Gambling in the USA
Playtech and Scientific Games Strike Global Distribution Partnership

Scientific Games Corporation has signed a mutual distribution agreement with world-leading gambling technology company Playtech plc.
This new partnership, featuring two of the industry’s biggest companies, will enable Scientific Games and Playtech to mutually benefit from each other’s scale and reach across the U.S. in addition to regulated markets in Latin America and Central, Eastern and Western Europe.
Playtech’s software will be available to operators via the Open Gaming System (OGS). The agreement covers the breadth of Playtech’s industry leading Casino offering, including its portfolio of slots, table games and Live Casino entertainment, which will all be integrated with Scientific Games’ features and promotions set. Playtech’s game content will be rolled out through the OGS initially in New Jersey with more states to follow.
Scientific Games’ OpenGaming™ proposition continues to go from strength-to-strength following this latest partnership. The Company has built one of the world’s largest iGaming aggregation platforms, with over 2,500 games consisting of in-house developed titles and content from a wide range of third-party studios. It also offers features such as jackpots, free-rounds, missions and tournaments, all of which contain responsible gambling tools for players to easily access during gameplay.
Shimon Akad, COO, at Playtech, said, “This is an exciting deal featuring two of the industry’s biggest names that is set to have a major impact on iGaming across the globe. A key pillar of our strategy is to increase the distribution of our software through mutually beneficial partnerships with the leading B2B suppliers in the leading markets, alongside increasing the depth of the content and services we offer to our existing customers. This partnership will significantly increase SG’s distribution to regulated markets in LATAM and Europe whilst also providing our customers in those markets with an even richer portfolio of exciting iGaming content. Playtech looks forward to benefiting from SG’s leadership in the U.S. as we look to roll out Playtech casino software in all regulated states.”
Jordan Levin, Group CEO, Digital at Scientific Games, said, “Together with Playtech, we’ll bring quality and exciting gaming content to the U.S. market and beyond. This latest partnership once again demonstrates the key role that OpenGaming plays in opening new opportunities for gaming providers to extend their footprint within key regulated markets. We’re very excited to be bringing Playtech’s world-renowned games to our operating partners across the globe and providing their player base with exceptional entertainment experiences.”
Gambling in the USA
California Gambling Control Commission Advances Licensing, Tribal Partnerships, and Responsible Gaming Initiatives

Sacramento, CA — In a meeting packed with regulatory updates and licensing decisions, the California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) convened on April 24 to advance numerous agenda items impacting the state’s gambling landscape—from tribal gaming approvals to responsible gambling programs and operator renewals.
Problem Gambling & Public Health Takes the Stage
The Commission meeting opened with a presentation by Sosha Marasigan-Quintero from the California Department of Public Health, offering an overview and update on the California Problem Gambling Treatment Services Program. While no specific staff recommendations were provided, the update underscores California’s continued focus on behavioral health in gambling.
Tribal Revenue Distribution Approved
The Commission approved the quarterly distribution of payments from the Revenue Sharing Trust Fund to eligible recipient Indian Tribes. This routine, yet vital, procedure ensures the equitable distribution of revenue to support tribal sovereignty and infrastructure across the state.
Cardroom Licensing: Approvals and Extensions
Among key licensing matters:
-
500 Club Casino (K & M Casinos, Inc.) received both initial and renewal owner-type license approvals through January 2027.
-
Casino Chico, Hollywood Park Casino, and Lake Bowl Cardroom were granted renewals and short-term extensions, some with conditions such as improving record-keeping systems or ensuring regulatory compliance ahead of reopening.
-
Hotel Del Rio & Casino was granted a 60-day extension under several strict conditions, including updated safety plans and the restatement of commingled financial records.
Key Employee Licensing Actions
The Commission approved several initial and renewal key employee licenses. Notably:
-
Jeffrey Thompson was approved with a condition prohibiting involvement in illegal gambling activities.
-
Kevin Lee and George Rahme received 120-day extensions for renewal processing.
Third-Party Proposition Player Services Under Scrutiny
The Commission approved both initial and temporary licenses for Fortune Players Group, Inc., with a lengthy list of conditions tied to the conduct of a former associate, Rene Medina. These conditions highlight the Commission’s ongoing vigilance in monitoring third-party player services and maintaining compliance across operations.
Progressive Gaming, LLC was also approved for an initial license, further expanding third-party service provider capacity.
Gaming Resource Suppliers & Tribal Approvals
Initial suitability findings for several prominent tribal gaming resource suppliers were approved, including:
-
HCAL, LLC
-
JCM Global
-
Konami Gaming, Inc.
-
PDS Gaming, LLC
Dozens of tribal gaming employees were also approved for key positions at tribal casinos across California, reflecting the Commission’s continued support of tribal gaming operations and the necessary workforce to support it.
Notable Withdrawals and Denials
In two notable cases, requests to withdraw license applications—Josephine Hoang and Jesus Bojorquez—were denied, signaling the Commission’s increased scrutiny and emphasis on applicant accountability.
A Broader Look Ahead
With regulatory reform on the horizon and ongoing efforts to promote responsible gaming, the April 2025 CGCC meeting showcased a mix of routine license management and deeper engagement with emerging compliance issues. As the Commission prepares for the next quarter, the groundwork laid in this session will likely influence policy developments and enforcement trends across California’s gambling sector.
Gambling in the USA
NEW YORK CASINO IN MEXICO WELCOMES CONCEPT AND NEW GAMES FROM ZITRO

The renowned Mexican operator Logrand has installed Zitro’s new CONCEPT cabinets and a selection of its latest games at the New York Casino in Monterrey.
Building on its global success, the CONCEPT cabinet line stands out for its Magic Lighting, immersing players in a synchronized light display, resulting in a unique sensory experience. Furthermore, the cabinet’s large Screen Deck blends comfort with intuitive functionality, optimizing the experience for players and operational teams.
The installation of the CONCEPT cabinets is complemented by the addition of the medieval-themed multi-game Legendary Sword, in which players can double their prizes through unique mechanics with the help of a magic sword.
On the other hand, Fairyland Quest takes players to an enchanted forest where Magic Mushrooms give access to a different bonus each, while a friendly Fairy will give a special bonus that doubles the playing area.
Juan David Baracaldo, Director of Operations and Product, highlighted: “The addition of Zitro’s CONCEPT cabinets is a great step to continue offering unique and high-quality experiences to our players. The unique combination of technology, spectacular graphics, and the experience these cabinets offer will further elevate our casino’s entertainment offering.”
For his part, Johnny Ortiz Viveiros, founder of Zitro, expressed: “We are very excited to strengthen our partnership with Logrand, a strategic partner that shares our vision of providing exceptional gaming experiences. The new CONCEPT cabinets and games like Legendary Sword and Fairyland Quest are just the beginning of what will transform how players enjoy entertainment.”
Gambling in the USA
Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack

Sky River Casino has announced that an Elk Grove resident has won a whopping $511,311 while playing progressive blackjack on March 31, 2025. The Sky River Rewards member hit the big win after playing the table game for less than an hour.
“Our progressive table games and slot machines continue to be really hot here at Sky River Casino. Our players have had an impressive number of life-changing jackpots and our winning streak continues. We look forward to the next big win and welcome adults near and far to visit to explore and enjoy our high-energy atmosphere, lively promotions, exciting gaming, and unparalleled dining experiences,” said Michael J. Facenda, President of Sky River Casino.
The lucky local guest plans to use her winnings to renovate a kitchen and build a house back home.
“Without question, the best part of my job is watching our valued members and guests experience jaw dropping wins like this one. We all share in the incredible excitement that is absolutely contagious and can be felt throughout the casino,” said Charleen Ripley, VP of Casino Operations for Sky River Casino.
-
Latest News4 days ago
AGS Appoints Arthur Rotziokos and Richard Orozco to Lead International Growth Efforts
-
Latest News4 days ago
HARRAH’S RESORT ATLANTIC CITY WELCOMES BACK THE WORLD SERIES OF POKER® FOR A WSOP CIRCUIT STOP THIS AUGUST
-
Arizona4 days ago
Arizona Department of Gaming Issues Multiple Cease-and-Desists
-
Latest News4 days ago
ACR POKER LAUNCHES ‘MONEYMAKER MAY-HEM’, OFFERING PLAYERS A CHANCE TO JOIN CHRIS MONEYMAKER IN LAS VEGAS FOR $10K MAIN EVENT
-
Latin America4 days ago
Mexico Gambling Market to Hit Valuation of US$ 40.64 Billion By 2033 | Astute Analytica
-
Compliance Updates3 days ago
Altenar gains ground in Brazil with virtual sports certification
-
Latest News2 days ago
Churchill Downs Incorporated Reports 2025 First Quarter Results
-
Latest News2 days ago
Tachi Palace Casino trusts Continent 8 to bolster its cybersecurity through advanced managed SOC and SIEM solutions