YoY, with Hollywood Casino still leading the market.

Industry Celebrates SBC North American Awards 2022

Rounding off with good news, this year’s SBC Awards are out, and DraftKings has been awarded Sportsbook of the Year for the second consecutive year, while BetMGM was awarded Casino of the Year. 

Other winners included Entain for Socially Responsible Operator of the Year and Caesars Sportsbook for Marketing Campaign and Sponsorship of the Year. Meanwhile, FanDuel’s Amy Howe was given the Leader of the Year award for her overall contribution to the industry.

Game of the Week

Gzira Infinity Reels: Yggdrasil & ReelPlay. RTP 96.45%.

Giza Infinity Reels was created by Yggdrasil and ReelPlay using ReelPlay’s licensed Infinity Reels mechanic. It’s a stunning slot to spin with low bet levels ($0.25-25), big prizes (max win is 10,000x your bet), infinitive possibilities, and free spins.

Based on the world’s seventh wonder, Giza’s Pyramids, this game delivers beautiful graphics and action-packed gameplay created by the Infinity Reels set-up. Play beings on a 3x4 reel grid, but the magic of this game is the infinity reels mechanic. This sees the reels expand into ‘infinity,’ offering numerous playing possibilities and increasing win multipliers with each new reel until you hit the jackpot prize of this game (when the reels expand to include the 15th reel, you’ll hit the jackpot win of 888x your TOTAL bet).

Giza Infinity Reels is a must-play slot. We recommend you take it for a spin at one of our recommended Yggdrasil Casinos.

News and Analysis

White Hat Studios Teams up with Galaxy Gaming

White Hat Studios have increased its US position this week by adding Galaxy Games’ proprietary tables to its content. Galaxy Gaming is known for its fresh games, which supply more options to players.

White Hat Studio’s CEO, Andy Whitworth, said of the deal; “We’re delighted to be working with Galaxy Gaming. This is a perfect relationship as both companies have such a resolute focus on innovation… I’m really excited by our first title Blackjack Players Choice, which is actually a game I’ve wanted to build for years. It gives players true flexibility and choice by allowing them to select which of Galaxy’s side bets they wish to play. We have been blown away by positive operator feedback and are already building operator branded versions of the first game.”

Green Jade Games Available at Pariplay Casinos

Pariplay has also increased its portfolio this week, striking a US-exclusive deal with Green Jade Games that will see the studio’s top titles featured on Pariplay’s Fusion platform. The titles include games that challenge mental skills rather than just paying out based on chance and a selection of slots.

Pariplay Director of Partnerships Callum Harris said of the agreement; “Green Jade has built a deserved reputation for producing slick, compelling arcade games that are very popular with players all over the world… It’s fantastic to have them on board as a new Fusion partner for the US market. The unique offering is set to grow over the coming months and years and it’s a privilege to be aligned on a growth journey as igaming continues to roll out across the country.”

BallyBet Sportsbook Launches in NY

BallyBet launched in NY this week, more than six months after the market launched and nine months after the company was awarded a license. Bally’s chair, Soo Kim, said the delay was due to unfavorable market conditions (the NY operator tax rate is 51%), which has seen brands like BetMGM (already live in the state) limiting their presence.

California Democrats Recommend Voters Say No To Online Betting

The California Democratic Party has recommended voters say no to online betting when it appears on November’s state ballot. The ballot includes two proposals; the Tribal-backed proposition, “California Legalize Sports Betting on American Lands Initiative”, and a commercial proposal, “Proposition 27”, backed by betting brands like BetMGM, FanDuel, and DraftKings. The party has dominated CA elections since 1996, meaning its ballot endorsements hold weight with voters.

Game of the Week

Space Wars 2: Powerpoints: NetEnt, RTP 96.05%

Space Wars 2: Powerpoints is the sequel to NetEnt’s early 2013 Space Wars Slot. Although often overshadowed by more popular titles at that time, like Starburst, the original Space Wars is an absolute gem of a game. It may have taken NetEnt a few years, but they’ve finally got the gang of cute aliens back together on 6x6 cluster pay reels.

It is one action-packed slot, and it’s got multiple bonus features, so stick with us as we take you through them:

• Avalanche Reels: 3+ matching symbol award wins, and with each, the avalanche reels kick in, awarding a re-spin.
• Powerpoints: Every win you make contributes powerpoints to the meter, which equates to bigger win multipliers.
• Column/Row Blaster: 4 symbol wins trigger the column blaster, which removes all non-wild or bonus symbols from the row or column and adds extra powerpoints to the meter.
• Zapper: 5-6 symbols wins trigger the Zapper, which removes 1-4 or 3-4 types of symbols.
• Bombs: Hit a win consisting of horizontal and vertical matching symbols, and a bomb symbol appears, blowing after the line win is paid and removing characters from the reels for a more impressive re-spin.
• Wild + Multiplier Wild: Score a 3-symbol line, and a wild symbol will be added. In free spins, these are multiplier wilds and apply to the payout and number of powerpoints.
• Combos: If any of the bonus features land adjacent to another, they combine, becoming more powerful.
• Free Spins: Once you’ve collected 1,000 powerpoints, free spins start. The bonus is played on 8-row reels, and you can re-trigger the round.

Load up the reels, betting from $0.20-100, and play Space Wars Powerpoints Slot at any of these top NetEnt Casinos.

News and Analysis

White Hat Gaming and Wizard Games Go Live in the US with BetMGM

White Hat Studios has continued its US growth going live at BetMGM Michigan on Wednesday, with further plans to roll out across BetMGM sites in other states soon. 

In the same breath, BetMGM has forged a second deal this week with Wizard Games, bringing new content to New Jersey. Top titles from Wizard Games include Dragons of the North, Wolf Riches, Spirit of Mustang, Ice Ice Hockey, Wildwood Buffalo, and many more.

High 5 Games Hits Pennsylvania 

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has awarded High 5 Games an igaming manufacturer license. This means that top games, including Secrets of the Forest, Dangerous Beauty, Golden Knight, and Midnight Eclipse, will soon hit PA online casinos. H5G is currently licensed in NJ, CT, and MI.

Evolution Gaming Go Live in West Virginia

If you’re a West Virginia player who has been awaiting live dealers, then it’s time to hit your favorite WV online casino and finally start playing as Evolution Gaming is now live. WV players can now access Live Blackjack, Infinite Blackjack, Live Roulette, Lightning Roulette, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, and Three Card Poker.

Slot Game of the Week

Jackpot Fortunes: Wizard Games, RTP 96.50%

This week we’re welcoming Wizard Games to BetMGM, Borgata, and Party Casinos NJ as a new supplier. If you’ve not tried out their games before, Jackpot Fortunes is one of the studio’s hottest jackpot slots. It was initially released in September 2020 but is brand new to the US online casinos and well worth your attention.

It’s a 5x3, 243 ways game with an all-Asian theme packed with golden fortunes and treasure. The concept is simple, and the most enthralling bit is the bonus rounds. An epic free spins round comes with multipliers, and all you need to do is hit three scatters anywhere on the reels to trigger it. 

The fortunes jackpot round is triggered by collecting wilds, which turn into golden coins. You’ll then enter the round, a click-and-pick bonus, where you’ll need to reveal three matching jackpot symbols to win the mini, minor, major, or grand jackpot.

Set your bets at Wizard Games online casinos and stake from $0.08-88 for max potential rewards of 2244x.

News and Analysis

White Hat Gaming Strikes Deal With PlayEagle.com

White Hat Gaming has struck a deal with Michigan online casino, PlayEagle.com. The agreement will see White Hat supply the platform with its portfolio of branded titles (including European titles, Ted, Deal or No Deal, and Peaky Blinders) slots and jackpots. The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe operates PlayEagle.com. It is a new online casino for 2022.  

Online Gambling to be Included in California’s November Ballot

The CA Secretary of State announced on Monday that a new gambling proposal will appear on this year’s November ballot after gaining the required 997,000 signatures. The proposed law is backed by commercial operators, including BetMGM, but it is opposed by tribal gaming groups, who also have a sports betting bill appearing on the ballot. 

North Carolina House Rejects Sports Betting Bill

This week North Carolina lawmakers rejected a new bill that would have legalized sports betting in the state. A single vote (51-50) defeated SB 688 on its second reading, which took place on Wednesday. A complimentary bill, SB 38, passed the House, coincidentally also by a single vote. However, as the legislation was created to amend SB 688, it cannot go ahead alone.

Gaming Realms Gets Connecticut License

Online slot content developer, Gaming Realms has secured a service provider license in Connecticut. The license allows the developer to offer its games to licensed CT online casinos. DraftKings and FanDuel already have multi-state agreements in pace with Gaming Realms, so if you’re a player at either of these online casinos, you’ll find the games immediately added to their respective lobbies. The developer is already licensed in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.

Representatives Ask DoJ to Investigate Offshore Operators

28 US representatives have signed a letter to Merrick Garland, Attorney General of the DoJ, requesting a crackdown on offshore gambling operators. The letter highlighted the “predatory operations” of offshore illegal gambling sites, including cyber and financial crime, lack of sports integrity, and no age restrictions, all of which put US consumers at risk. 

It went on to name several operators (including Bovada, MyBookie, and BetOnline), asking the DoJ to investigate and prosecute the “worst actors” and to better educate gamblers about the dangers of offshore gambling.

Slot Game of the Week

Bushi Sushi Slot: DGC. RTP 96.06%

Bushi Sushi Slot is a 2021 release that’s just hitting the US now. It’s a pay-both-ways slot, which means you can make lines from left to right, and right to left. This makes it much easier to build line wins in this Asian food-themed bonanza of a slot game. 

The charm of this slot game is in the fun graphics and simplicity. The main bonus features are Sushi Samurai Wilds which expand across whole reels, and free spins round that can deliver up to 40 spins if you manage to re-trigger it. What’s more, you can gamble for double or nothing after each successful win. You can also expect more frequent expanding wilds during the bonus round of this simply scrumptious slot game.

Set your bets from $0.10 up to $300 at any of our top-rated DGC Casinos.

News and Analysis

Stakelogic Gets Interim Michigan License

Casino and games provider Stakelogic has secured a provisional supplier license to operate in Michigan. The license means that Stakelogic can now offer its games to operators in the state and is part of the developer’s wider goal of expanding across North America.

BetMGM Agrees to Cruise Ship Gambling Deal with Carnival

BetMGM has struck a deal that will see it deliver iGaming, mobile and retail sports betting onboard Carnival Corporation cruise ships. Under the agreement, BetMGM will provide more than 50 cruise liners ported in the US with betting services. This includes all Carnival, Holland America, and Princess Cruise lines. 

Evolution Gaming Acquires Nolimit City

This week Evolution Gaming has reaffirmed its move into the slot world by acquiring Nolimit City for €340m. This follows the iGaming giants' 2020 acquisition of NetEnt. Evolution’s Chief Executive, Martin Carlesund said that the deal was motivated by the high-quality and distinctive elements of Nolimit productions.

Revenue Figures For May

Pennsylvania

Total revenue figures are up 8.4% from May last year. Land-based gaming remained the most popular form of gambling, but all sectors showed growth. The most popular online casino was Hollywood, followed by BetRivers Casino.

New Jersey

Total revenue in NJ was up 15.1% YoY for May with growth in all sectors. Land-based gaming was the primary revenue source, while online gaming increased 25.7% YoY. Borgata Casino remains the most popular, followed by Resorts then Golden Nugget.

Michigan

Meanwhile, in Michigan online gambling is soaring with iGaming showing a YoY increase of 28.8% and sports betting showing a 127.4% increase. However, in terms of total revenue, that is a 1.4% decrease compared with April 2022.

Game of the Week

Silent Hill™ Return: Konami, RTP: N/A.

If you’re into horror, then you’ve probably heard of Silent Hill, if you’ve not played it before. First released in 1999, it’s a media franchise produced as a series of survival horror video games and was later also made into a film, popularizing it further. 

The slot is based on the never-ending streets of Silent Hill and is filled with haunting characters and jackpots y around every corner. Hit up matching logo symbols in the fog, blue (to win a cash credit prize or trigger a bonus game) or a red fog (for the chance of a jackpot or the bonus game), but keep your wits sharp as danger lurks and this slot is a recipe for chills, thrills, and sheer excitement. 

The bonus game is 20 free spins and asks you to turn your fear into a cash landing by matching symbols and holding your own against the Bogeyman. Ready to take the excitement up a level in this nail-biting horror slot? Then take it for a spin at these Konami online casinos.

News and Analysis

Livespins Partners with WynnBET

Livespins has this week made its US debut with WynnBET. Under the deal, WynnBET utilizes the Livespins platform to “stand out from its rivals and provide its players with a new way to experience online casino.” Livespins is a slot streaming platform that allows players to watch and bet behind the game alongside the real-time play. 

Supreme Court Sides with Texas Tribes

A decades-long disagreement has been settled by the US Supreme Court this week, which ruled in favor of two Native American tribes (Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Indian Tribe and Alabama-Coushatta Indian Tribes of Texas). In a narrow 5-4 ruling, the Supreme Court has decided that both tribes have the autonomy to provide electronic bingo gaming on their lands, despite state rules, as laid out in the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

DraftKings and BetBlocker: New Collaboration

DraftKings has announced a new deal with responsible gambling not-for-profit BetBlocker. BetBlocker’s software allows players to set restrictions on gambling activities and devices across gambling sites and regions, regardless of whether the site is licensed. The tool is free, doesn’t harvest player data, and can be downloaded anonymously; it has already seen massive success in Europe and the UK and will now enter the US and CAN markets through DraftKings.

NCPG Gets US-Wide License for Gambling Helpline

National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG has agreed to broader use of its 1-800-GAMBLER helpline with the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ) across the US. The six-year licensing agreement means that the NCPG can use the helpline in all US states. The arrangement and extension of the service is a vital step forward in increasing problem gambling awareness and support.

Game of the Week

Hammer Gods, Red Tiger Gaming. RTP: 94.71%

Plenty of slots are based on Thor and the power of his mighty hammer, Mjolnir. What you might not know is that Mjolnir was forged by two brothers, Sindri and Brokkr. While the brothers have mostly escaped pop culture attention, they are the focus of this game, filling the screen and sitting alongside the left and right of the 5x4 reels. Central to the action, they can turn lower-paying symbols into matching higher-paying combos or wilds.

The aim of the game is to line up matching symbols to make wins. The most valuable character is the wild. Line up 5 of these, and you’ll get 10x your stake. The wild can also sub for other symbols to help you make more winning lines. Both Sindri and Brokkr have unique bonus features, triggered by landing 1x2 hammer symbols (red for Brokkr, which can only land on reel 2, and blue for Sindri, only on reel 4).

The Brokkr feature turns all low-value symbols into a single matching higher-paying symbol for the feature. Meanwhile, Sindri turns up to 3 different types of higher-value symbols on the reels wild. If both hammer symbols land on the same spin, you’ll get 10 free spins with one or both hammer features guaranteed to trigger up to 3 times per free spin! 

Hammer Gods slot is a fantastic, easy-to-play game with a great theme and bonus features - you’re going to love it. Ready to forge your wins and see what the gods have in store for you? Then start spinning Hammer Gods slot at these top Red Tiger Gaming casinos!

News and Analysis

BetRivers Adds Sports Betting Markets in West Virginia

Rush Street Interactive has announced it’s adding a sportsbook to the already live West Virginia BetRivers Casino. The West Virginia casino has been open since April 2021, and the addition of sports betting vertical expands the brand’s presence in the state by offering its players more ways to bet.

theScore to Exit US

Canada-based betting brand theScore will exit US markets on July 1st to focus on Canada, leaving Penn National Gaming (which acquired theScore last year) to focus on the Barstool brand in US markets. theScore is based in Canada and was one of the first licensed operators to go live. The move allows both brands to continue in the market they are strongest in and maximize the brand value.

MGM Sells Gold Strike Operating Rights for $450m

MGM announced this week that it is selling the operating rights to Gold Strike Hotel & Casino in Tunica to the Cherokee Nation Entertainment Gaming Holdings for $450m in cash. MGM has said that the future looks bright for Gold Strike, leaving the brand to concentrate on a single Mississippi resort, Beau Rivage. Gold Strike has been operating since 1994 and was acquired by MGM in 2005.

Spin City Sentences Handed Out

Three people have been sentenced for their role in an illegal Michigan gambling operation Spin City. The sentences come after a Michigan Gaming Control Board investigation following reports of an illegal gambling operation in Flint Township. All three persons pled guilty to the charges.

Henry Williams, MCGB executive director, has issued the following statement: “The Michigan Gaming Control Board appreciates the support from the Attorney General’s office and police agencies across Michigan in helping to eliminate illegal gambling locations, which target low-income neighborhoods, lack player protections, and can lead to other more serious crimes.” 

Slot Game of the Week

Defenders of Asgard Slot. High 5 Games, RTP: 96%

Not sure what slot game you should be spinning this week? The answer is High 5 Games’ newest US release, Defenders of Asgard Slot. Set on 5x4 reels with 10 lines, this game takes you into the heart of the battle to defend Asgard and fight for independence against Odin.

The reels are filled with Thor, Odin, the Warriors of Asgard, and A, K, Q, J, and 5 with features delivering Nudging Reels with Scatter Bucks, Stacked Wilds, and Random Multipliers for an action-packed experience that’ll keep you gripped to your seat. 

The nudging reels are random and mean that one selected reel nudges, moving up to 5 symbols for extra wins. The scatter bucks feature leads to bigger payouts if the symbols line up in your favor, and the free spins can deliver between 10-25 spins on the house, with a bonus pay table. You’ll also find regular and stacked wilds in play to help boost wins even further and random lightning multipliers that can strike at any moment.

Will you forever be known as a defender of Asgard? Spin the reels of this high volatility slot from $0.20 to $ 200 and find out at any of these top High 5 Games Casinos.

News and Analysis

888 Launches Sports Illustrated Sportsbook in Virginia

888 has launched its SI Sportsbook in Virginia, following the platform’s Colorado premiere last year. There are plans to roll out the platform to other states in the coming months. 

Caesars Racebook Debuts

Caesars Entertainment has launched, providing wagers at over 250 tracks worldwide via its new online racebook. Currently, it’s only available to players in Ohio and Florida, but with plans to expand. Here’s what Digital Chief Development Officer Dan Shapiro had to say regarding the launch:

“The launch of Caesars Racebook is an important milestone as we continue to add wagering opportunities for our customers and live-streaming content for the first time. We look forward to welcoming new horseracing customers and existing fans onto the platform and to working with NYRA Bets LLC to grow horse racing as we deploy Caesars Racebook with plans to launch in about 30 states across the country.”

WSOP Kicks Off

The 2022 World Series of Poker kicked off this week in Las Vegas, and Event #1, a $500 Casino Employees tournament (No-Limit Hold’em), has been won by Katie Kopp, taking first place and a five-figure payout. Kopp is a dealer and poker player from Ohio.

Slot Game of the Week

Fa Fa Babies Slot. Red Tiger Gaming. RTP: 95.74%

Fa Fa Babies is a rich and enticing 5x3 reel slot game themed around lucky money and fortune coins. It’s a Far Eastern adventure that dishes up the chance to win big with fortune jackpot prizes and plenty of lucky money!

The game has 20 lines and is absolutely gorgeous when it comes down to design. To start winning, all you need is to match 3+ symbols on any betline (wilds are available). But, if you want to increase the action, look out for the fortune coins, which you can collect from winning symbols. These trigger a click and pick fortune prize game, and lucky red envelopes can also land, increasing your prize potential, and there are free spins too!

If you’re looking for an action-packed, new, and totally stunning slot to spin this weekend, there’s only one choice! You can check out Fa Fa Babies at any of our top-rated Red Tiger US Casinos and spin the reels from $0.20-40.00.

News and Analysis

Interstate Poker Launches in Michigan

Michigan has officially joined the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement, which allows players from Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey, and Michigan to play online poker against each other and for liquidity sharing. This is excellent news for MI players and the other states as it doubles the potential participants in games and tournaments and will also increase the available prizes.

High 5 Games Secures PA License

High 5 Games has announced that they’ve secured licensing in the Keystone State, meaning players in Pennsylvania will soon be able to access the studio’s top-performing content at multiple PA online casinos. It’s been a great start to the year for H5G, which just last week confirmed that they were extending their partnership with MGM and entering the New Jersey market.

Bragg Gaming Group Closer to Spin Games Acquisition

Bragg Gaming Group has this week come closer to completing its acquisition of Spin Games after being approved for a Pennsylvania license. This was the final step required before the purchase, which was agreed upon in May 2021, could occur. The deal is expected to close by the end of this month. Since agreeing to the acquisition, Bragg has worked closely with Spin Games to complete technical integration between the two brands. Spin Games already holds NJ, PA, MI, and CT licenses.

PGCB Issues $35,000 in Fines to Operators

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has issued several fines totaling $35,500 for self-exclusion violations and unlicensed activities. Wind Creek Bethlehem received the most significant penalty of $20,000 after failing to prevent a self-excluded consumer from accessing games over four days. Other fined operators include Mountainview Thoroughbred Racing Association along with Underdog Sports.

Game of the Week

Liberty Cash Spins. Inspired Gaming. RTP: 94.7%.

This is a new slot game from Inspired Gaming that celebrates the USA and all its freedoms. It’s a classic, star-spangled spinner enhanced with wheel symbols that can combine for increased prize potential, and it offers players the chance to enjoy a Las Vegas-style slot from the comfort of their homes or on the go.

It comes with 5x3 reels, 25 lines, crisp and vibrant graphics, patriotic symbols, and an immersive country-rock soundtrack that’ll keep you spinning. The main bonus features are expanding wilds and a cash spins round - let’s look at both.

Wilds can land on reels 2,3, and 4. The wild subs for all non-bonus symbols to help you make line wins, and when they land, they’ll also expand to cover the whole reel. You’ll need to land 6 bonus symbols to trigger the cash spins round, but this isn’t the only way to access it. You can also land a 2x2 square of bonus symbols, which will merge into a bonus wheel symbol and spin. If it lands on green, you’ll get the cash spins round, red, and you get nothing.

The cash spins round starts with the triggering symbols staying on the reels and grants 3 re-spins. Each new bonus symbol also sticks and resets the spins to 3. Score chance wheels and they’ll merge into bigger 2x2, 3x3, and 5x3 symbols. The round continues until you run out of spins or complete the reels with a 5x3 mega wheel. Before closing, the remaining wheels spin, awarding cash prizes between 1-40x depending on the size of the wheel and where it stops once spun. If you managed to fill the reels with a 5x3 mega wheel, you’d also walk away with either the mini (30x), minor (100x), major (250x), or mega jackpot (1,000x) jackpot. 

Ready to play? Then set your bets from $0.25-100 at these Inspired Gaming Casinos.

News and Analysis

Michigan Becomes Fourth State to Join Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement

Michigan joins Nevada, New Jersey, and Delaware as the latest state party to the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement. The agreement permits member states to share liquidity among players. This is excellent news for poker rooms as Michigan players can now play against gamblers in other states. 

New York Approves Plans for Three New Land-Based Casinos

NYS lawmakers have announced plans for three new land-based casinos establishments downstate. While bidding for the three new licenses is yet to open, the plan details a minimum fee of $500m and continues the gambling expansion in NY, which saw legal online sports betting go live at the start of this year. You can find out more about legal online gambling in New York via our state guide.

IGT and Agrees iSoftBet Acquisition

IGT has agreed to the acquisition of iSoftBet for $174.1m. The acquisition adds 225 games to IGT’s library, doubling its offerings. The deal is expected to be closed in quarter two of this year.

Videoslots Secures US Access for 2023 via Caesars

Malta-based online casino operator, Videoslots has secured US market access through a deal with Caesars and is expected to launch its Mr Vegas brand casino in Pennsylvania by 2023 before going live in other states.“This is a significant milestone in our strategy, having enjoyed significant success with our product in a host of markets, including Sweden, the UK and Denmark. We are now aiming for something similar in the US as we move towards our goal of becoming the world’s leading casino operator.”~ eoslots Head of Casino, Henrik Enesund.

Revenue Figures for March: The State of the States

• New Jersey: Everything is looking rosy in the Garden State as total gaming revenue for March is up 17.8% YoY, with Borgata Online Casino leading the market. 
• Pennsylvania: Meanwhile, Pennsylvania players have smashed revenue records again after March hit an all-time high iGaming and retail total revenue of $432.5m, a 14.8% YoY increase.
• Michigan: The Michigan market is still showing strong growth, with commercial and tribal operators reporting $162.2m in total iGaming and sports wager receipts for March. This is a 27.3% YoY increase, with iGaming showing the most significant growth (up 38.2% YoY). 
• Delaware: Lastly, The Delaware Lottery reports an 11.6% YoY increase for iGaming revenue, with Dover Downs claiming the top spot and taking the most revenue. 

Slot Game of the Week

Reel LinKing: Inspired Gaming, RTP 95%.

This is the latest installment of the iconic and popular Reel King™ brand from Inspired Gaming. Set on 5x3 reels with 20 lines, this title is packed with potentially big wins, classic symbols, and high-quality graphics. 

The game delivers classic gaming and features two bonus mechanics; the Reel King Five Ding bonus and the newer Win & Spin mechanic. The five dings bonus can land randomly on any spin if all five reels light up yellow.

This triggers the Reel King feature, where one to five Kings appear on the reels, spinning each individually for prizes. If you don’t win, that king disappears. The round ends when you have no spinning kings left.

You’ll need to land six coin symbols to kick off the second bonus, the Reel LinKing round. This takes place on a new game screen and starts with three re-spins. All symbols are removed except coins, and only new coins or blanks can fall; try to fill the reels with coins before you run out of re-spins. 

Plus, you can gamble after every win if you want even more action. Load up the reels from $0.10-100 and play this game at these Inspired Gaming US online casinos.

News and Analysis 

New-Look betPARX Goes Live In NJ and PA

This week, Greenwood Gaming (Parx Casino) and Playtech have released the all-new betPARX platform and native app. The platform takes over the original Parx Casino site and license and is powered by Playtech's IMS software. 

The site is already live, and players in NJ and PA can sign up and play with a $20 no deposit deal either for the sportsbook or the casino, or a 100% matched deposit bonus up to $750 and 500 free spins! The app launches with over 50 Playtech titles, including those created by the studio’s in-house developers, like Rarestone, and numerous third-party options from IGT, Konami, and AGS, to name but a few. Here’s what Mathew Cullen, betPARX VP has to say about the new platform:

“We are incredibly proud to be launching betPARX® in conjunction with an industry leading technology provider in Playtech…We’ve made the sign up, deposit and cash-out processes as simple and smooth as anything in the industry. Plus, we’ve created a product that ensures a great experience to any user, casino or sports. We invite everyone to download and play betPARX® and remember that Today Just Might Be Your Day!”

Playtech is now active in three US states, NJ, PA, and MI, where they provide the Play Gun Lake Platform. 

Wynn Resorts Leading the Way in Sustainability

Wynn Resorts (WynnBet brand) has won a “Global Vision Award” in a nugget of good news for the week. The award highlights companies moving towards sustainable business practices and recognizes Wynn Resort’s “net-zero by 2050” goal.

PayNearMe Hits 9,000 Walgreens

PayNearMe users listen up; things just got a whole lot more convenient as recently, the company has announced a new deal that will bring its service to 9,000 Walgreens countrywide.

PayNearMe is a funding option for cash players who want to load up their online gaming accounts, and until now, it was only available via 7-Eleven and CVS branches. However, with a Walgreens store within five miles of 78% of the US population, this deal dramatically extends the applicability of this payment method. 

Delaware IGaming Revenue Still Skyrocketing into 2022

Delaware iGaming Revenue is still climbing as player spending rises 11.4% YoY for February. Delaware Park Casino is still the operator in the pole position in this state when it comes down to total revenue, with Dover Downs in second place and Harrington Online Gaming in last place.

Game of the Week

Bust the Mansion Link&Win, Pulse 8 Studios: RTP 92-96% (ranges)

Bust the Mansion is a 5x3, 25 lines, high volatility slot game that delivers up to 10,000x your bet (bets from $0.25-25). Load up the reels and click spin; you aim to line up matching symbols on a payline to score a win.

The money vault symbols can appear anywhere, and when you land 6+, the Link&Win feature is activated, locking the symbols and granting 3 re-spins with all new vault symbols sticking. The round ends when you fill the reels, earning a bonus of 5,000x your stake payout or when the spins are up. You can also access jackpot vaults worth 20, 50, 200, or 1,000x your bet during the round. 

If you’re looking for more action, this game has it, as there’s a free spins round too! Land 3+ golden key scatters to unlock 10, 15, or 25 spins. In the round, the middle symbol is a special wild that’s sticky and could see you trigger the Link&Win feature in free spins! 

Ready to play? Then settle down and start spinning this slot at BetMGM or SugarHouse Casino.

News and Analysis

Federal Bill Proposes Slot Tax Threshold Reform

HB 6937 was introduced yesterday to the US Congress and passed the House Committee on Ways and Means. The Bill looks to amend a 1977 law, adjusting the tax threshold on slots jackpots from $1,200 - $5,000 to meet inflation.

There is broad consensus within the industry that these changes are far overdue and will implement the mechanisms needed to ensure that the tax rate can be reevaluated and adjusted for inflation in the future.

​​“Increasing the slot tax threshold to account for inflation is a long-overdue change that will alleviate unnecessary administrative burdens on casino operators, their customers, and an understaffed and overwhelmed IRS,” AGA president and chief executive Bill Miller said.

NY Considers iGaming Bill

This week a new iGaming bill (A09436) has been introduced to the New York State Assembly. The Bill looks to legalize interactive gaming and real money wagers on casino games through electronic means for players in NY via servers kept at licensed facilities.

The Bill proposes two skins per casino license, a one-off fee of $2m, and a 25% tax rate on gross gaming revenue (GGR), contributing to the state lottery and education funds. 

It’s barely two months since legal online sports betting went live in NY, with great success, in February GGR of $91.7m for the month and total stakes of $1.54bn.

Rush Street Acquires Run It Once Poker

Poker players, are you ready for one of Europe’s most successful brands to hit the USA? You should be because Rush Street Interactive has this week purchased Phil Galfond’s poker platform, Run It Once, with plans to bring it to the US market. 

Under the deal, the poker software will be integrated into the RSI iGaming platform. The sale took 18 months to finalize, but both parties are happy, with Galfond commenting that RSI shares his transparent and fair ethos to online gambling and will allow the poker network to grow and reach more players, scaling up to its potential.

DraftKings Falls Foul of the NJDGE

DraftKings has received a $150,000 fine from the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement after failing to block proxy betting on site. The specifics apply to a single case, with the Attorney General finding that DraftKings has not upheld their commitments. In addition to the fine, the operator will have to take corrective actions to prevent further cases of proxy betting on the platform.

Game of the Week

Enough with the news; it’s time to turn to games, and more specifically, what online casino slot you should be spinning this weekend. 

Age of Akkadia. Red Tiger Gaming: 96.5% RTP

Take a trip in history to Ancient Mesopotamia (2nd-3rd millennia BC) with Red Tiger Gaming’s brand new Age of Akkadia Slot. The game features stunning graphics, 5x5 grid reels, cluster pays (3-5+ symbols), wilds, a hidden bonus symbol, and mystery multipliers. 

Load up your bet and spin the reels, making wins and revealing the bonus symbol behind the ruin block symbols. Clear enough by making consecutive clusters to show the bonus logo, and you’ll get 10 free spins. During the bonus spins round, the hidden multiplier feature is active and can add up to 10x on each spin, staying active throughout the round, reaching a max value of a 30x payout multiplier for the whole game.

It’s a medium-high variance slot with stakes from $0.10-40, so make sure you bet well to spin long enough to hit the bonus round. You should also be aware that the max payout is relatively low for a med-high variance slot at 2,048x your total stake. However, as a brand new Red Tiger release, it’s still worth discovering what this game is all about and revealing the hidden mysteries of the past!

Take it for a spin at Red Tiger Gaming US online casinos.

News and Analysis

Connecticut January Online Revenue Report

Connecticut’s January revenue figures are in with net gaming revenue of $18.8m. That’s a 15.6% increase on December’s totals. Connecticut is the latest US iGaming state, with the first sites launching legal sports betting and casino games in October 2021. Currently, two online gambling sites in CT offer casino games, DraftKings and Fanduel. 

Want to learn more about the legal outlook for online gambling in CT and precisely what you can bet on? Check out the complete Cabbie guide.

Paysafe Partners with Hard Rock NJ

This week Paysafe and Hard Rock Digital have agreed on a multi-year deal that will see Paysafe process all NJ online transactions for the operator. Paysafe securely links between players’ debit or credit facilities and online casinos for deposits and withdrawals and offers ACH services. 

Kentucky: Looking Towards Legal Online Gambling?

Senate Bill 213 was introduced by Senator David Yates in Kentucky. The Bill outlines legal and in-person sports wagering fantasy sports and online poker regulation and infrastructure.

The Bill is comprehensive and has been referred to the Committee on Committees. It follows from the 2021 failed attempt by Republican Rep Adam Koenig to legalize sports betting. It’s not clear as yet how far this new bill will go.

Flutter Entertainment Announces “Positive Impact Plan”

“Play Well”, “Work Better”, and “Do More.” This week Flutter Entertainment has announced its new Positive Impact Plan for 2022. The plan will support customers, staff, and communities driving positive change, providing safer gambling and more diversity (on the company level).

We love news of positive change and more support to players. Flutter Entertainment owns FanDuel, one of the US’s biggest and most popular iGaming and sports brands.

Slot Game of the Week

Bust the Mansion (DGC Network) RTP: 96.23%

Looking for a feature-packed bonus slot to spin this week? Then you’ve got to hit up this new release that can deliver potential wins up to 10,000x your bet! This game is a show stopper with jackpot vault bonus symbols, random multipliers, wilds, a Link & Win feature, respins, and free spins. 

We could go into more details, but we don’t want to give anything away. All we can say is play the game - won’t regret it. Spins start from $0.25-10 at DGC Casinos, and you can also try it in demo mode for free.

West Virginia Looking to Legalize Esports

West Virginia's House of Representatives is considering HB 4826. If enacted, this bill would extend WV's legal sports betting market to incorporate esports. The bill defines esports as "electronic sports or competitive video games played as a game of skill for spectators." If passed, WV will join NJ and Nevada as the only legal esports betting states.

Find out more about gambling in West Virginia via our complete state guide, Online casinos in WV.

Rush Street Signs New Multi-State Agreement with Penn National

Rush Street Interactive has signed a strategic partnership with Penn National, which will see the company provide its iconic BetRivers sports platform in Ohio, Maryland, and Missouri for up to 20 years (subject to regulatory approval).

Here's what RSI president Richard Schwartz had to say of the deal: 

"We are pleased to gain potential market access to three new states as we continue the execution of our strategy to gain access and bring our best-in-class online gaming offerings to key markets across the United States...The addition of Ohio, Maryland, and Missouri to our market access portfolio, specifically, builds on RSI's success in neighboring states and will create enhanced marketing efficiencies for our BetRivers.com brand."

Caesars to Cut Advertising Spending

Caesars Casino has this week confirmed that they'd be drastically cutting back media spending after an advertising-heavy 2021. Rather than this being a sign of revenue issues, in the case of Caesars, it's a story of success, as the company has become one of the most popular choices with US online gamblers and has seen revenue growth of over 168% in 2021. 

Pennsylvania Hits Record-High Gaming Figures

PA figures for January are in, and the state is reporting total gaming revenue of $393.1m (26% increase YoY for Jan) and an all-time high for iGaming. The most popular online sites in revenue were Hollywood Casino, DraftKings, BeRivers, and FanDuel.

Slot of the Week

Book of Independence: Inspired Games. RTP: 96.23%

Book of Independence is a brand new slot machine that combines stars, stripes, and free spins for max payouts up to 5,000x your bet. We should probably say from the start before any "Book of Slot" fans get their hopes up - this is not an adventure slot.

This game has10 lines, 5x3 reels, and the symbols are all-American classics with the highest paying symbols awarding wins from just 2 symbol bet lines! There's even a wild to help you make more wins, as it subs for non-bonus symbols in a betline, and during the free spins bonus round, any wilds that land sub and expand to cover multiple reel space.

Collecting 3+ scatter symbols awards 10 free spins; these come with a mystery expanding symbol. Plus, if you like your stakes high, then after every win in this game, you can put it all on a gamble feature that'll leave you with double or nothing!

Are you ready to find out what Book of Independence has in store for you? Then start spinning this cheeky title at any of our top-rated Inspired Games Casinos from $0.10.

News and Analysis

Resorts Digital in Discussions Over Third NJ Skin

Resorts Digital is in the midst of discussions with an unnamed “major global sports betting company” over the NJ license holder’s third and final online skin (providers in NJ each have the availability to operate three sports betting skins per license). The company in question has not been named, but the deal is close to finalization. If it goes ahead, Resorts Casino will stop offering sports betting on the brand's own gaming platform, Resorts Casino, focusing solely on the casino product. 

Delaware iGaming Shows 51% Increase YoY

Delaware, the sleepy state of iGaming, has recently seen greater trends towards online gambling, recording a >51% YoY increase for January, making it the most successful month on record. Gooo Delaware!  

NY Betting Handle for First Month Hits Almost $2bn.

If you catch our weekly digests, you’ll know that we’ve been following NY’s mobile sports betting launch carefully. The figures for the first month are now in, and it’s official, NY players have outdone themselves, betting just under $2bn. in the first 30 days of legal mobile sports betting. 

That’s a terrific GGR of $138.5m, which has generated $70.6m in tax for the state. Throughout this time, Caesars has remained the go-to sportsbook of choice. Here’s what New York Governor Hochul had to say:

“Over the past month, we’ve seen how mobile sports wagering can be an economic engine for New York, driving significant funding to our schools, youth sports, and so much more…As this new industry continues to grow, New York will make sure we have the resources and guidelines in place to make it a success for all.”

Game of the Week

100X Ra. Lightning Box Games, RTP:96.11%

100x Ra is a brand new multiplier slot from Lightning Box Games. If you know your slots, then you’ll know that this game joins a host of other Egyptian-themed titles out there. This title defines itself with cutting-edge graphics, incredible multipliers, and level-up free spins.

Start making wins landing matching symbols on 5x3, 1024 ways reels for main game payouts. But if you’re seeking hidden treasures, you’ll want to keep a keen eye peeled for the scatter bonus symbols that appear on reels 2-5. Collect 3-4 scatters to trigger seven free spins.

During the round, scatters are replaced with level-up scatters. Hit 2, 3, or 4 level-up scatters, and you’ll get another seven spins at the next level (there are 26 levels, which equates to a max of 182 spins). Each level comes with different RA symbols, aka multipliers, and at level 6, they hit as high as 100x, hence the game's name!

Start spinning this brand new title from $0.40-18.00 at Casino Cabbie’s top-rated Lightning Box Casinos - let’s spin!

News and Analysis

PointsBet Opens in PA

This week, PointsBet launched in Pennsylvania. The sportsbook has gone live with its soft launch just in time for the Super Bowl and delivers the innovative Points Betting system to PA players. 

What is Points Betting? It’s the betting system in place at this site, where bets are paid according to how wrong or right they are, rather than paying out for winning or losing bets, and every point counts.

You can register at PointsBet PA now and claim your $2000 new player risk-free bonus in time to lay your Super Bowl bets this weekend.

American Gambling Association: Players Set to Bet $7.6bn for Super Bowl LVI.

Carrying on with the Super Bowl theme, this week, the AGA forecast for the Super Bowl LVI is out, and they’re estimating total wagers of $7.61bn made up of  31+ million individual bets. This is a 35% increase from last year’s figures. It reflects the development of more states legalizing online sports betting and making placing bets on the biggest events of the year easier.

WynnBet Joins NY Market

WynnBet is the latest sportsbook to go live in NY as part of the Kambi-led licensing group. WynnBet is currently one of the fastest-growing operators in the US, having launched in 2020 and already live in eight states. If you’re a NY player, check it out!

Slot Game of the Week

What slot game should you be spinning this week? There’s only one answer; it’s NetEnt’s Reef Raider Slot. This game is an instant hit with players due to its generous math model and amazing artwork. Let’s dive in and take a look.

Reef Raider Slot. NetEnt, RTP: 96.02%

Reef Raider is a 7x7 cluster pay slot with cascading reels and downright stunning graphics. If you know your slot mechanics, you’ll already know the aim of the game here is to make the biggest clusters of symbols for payouts.

When you make a winning line, all winning symbols are removed, allowing new symbols to fall into the empty spots and give you a second chance at winning. Clusters can be built from 5-49 symbols, and there are multipliers, mystery, special and wild symbols on the reels too. 

The main game bonus symbols correspond to four random bonuses that’ll light up the reels with extra features, including symbol swaps, extra wilds, mystery treasure features. There’s also a free spins round (which you’ll trigger by collecting symbols and charging the Treasure Trail meter), multipliers up to x50, and two wild symbols available! 

Play this action-packed underwater slot from $0.20-100, and you may see yourself winning the max payout of 8,500x your bet! Take it for a spin at these NetEnt Casinos.

NYS Mobile Sports Betting Booming

The New York State Gambling Commission has released more booming figures from New York. The market launched on January 8th; between then and January 23rd gross gambling revenue has totaled $91.4mn. Current sportsbooks in the state include Caesars, FanDuel, Draftkings, Rush Street Interactive, and PointsBet. Since the market opened, Caesars has remained the highest-grossing site, accounting for $487.4m in bets and $41.8m in revenue. In second place is FanDuel, then DraftKings.

BetMGM Opens DC Sportsbook

BetMGM and Washington Nationals have opened a new retail sportsbook in Nationals Park, making BetMGM the first sportsbook connected to an MLB stadium. The partnership is a multi-year agreement and includes BetMGM’s mobile sports betting app.

Game of the Week

Magic of the Nile: IGT. RTP: 96.2%

Ancient Egypt is one of the most popular online slot themes, and it never gets old with players. Magic of the Nile is IGT’s recent rehash of the genre. It’s set on 5x3 reels with 30 lines. Base game wins are made by matching 3-5 symbols from left to right, but the feature rounds are where the most action is, and the in-game wilds and multiplier will assist with base game wins.

There are two additional bonus symbols; a scarab beetle with a gem and pyramid bonus tile. The scarab and gem symbols can come in altering colors, and you’re trying to fill the meters at the side of the reels with the corresponding gems - each symbol that lands reveals a gem and fills one out of three places on the meter.

The third meter awards a modifier that turns between 5 and10 symbols into green Wilds. When you fill the red one, you get expanding reels, and the rows increase from 5 to 6, making 75 ways to win. The blue meter replaces all green wilds with random multiplier wilds. The final bonus round is free spins, triggered by landing 3+ pyramid bonus symbols, awarding 8-12 spins. Each scarab that lands holds one or two gems (meaning you can activate the earlier bonuses in free spins) and adds an extra spin. The round maxes out at 50.

Overall, this is a brilliant slot game with substantial max win potential and a top RTT that’s just over the industry average of 96%. Ready to start spinning? Load up the reels at these IGT Casinos.

NY Update: Bettors Spend a Total of $6mn in First Nine Days Betting

It’s all go this week in the Empire State as the financial figures come in at $6million in total spending and $48mn in revenue for the first nine days of legal mobile sports betting. The statistics show that Caesars sportsbook was the highest earner. Meanwhile, PointsBet has got the go-ahead to launch in NY and offers its innovative PointsBetting system, which considers how right or wrong your bet is. By all accounts, things are off to a flying start in this state!

Pennsylvania Ends 2021 On All-Time Revenue High

The figures are in, and it’s official, Pennsylvanian players hit new records in 2021, with the total gambling revenue reaching $4.73bn, that’s 78.5% higher than 2020. Sports betting and Esports saw huge revenue spikes, with Valley Forge’s FanDuel site, the most popular operator. At the same time, iGaming also saw an incredible 96.7% jump in total revenue from 2020, with Hollywood Casino topping the revenue charts.

Playtech Increases Live Offering, Securing Rights to Million Dollar Drop

Playtech has secured the exclusive rights to Million Dollar Drop live (Money Drop Live) in the USA, as well as extending their current agreement for a further five years on Deal or No Deal Bingo. Money Drop live is a must-play as it challenges your attitude to risk and reward with nail-biting gameplay!

E-Sports Go Live in New Jersey

This week the NJDGE has granted permission to E-Sports Entertainment Group to begin accepting bets, making them the first E-Sports provider to go live in the state, and you can check out what they are offering right now as their soft launch began on Tuesday, 24th.

Louisiana Launches Mobile Sports Betting Today

It’s January 28th, which means only one thing: Louisiana legal mobile sports betting goes live today, Ladies and Gents! Sports betting was legalized in 2020 after the parish-parish referendum, and since, the state has been hard at work passing independent laws to regulate the industry, like tax reforms. Caesars is one of the first sportsbooks expected to go live, along with DraftKings, Golden Nugget, and BetMGM.

Slot Game of the Week

Our slot of the week is one of the most anticipated games of the year, and it comes from Stormcraft Studios.

ThunderStruck Wild Lightning: StormCraft Studios. RTP 94%.

It’s been 11 years since Stormcraft gave us its second installment of the Thunderstruck slots, the legendary Thunderstruck II. Thunderstruck Wild Lightning is part three and is now live at US online casinos. It delivers a Wild Lightning bonus round, four free spins, wild multipliers, link and win feature, unlockable rows, and jackpots up to 15,000x your bet in max payouts!

It’s a 5x4, 40 line slot game that’s high variance and costs $0.20 to spin. There are several key symbols, so pay attention. The Wild can land stacked or singular Thor; it can also be a multiplier wild and acts as a wild, subbing for other symbols to make betline wins.

The lightning orb symbol triggers the link and win feature if you get six. This is a re-spins round, where winning symbols stick, and you get three spins. New orbs reset your spins to three and also stick to unlock rows. You’ll want to lock the rows as it leads to bigger payouts; there are four to do, requiring 15, 20, 25, or 30 orbs on the reels. The link and win re-spins feature ends if you run out of spins or when the whole grid is filled with orbs. You can also hit the jackpot during this round by collecting the colored jackpot orbs for ​​25x, 50x, 150x, and 15,000x your stake.

Thor’s Hammer is the scatter symbol. It leads to scatter pays and 5 different bonus rounds, which you’ll move through chronologically, each offering a larger win, more spins, and a bigger max multiplier. The fifth round is triggered differently, but we don’t want to dish out all the delicious details of this slot right here; we have to leave you with a reason to play!

This is a must-spin slot, and newer generator players can also backtrack to the original and second title in the series for some vintage slot action! Play this slot game at BetMGM, Borgata, and SugarHouse Casinos

News and Analysis

BetMGM Becomes New York State's Fifth Mobile Sportsbook

BetMGM joins NY State operators as the fifth approved mobile sportsbook, with permission to launch from Monday 17th January. BetMGM adds to Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Rush Street Interactive, which are already live and accepting bets.

Michigan’s 2021 Total Gambling Figures Revealed

Online casinos launched in January 2021 in Michigan, and this week the state has revealed the total internet gambling yield for the year (commercial and tribal online casino operators and online sports betting) at an impressive $1.40bn. Of this, online casino games contributed $1.10bn and sports betting a further $2.92.2mn, which has created a total of $208.9mn in tax revenue - what a fantastic first year of online gambling it's been for Michigan.

IGT’s Cashless Wallet Gets Nevada Go-Ahead

IGT has this week secured regulatory approval for its cashless Resorts Wallet and IGTPay cashless gaming modules in Nevada, meaning it can now launch throughout the state. The new wallet can be funded via debit, bank accounts, and Play+ and will allow players a future-forward way to pay and play in person.

DraftKings Becomes Sole Operator to Run Super Bowl Ads

DraftKings will be the official and sole operator to run adverts during this year's Super Bowl LVI set for 13th February. The 30-second advertising spot comes at the cost of $6.5mn.

Game of the Week

If you're looking for this week's hottest slot action, then check out this number from NetEnt. It went live in Casinos on the 13th, so you can load it up and start cracking the code for big payouts right now.

Codex of Fortune: NetEnt. RTP 96.11%

Set on 5x4 reels with 40 paylines, Codex of Fortune is a 7-tier level-up slot that brings the adventure to your doorstep on any device. It's a sequel to Turn Your Fortune (which if you've not played, you probably should as it's awesome, but it's not a prerequisite for understanding this game) and is all about leveling up for bigger prizes that can total up to 10,000x your bet.

Start making wins by matching 3-5 symbols from left to right on the reels. The jeweled key symbol is the wild, and the peacock is the scatter. Land two scatter, and you'll trigger a re-spin, land 3, and you'll go straight to free spins.

You'll notice on the left of the reels there's a codex, which is active in re-spins and free spins: this is how you'll level up. All you need to do is collect sets of symbols in fives to level up or use key symbols to skip levels, unlock the codex, and access higher payouts.

Are you ready to crack the code? Start spinning from $0.40-200 and get your game on these top US NetEnt Casinos.

News and Analysis

IGT starts the Year by Joining ​​Science Based Targets’ Initiative on Climate Change

Games developer and casino supplier IGT has joined the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi); the project aims to drive climate change action from the business sector and is a worldwide initiative. IGT will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, set net-zero targets, and complete yearly sustainability reports as part of the pledge. IGT joins more than 2,000 global companies adopting SBTi and is one of the first iGaming companies.

New York, New York

New York is the state that everybody is talking about this week as legal mobile sports betting officially launched on January 8th, with the four licensed operators going live (Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Rush Street Interactive). New York State bettors, we hope you’ve had a great week.

BetMGM Launches Borgata Bingo App in NJ

BetMGM has launched a new Borgata branded bingo app for NJ residents, claiming to be the USA’s first real money 75-ball bingo product; the app delivers a full roster of bingo, as well as slots and jackpots. Players can also earn M Life Rewards while playing for even better perks.

MGM’s M Life Rewards Gets A Revamp

Speaking of the M Life Rewards Club, MGM Resorts has announced that they are relaunching the loyalty club on Feb 1st, under the new name, MGM Rewards. Promising to be bigger than ever before, MGM has said the club will offer “unprecedented” access to further benefits for US players.

Penn National Gaming Commits to AGA’s Responsible Gambling Drive

Penn National Gaming has pledged support to the American Gambling Association, “Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly” campaign, which aims to raise awareness of responsible gambling. The four core principles of the campaign focus on educating players to:

1. Set a budget.
2. Bet socially, not habitually.
3. Know and understand odds
4. And to only play at safe and licensed operators.

Penn National Gaming will promote the “Have A Game Plan” content via its Barstool betting platforms and other digital and social media accounts. AGA senior vice president Casey Clark said of the agreement:

“Penn National’s expansive digital and land-based footprint will amplify our Have A Game Plan campaign to consumers across the country. We are appreciative of Penn National’s significant commitment to the campaign as we collectively work to ensure every sports bettor is equipped with the knowledge to wager responsibly.”

Slot Game of the Week

That’s enough with the news; it’s time we got down to talking about which slot game you should spin this week.

Joe Exotic Slot: Red Tiger Gaming. RTP: 95.7%.

Reg Tiger Gaming is taking on Netflix’s outrageous Tiger King and reinventing it for slot fans as a 5x3 20 line spinner in this new release. Love it or hate it, we’ve all heard of the Tiger King, so this slot is sure to have an instant pull for some players, and it certainly opens with a blaze of guns and fire.

As the official slot, you can expect this game and theme to be as outlandish and downright crazy as the original series, which was aptly named, Tiger King: Murder Mayhem and Madness (should you need reminding, the real Joe Exotic is currently servicing time after being convicted of 17 counts of animal abuse, and 2 counts of murder for hire).

To begin making wins, all you need is to match 3-5 symbols from left-right on one of the 20 paylines on the reels. The highest paying and main game symbols bring back the most infamous characters in the Joe Exotic storyline (sin Carole Baskin). The game also comes with 4 bonus features, so there’s plenty to play for, including a click and pick round, take it or leave it bonus, free spins with only high-paying symbols, and free spins with reel modifiers added.

We don’t want to dive into any more detail, as if you’re a Tiger King fan, you just need to spin this slot. Check it out at these Red Tiger Gaming US online casinos and play from $0.10-20 for potential payouts of up to 4,117x your bet.

News and Analysis

No Signs of Delaware Market Growth Slowing

With November’s revenue figures rolling in, Delaware has had its highest-earning month since March 2021, with gamblers spending $996,639, that’s up 7.2% on last month’s figures and a 75% increase for the same month the previous year! The most popular sites in terms of total spending in this state are Delaware Park, followed by Dover Downs, and in third place, Harrington Raceway.

EveryMatrix Applies for Michigan and West Virginia Licensing

Gaming software provider, EveryMatrix has applied for WV and MI licensing, continuing the company’s US expansion. The provider is already live in NJ, and earlier this year, launched a new US-facing games studio, Armadillo Studios.

Every Matrix President, Erik Nyman, expanded: “This follows our clear path and ambition to be live with our technology and products in states that allow for a full casino and sports betting offers. I am very pleased with EveryMatrix’s progress in the US and looking ahead to an exciting 2022.”

Festive Bonuses Available at US Online Casinos

December is one of the most significant earning months in the iGaming calendar, as players indulge more and enjoy the festivities and operators offer better bonuses. If you’ve not taken advantage of the fantastic casino bonuses available at this time of year, then you must. Most casinos provide more generous bonuses and themed competitions, like festive slot tournaments, advent calendar daily sign-in rewards, and more!

For particularly tasty Christmas bonuses, check out:

• BetRivers' 12 Days of Christmas
• Golden Nugget’s festive free spins and countdown to Christmas bonuses
• BetMGM’s $200K Winter Leaderboard.

888 and PointsBet Secures Virginia Sports License

In our last nugget of good news for this week, 888 and PointsBet have secured Virginia licensing. For 888, the license is currently provisional, while PointsBet is already live after partnering with the Colonial Downs Group.

Slot of the Week

If you’ve not caught it already, then this month, we’re celebrating the top 5 Christmas slots for US players; read the whole article, then decide which festive cracker you’re going to take for a spin this festive season!

Alright, folks, that’s it for us. We’ve loved bringing you all the latest news and games across the year, and we’ll be back with more in 2022! Have a wonderful Christmas from all of us here at Casino Cabbie.

News and Analysis

The Michigan Gaming Control Board Issue Player Warning Over Black Market

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued a warning to Michigan players after receiving complaints of winnings not being paid and difficulties requesting refunds. The gambling sites subject to the complaints are not MGCB licensed sites and are black market operators, prompting the MGCB to warn all players about the dangers of offshore gambling.

The MGCB does not pursue unregulated sites, and unlike sites it regulates has no power to enforce rules or mediate disputes. This is one of many reasons why offshore gambling isn’t safe.

To check if you are playing at a legal, safe, and fair casino or sportsbooks that payout, all you need to do is use a Casino Cabbie verified and recommended gambling site, or go to the provider’s homepage and scroll to the bottom. Platforms regulated by a US state government bear the state’s seal, making it quick and easy to check licensed operators. Always look for the logo and play safe.

TwinSpires Launches in New Jersey

Twinspires Casino is live in New Jersey. Operated by Churchill Downs, the official sponsor of the Kentucky Derby, Twinspires launches with a $1000 bonus bet deal for sports fans or a $500 risk-free casino bonus.

NJ Smashes Existing Records in all States with Highest Grossing Month on Record

With revenue figures for 2021 across the US smashing through expectations, it’s now official. In October, NJ broke the record for the highest gambling revenue in a single state across one month.

Slot Games of the Week

As the industry gears up for a record-breaking festive season, we’re all about Christmas slots this month! If you’re looking for our rated top festive spinners that’ll get you in the festive mood and potentially bring you wintery wins, check out our top 5 Christmas slots for US players.

North America’s Gaming Intelligence Awards Round-Up

The Gaming Intelligence Awards 2021 are in. The ceremony is one of the most significant gambling awards, and each year, eight operators from each continent globally (Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America) are recognized for their commitment and achievement to the industry. This year´s winners have been announced:

The above content is summarized from The Gaming Intelligence Awards. If you’d like to read more in-depth about what the GIA pannel had to say of each operator, follow the link to read the full awards.

Wazdan Gains West Virginia Supplier License

A few months after Wazdan gained NJ supplier access, the games studio moved into West Virginia, bringing new products and games, including popular titles like Sizzling 777 Deluxe, Lucky Reels, Space Spins, Power of Gods: The Pantheon, and Magic Stars 3. Wazdan has been making casino games since 2010 and has licensing applications processing in Pennsylvania and Michigan.

SG Completes Acquisition of Elk Studios

In our last piece of news this week, Scientific Games has completed the acquisition of Swedish developer Elk Studios. Elk’s games content will go live in the USA and SG’s other global markets, bringing iconic titles such as Wild Toro II, Ho Ho Tower, Katmandu, Wild Seas, Sam at the Beach, Taco Brothers, and Cygnus to the table.

Game of the Week

Monopoly Big Spin. Scientific Games RTP: 88.66% - 95.70%.

We’re celebrating the Gaming Intelligence Awards Game of the Year this week, Monopoly Big Spin. It’s a one-of-a-kind slot game that borrows from other casino games, like Roulette, and offers low stakes that any player can enjoy, prizes up to 40x in the main game and up to 200x on the money wheel bonus round. 

The game opens onto the Monopoly Big spin wheel, filled with segments corresponding to the original Monopoly board (Utilities, Railroad, and Free Parking icons and colors brown, red, blue, and more, that match the Monopoly streets).  You’ll see the Minor, Major, and Epic jackpots; roughly 2% of each stake is contributed as these are progressive jackpots.

To play, lay your bets and spin the wheel, Roulette style. If you hit a win, you’ll get the payout. Bet on and hit Community Chest or Chance, and you’ll get to spin the bonus wheel. Win Free Parking or Go, and you’ll get the most significant base game payouts and one or two free spins.

The bonus wheel is filled with Mr. Monopoly symbols paying between 5-200x your bet, and free spins are on the house. The Mega Drops, aka progressive jackpots, can drop at any point, but the higher your bet, the higher your chances. 

Start playing 2021’s game of the year at these Scientific Games Casinos. Set your bets from $0.10-700, and away you go! 

News and Anaylsis

Michigan Continues Octobers Record-Breaking Revenue Smash Across Gambling States

Last week we brought you the revenue roundups for October from the key US iGaming states. While Michigan might’ve been a little late getting their figures in, they certainly don’t disappoint; Michigan continues the record-break revenue streak seen across all states, reporting a 30.8% increase in sports and a 7.1% increase in casino revenue from September’s figures. Way to go, Michigan!

Senator Addabbo Sets Sights on January Launch for NY Sports Betting

New York’s Senator Addabbo has announced the possibility of sports betting as early as January 2022 in the state. This week, the gaming commission finalized regulations for operators, with the final step being to agree on the location of the gambling servers before operators can launch.

Court Ruling Stops Sports Betting in Florida

Sports betting in Florida has ground to a halt after Columbia District court this week ruled that the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s state compact violates the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988.

Sports betting in the state launched on November 1st after a gaming compact was agreed between the state and Florida’s Seminole Tribe in May that granted exclusive online and retail sports betting rights.

However, the compact was challenged this week by two casino operators, who claimed that it goes against the Florida constitution, questioning if online gambling constitutes gambling on tribal lands or if it created an “expansion of tribal lands,” which according to the FL constitution must be agreed by referendum.

Judge Friedrich ruled that the compact attempted to “authorize sports betting both on and off Indian lands.” Adding, “By simultaneously authorizing sports betting on Indian lands and deeming gaming across Florida to occur on those same lands, [the compact] purports to authorize sports betting throughout the State.” Therefore, this was clearly outside of tribal gambling and considered an expansion.

Judge Friedrich ruled for the immediate revoking of FL’s new gaming compact, reinstating the 2010 pre-existing compact, and advised state and tribal parties to renegotiate new pathways to legal online gambling.

Penn National Opening Hollywood Casino, Morgantown PA

In our last nugget of news for this digest, Penn National Gaming will open a new Hollywood Casino in Morgantown, PA, on December 22nd, just in time for Christmas. The casino is a category four establishment and 80,000 square feet, featuring 750 slot machines, 30 table games, and Barstools’ sportsbook available on site.

Game of the Week

Dream Catcher RTP: 96.58%. Evolution Gaming.

Dream Catcher is a live dealer game show from Evolution Gaming, and one of the only live game shows currently available to NJ and PA players.

It’s a high thrill spin and win money wheel game with 54 segments on the wheel. To play and win, all you need to do is lay bets on the wheel segment you think the game will stop on after the dealer spins it. Bet correctly, and you win. Make an unlucky guess, and you lose your opening stake.

But that’s not all; you’ll also see two segments on the wheel with x2 and x7 on them. You don’t need to bet on either of these as they are bonus segments. Should the wheel stop on one of these, all bets remain for a re-spin, with the multiplier added to the winning bets.

Live game shows put you center stage as the star of your very own TV-style game show, but instead of having limited participants, anyone can load up these titles and play 24/7. Ready to spin the wheel and see what you can win? Then start playing Live Dream Catcher at these live game show casinos.

Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania Gambling Revenue Sky-Rockets for October

With revenue reports for October in, it’s clear that Delaware iGaming is going from strength to strength, as last month, the state saw a 44.5% increase in revenue YoY. That’s a 17.1% increase from September.

Meanwhile, in NJ, both iGaming and sports betting revenue is hitting all-time highs, with total gambling revenue up 32.7% from October last year. Lastly, Pennsylvania is also smashing records with a 33% YoY increase, and Parx Casino is leading the way in terms of revenue, followed closely by Hollywood Casino.

DraftKings Open Retail Sportsbook in CT

This week DraftKings has opened a permanent retail sportsbook located at Foxwoods Resort Casino, CT. This replaces the temporary venue the operator set up when gambling went live CT in September this year.

If you’re not up to date with the CT market, operators, and casinos, check out our complete online casinos Connecticut guide and get the lowdown and where to play.

WSOP 2021 Ends with Koray Aldemir Winning the Main Event.

This year’s World Series of Poker has drawn to a close, with Koray Aldemir winning the main event title and eight million dollar prize. 6,550 players competed in the main event, and it took over 200 hands at the winning table before Koray walked away claiming first-place. The final day saw three players remaining, Aldemir, Holmes, and Jack Oliver. Aldemir was the favorite to win, and Holmes came second, with Oliver in third.

Slot Game of the Week: Skadi's Hunt. RTP: 96.18%.

You’ll have to wait two more days to play this title, as it goes live over the weekend, but nether-the-less, this week’s game of the week is Skadi’s Hunt from IGT. The game draws inspiration from Norse Mythology and presents a detailed, snow and mountain-filled backdrop with glowing Norse symbols.

This IGT casino game comes with 5 reels, 243 ways to win, and a free spins bonus feature that’s the star of the show, offering different spin and multiplier combinations that provide up to 60 spins or a 5x multiplier. Potential payouts for this game are sky-high 10,000x your bet!

Alright, folks, that’s all we’ve got time for this week. We’ll be back next Friday with all the latest news and stories from the US gambling scene.

What's Hot: NY Announces Sports Betting Licensees.

New York has picked the two mobile sports platforms that will receive state licensing. The winners are the FanDuel (comprising DraftKings, BetMGM, and Bally Bet) and Kambi led proposal (including Caesars Sportsbook, PointsBet, Resorts World, Rush Street Interactive, and Wynn Bet).

The winning bids proposed 51% gross state tax revenue, with operators paying a $25m fee for ten-year licenses. The tender opened in July and saw two other proposals submitted (a competitor bid from Kambi and an independent application from bet365).

PointsBet Chief Exec said of the outcome: “Today’s news of being recommended by the New York State Gaming Commission marks an exciting moment for us at PointsBet. […] Having the potential to secure market access to New York state – expected to be one of the largest and most important markets in the United States – represents another major milestone for our company, our brand, and our technology.”

PGCB Hands Out Triple Operator Fine

Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, the PGCB has been busy issuing three fines, totaling $150,000. The penalties included one to Mountainview Thoroughbred Racing Association (Hollywood and Barstool platform operator) for not upholding self-exclusion orders and allowing players to access the operator’s gambling platforms.

All we have to say is that we hope Mountainview has learned its lesson and doubles down on its exclusion protocol. What’s more, it’s good to see that the PGCB is putting online player protection and responsible gambling at the forefront of regulation.

Hard Rock Opens Temporary Illinois Casino Branch

This week Hard Rock has opened Rockford Casino, Illinois. The establishment is a temporary branch of what will become a permanent casino establishment in the state. The temporary casino is located one mile from the location of the permanent site and currently holds 625 slots. It is open 24/7 and has a Hard Rock commercial center on-site. The temporary and permanent venues are expected to provide more than 1,000 jobs locally and result from the 2019 Gaming Expansion Bill, Illinois.

Will Sports Betting Go To The Ballot in California?

Four California tribal operators have proposed the Age Verified Tribal Online and In-Person Sports Wagering & Homelessness Solutions Act. The act will bring retail and online sports betting to the state under tribal and state regulation if passed.

The proposal makes compelling arguments that tribal operation is the safest course for sports betting implementation. It also proposes a contribution rate of 10% of gaming revenue going to the California Homelessness and Mental Fund and donating 10% of its GGR to the Tribal Sports Wagering Revenue Sharing Trust Fund on top of state taxes.

The proposal requires signatures from 8% of the electorate from the previous gubernatorial election. If it gains the necessary support, the proposal will appear on the November 2022 ballot. If the bill passes the vote, it can come into effect from September 2023.

High 5 Games Scores WV Supplier License

High 5 Games has this week secured immediate permission to offer its games in West Virginia. The online and mobile slot provider secured its supplier license from the West Virginia Lottery and will go live with top titles like Retro Riches, Triple Double Da Vinci Diamonds, and loads more from early 2022.

Pariplay Hits BetMGM NJ and MI

In more games software news, Pariplay has secured a double deal this week after agreeing on a distribution deal with BetMGM NJ and MI. Under the agreement, Pariplay will provide its in-house games and third-party content to BetMGM players. Pariplay’s Fusion platform includes 120 of the supplier’s proprietary games with over 1,000 third-party options.

Record-Breaking Third Quarter for US Gambling Revenue

The American Gambling Associations’ commercial gambling tracker has reported the second record-breaking quarter in a row for US gambling. That’s $13.89bn in GGR, bringing the total for the year so far to $38.67bn. Here are the key findings from Q3:

• Sports Betting revenue is growing rapidly, showing a 153.1% YoY increase.
• Online gaming grew 4.1% from Q2.
• Slot games generated $9.56bn and tables, $2.49bn (traditional gaming revenue).
• Ten land-based gambling states set revenue records, including NJ, PA, NY, and NV.

Slot Game of the Week

Luminous Life Slot: Playtech. RTP: 94.44%

Luminous Life is a Playtech slot that takes players deep under for luminous re-spins, free spins, a jackpot payout, and gorgeous graphics on any device. Set on 5x3 reels, with 243 ways to win, Luminous Life takes place on floating reels with luminous sea life symbols that you’ll need to line up to start making wins.

Throughout the game and bonus round, whenever you win, the paying symbols will stick, and a respin takes place, adding to your win potential at no cost. To hit the highest payouts, you’ll need to make it to the free spins round by getting 3+ scatter symbols on the reels. During the round, all scatter symbols become frozen wilds, and you’ll start with 5 spins (with the respins feature active).

What’s more, if you fill the reels with scatter symbols entirely at any point in the game, you’ll get the grand prize payout 0f 250x your total bet! Ready to start spinning the reels? Check out this top title at our recommended Playtech Casinos and play from $0.20.

News and Analysis

Tipico Launches New NJ Online Casino with Ocean Casino Resort

German betting company, Tipico has secured NJ market access after agreeing on a licensing partnership with Ocean Casino Resort, with plans to expand to further states in 2022. Tipico has been operating in NJ since last year when it launched a sports betting platform. The new online casino will feature games from SG, Netent, High 5 Games, Everi, Gaming Realms, and Inspired Gaming.

WynnBet Gains Access to WV Market

WynnBet sportsbook and online casino has this week confirmed that it will be launching a WV platform after successfully entering the state through a partnership with Delaware North Casino. WynnBet currently offers gambling services to players in Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, Michigan, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Gaming Realms Secures Full MGCB License

After operating on a provisional license since January 2021, Gaming Realms has now secured full iGaming licensing in Michigan. Gaming Realms is already licensed in NJ and PA and is a mobile-focused games developer.

Yggdrasil Signs IGT Distributor Deal for USA

This week, Yggdrasil Gaming has hit a home run in the USA after signing a distribution deal that allows the studio access to the market through IGT. The agreement will see Yggdrasil’s top games offered in all IGT US online casinos from December 2021.

Yggdrasil is a popular casino games developer who creates modern and thrilling slots with cutting-edge graphics and brilliant bonuses. Expected games going live include Vikings Go Wild, Valley of the Gods, and Cazino Zeppelin, along with many more.

SG Enter Live Games Market with Authentic Games Acquisition

SG is currently making many internal changes, and last week, they successfully agreed to the sale of its lottery division. This week, in a move that signals the iGaming software provider’s new strategy, Scientific Games has moved into the live casino games market by aquiring Authentic Games.

The purchase allows SG to provide live titles worldwide and develop new games. Authentic Gaming is one of the most popular live software options for casinos and is featured at Betway, Leo Vegas, and Mr.Green in Europe.

Paysafe Launches Skrill 2.0 with Instant Cashouts

This week, Paysafe USA unveiled Skrill 2.0, the new, revamped e-wallet that offers instant, frictionless deposits, and withdrawals, plus an updated UX, improving the end-user experience.

Paysafe is the payment provider platform for 75% of the USA’s gambling industry, and the changes go live just in time for NFL season. Skrill 2.0 is the product of market research, which revealed that ‘three-quarters of online gamblers would change their payment method if it meant a quicker payout.’

Instant withdrawal casinos have been the focus of many operators across 2021, and Skrill 2.0 offers the options at all Paysafe casinos in the US.

No Link Between Slot Features and Excessive Play - Future Anthem

Gamesys and data collection body, Future Anthem have released a new gambling harm behavior report that suggests there is no link between the features of a slot game and excessive play.

The data was collected and analyzed from 36 million gaming sessions and 800,000 players with player harm markets were compared against slot stats, including volatility, hit rate, and RTP. Overall results finding no correlation between the game features and harmful outcomes.

Bally’s Bids for Chicago Land-based Casino Development

Bally’s has submitted a proposal to build a $1.6bn. Casino resort in Chicago. The proposed resort would comprise 2,700 slot machines and 95 table games, a hotel, and an outdoor music venue with numerous restaurants should licensing go ahead.

Slot Game of the Week

9 Masks of Fire: DDC. RTP: 96.24%

Released in 2020, 9 Masks of Fire is a top-performing casino slotf, and it comes with a killer RTP of 96.24%. Set on 5x3 reels with 20 lines, this game mixes retro design vibes with modern mechanics to make a hit game that costs $0.20-60 per spin.

Delivering a max potential prize of up to 2,000x your bet, the main game action is the free spins that come with multipliers. You can trigger this round by collecting three shield symbols, which starts a bonus wheel where you can earn between 10-30 spins and up to a 3x multiplier before entering the round.

Ready to spin the reels and see what you can win? Then check out 9 Masks of Fire Slot at these US DGC casinos.

News and Analysis

CT Gambling Update

If you follow our weekly news digests, you'll know we've been following the Connecticut online gambling launch closely over the last month. It's been exciting as the first sportsbooks went live with the soft launch on the 18th, followed a week later by casinos with DraftKings and FanDuel bringing real money online games to players in this state for the first time.

In an update to this story, CT has grossed an estimated $1.2million in bets during the first week of legal online gambling - what a week! And, that's not all; the first of the state's 15 potential retail gambling outlets has also launched. It's a partnership between Rush Street Interactive and the CT Lottery; PlaySugarHouse sportsbook at Sports Haven in New Haven.

If you want to learn more about online casinos in Connecticut and the legal outlook, then check out our online casinos CT gambling guide.

DraftKings Pulls Out from Entain Discussions

Earlier this month, we reported that DraftKings was trying to broker a deal to acquire Entain and had made two bids for the company. DraftKings and Entain have now ended discussions, with DKs exiting the agreement without success. Entain has released a statement saying they look forward to expanding their US presence independently.

Scientific Games Sells Lottery Division

Scientific Games has this week agreed to sell its lottery division to Brookfield Business Partners for $6.05bn. The SG lottery network is one of the most popular globally and is used in over 50 countries. The sale is part of SG's 2021 strategy for divesting the business.

Alright, that's it for the news update this week, folks. It's time to take a look at the top slot that you should be spinning this Halloween weekend.

Slot of the Week: Halloween Jack, NetEnt. RTP: 96.28%

With 5x3 reels, 20 paylines and a spine-tinglingly spooky theme, Halloween Jack is the perfect game to spin this Halloween weekend. Initially released in 2018, Halloween Jack™ is a branded slot that 'tells the story of a young girl who discovers a cursed jewellery box that forces her to do unspeakable things. While trying to get rid of the box, the girl unleashes a great evil'.

This game is not for the faint-hearted, and you'll enter the story at midnight on Old Hallows Eve. Prepare yourself for scary animations, spooky graphics, free spins with the Jack'O'Lector wild bonus features, walking wild re-spins, and big coin wins of up to 3,000x your bet.

To start playing, select one of our top-rated NetEnt casinos to join, load up the reels from $0.20-100, and click spin. To make wins, you want to match 3+ symbols on any of the 20 paylines. The max base game payout is 50x your stake for a winning line made of 5 vampire symbols.

The wilds of this game are particularly awesome as they are walking wilds, meaning every time a Jack O'Lantern symbol hits the reels (a wild), you'll get a re-spin where the wild symbol moves one space left with each spin. The re-spin continues until the symbol leaves the reels, and any wins you make have a 3x multiplier awarded, making for nail bitting gameplay.

To trigger free spins, you'll need to collect 3 of the jewellery box symbols anywhere on the reels, which gives you 10 spins. During the round, you'll collect any lantern symbols that land on reel 5. Once you reach a certain threshold (3, 6 and 9), it triggers a wild bonus symbol, including Stacked HellHound Wilds, Stacked Jack O'Lantern Wild or the Expanding Death Reaper Wild for bigger wins.

Are you ready to play? Then pick a NetEnt casino and sign up to score a bonus, and start spinning this spooky Halloween number.

News and Analysis

Connecticut Online Gambling Is Live

After the successful soft launch of online gambling in Connecticut last week, online sportsbooks and casinos now operate without restricted hours or membership numbers. The three online gambling sites to go live are DraftKings, FanDuel and SugarHouse Casino. The platforms are open to players in the state and over 21.

Design Works Gaming Gets PA and MI Licensing

Casino content developer Design Works Gaming has gained supplier licensing from both the PGCB and MIGCB this week. The studio's games will first go live at Golden Nugget and Resorts Casinos simultaneously. The provider is already licensed in NJ.

Online Gaming Driving Revenue Growth in PA

iGaming revenue in PA is sky-rocketing, up 71.5% from September 2020. The most popular online casinos in the state by revenue are Hollywood Casino and BetRivers Casino.

PlayUp Receives Operator License in NJ

Australian fantasy and sports betting operator PlayUp has received an operator license from the NJDGE this week, and it seems to be just the beginning of their plans for the US market.

PlayUp will also look at expanding into the US online gaming market in due course.

Slot Game of the Week

Gonzo’s Gold New Slot. NetEnt. RTP: 96.11%.

Gonzo's Quest is one of the most popular online slots ever. Created by NetEnt and released over a decade ago in 2011, Gonzo's Quest is the historic slot tale of Spain explorer Gonzalo Pizarro as he adventures across Aztec lands and searches for El Dorado.

Gonzo's Gold brings all the magic back and is set on five reels with a Cluster Pay mechanic and max prizes up to 6,500x your bet. The bonus round is free spins with expanding symbols, and the scatters sub, filling in for wilds!

Are you ready to take Gonzo to whole new levels? Then start spinning this slot at any of our top-rated NetEnt Casinos from $0.10-100.

Casino Cabbie Weekly Digest #59

News and Analysis

Evolution Gaming Strikes Supplier Deal with Betway

Betway Casino is one of the newest online gaming operators to receive licensing and launch in NJ and PA. This week the operator has increased their games offering by striking a deal with Evolution Gaming, which will see the studio's live casino and first-person titles feature at Betway Casinos.

Connecticut Goes Live with Online Gambling Soft Launch

It's been a big week for operators in CT as that state's online gambling soft launch went ahead on the 12th. Three operators (FanDuel, DraftKings, and PlaySugarHouse) have opened their doors launching sports betting services (casino verticals to follow after the soft launch period). For the soft launch, operators have limited hours and numbers of players.

According to Connecticut's Department of Consumer Protection, "As long as no issues arise, we have told the licensees they may move forward with the seven-day soft launch required in the regulations. Once the soft launch is complete, online gaming will open state-wide."

We'll bring you more news from Connecticut as soon as online casino games are available!

Slot Game of the Week

Legends of the Tombs. High 5 Games. RTP: 96%.

Venture into the pyramids and get ready to face ancient gods in this powerful Egyptian spinner from High 5 Games. Newly released, this slot boasts 75 lines, bets from $0.20-400, and is a medium volatility game.

The 6 reels are formed in a grid shape with a 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 3 formation. Symbols include a female explorer, who pays the most at 300x your bet for 6 symbols (this game pays for 3-6 symbols lines), Horus and Anubis, and lower-paying A-J.

The game also comes with wild substitutions, which can appear on reels 2-5 and expand. However, if you're looking for the biggest wins, then you'll want to make your way to the bonus round. To do this, you'll need 3+ scatter symbols, landing anywhere on the reels. The scatter awards one spin of a bonus wheel which will reveal either a coin payout or free spins, which deliver more expanding wilds to increase the win potential!

Ready to play? Then check out Legend of the Tombs at these online High 5 Casinos.