Gambling in the USA
“2021 was a true gamechanger for us” – exclusive interview with Head of Amelco USA, Brandon Walker, on innovation in the US
The US market is experiencing unprecedented levels of investment, and Amelco is at the forefront of this exciting period of growth. Brandon Walker, Head of Amelco USA, gives us some insight into the opportunities that are presenting themselves and how his company is set to capitalize.
As we near four years since the repeal of PASPA, just how far has the US market come towards taking the crown as the world’s most exciting hub for online betting and iGaming?
There has been massive growth in the US – it is the area where we are seeing the most hype and the most investment, at present. This isn’t to say that the rest of the world isn’t also performing well – iGaming and sports betting is thriving internationally. The past 18 months has really showcased the industry’s flare for innovation, it’s been an impressive demonstration of what’s been possible, and this is what has fuelled so much growth. The cream always rises to the top and while major players will take the market share, this gives space for the younger firms to carve out their niche. One of the most exciting aspects of the US situation is that it varies state by state – it’s been thrilling to flex our muscles by tailoring our offering to each state. Naturally, many things are the same but it’s a great challenge to establish a unique presence in each particular territory.
Talk us through Amelco’s expansion across the US – what’s been key for you so far?
Last year saw an unprecedented level of growth for Amelco – we took on some really big tier one clients. We rolled out across some major states, including Arizona, Florida, Michigan, Iowa, and Wyoming. During this period of growth, what has really set us apart is our platform – it’s the most comprehensive omni-channel offering on the market, providing a single app that can be used across multiple states. 2021’s been a true gamechanger for us and has really sets us apart.
With 2021 marking a record number of states coming online for the first time, which states do you believe have proven key to the US market’s growth?
New Jersey takes the crown – this state has been the frontrunner for a while. Pennsylvania is another, as well as Michigan. The main reason these states have thrived is that they have found a way to effectively offer iGaming alongside sports betting, which certainly benefits growth. It allows players to twin their favourite sports with that Vegas experience from their homes, and this really complements the sportsbook.
How much do you see online casino expanding in tandem with sports betting? How much do US player habits differ from their European counterparts?
Regulation is the key factor – it will be slower in terms of uptake than sports but it’s only a matter of time for most states to add the casino experience to the sports betting offering. It makes no sense not to. Effectively, we’re at a tipping point for adoption as more and more start to offer it – further states will join the fold sooner or later. Of course, lobbying from the land-based sector plays its part, this will ultimately become more mainstream alongside sports betting, as the US heritage and love for the casino experience makes it an inevitability.
Looking at markets, the US is very heavy on singles bets and parlays will have much more uptake in the US as the ‘bet low, win high’ experience appeals to the recreational punter. For example, laying a 10-dollar bet on who’s going to win out of five games is based purely on emotion and love for their team, and this passion for the sport adds that extra dynamic to their entertainment. From our data, we’re seeing that’s how the majority of US sports fans get into betting – it’s part of the cultural fabric and offers a big win. When it comes to casino, poker still remains a growth opportunity and has seen something of an uptick but it’s still niche. Live dealer games are massively popular and will continue to be – of course, slots from an iGaming perspective are always going to be dominant given the land-based heritage they are associated with. After all, the US is and always be the true home of casino.
How key is a full-service platform to differentiating tier one suppliers to those who simply offer sportsbook?
It makes a massive difference, with a platform, you’ve got one full ecosystem managed by one software provider. The benefits are numerous – a full-service platform reduces risk and offers one full system working cohesively, which can work multiple tech and platforms. Additionally, it is much more cost efficient – using multiple suppliers to run one operation/app is always going to cost more.
Where has Amelco got its eye on for the year ahead? How much potential do you see in New York state now that it’s issued its first licences?
There are a handful of states that we have identified as being particularly ripe with potential; we’ve got our eye on California – we’ve got plenty of confidence in that being massive, so we are going to devote plenty of focus to that. Maryland is another, and Arkansas will be live soon enough. Arkansas especially as plenty of potential for online, with only three to four land-based casinos: while I can’t say too much just yet, Amelco will be the first to go live there, and that is testament to the leading position we’ve created for ourselves stateside.
Last but not least, with March Madness and the US Super Bowl fast approaching, what predictions can you share with our readers for betting activity?
There are so many states now online that 2022’s major spring events have got every potential to be the biggest ever in both engagement and turnover. The number of additional states that will eventually add to that means year-on-year growth is effectively inevitable every year for the foreseeable future! Parlays will continue to be a huge growth space, and this year’s Super Bowl, which will inevitably centre around Tom Brady, is sure to be a monumental event. I’m sure there will be plenty of predictions around that, as Brady’s former team, the Patriots, are set to play against his current one, the Buccaneers.
Gambling in the USA
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View a video version of this story
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The hottest new game from Aristocrat Gaming, Phoenix Link, is now live on casino floors, with Yaamava’ Resort & Casino being the first in North America to offer the highly-anticipated game. As the next evolution of the international hit game, Dragon Link, Phoenix Link features player-favorite mechanics from top games with all-new themes, features, and bonuses.
“We have been humbled by the incredible global fanfare Dragon Link has received over the years but are never ones to rest on our laurels. The teams have been working tirelessly on a follow-up that brings together all the player-favorite elements in a new and exciting way with Phoenix Link as the proud result. We were thrilled to partner with Yaamava’ to premiere Phoenix Link with flair, excitement, and celebration,” said Victor Duarte, executive vice president of product for Aristocrat Gaming.
Phoenix Link players will enjoy the game’s additional denominations, configurations, and jackpots on each of the launch game theme titles. Gameplay features include Hold & Spin, Free Games with multiplier wilds or twin spin reels, Phoenix Mystery trigger, and more new bonus twists. Phoenix Link is available on the Neptune Single cabinet.
“Yaamava’ is thrilled to host yet another world premiere in gaming with the launch of Phoenix Link by Aristocrat Gaming. Our Club Serrano members are already raving about this captivating extension of the player-favorite Dragon Link. It’s a great addition to the Yaamava’ gaming floor,” said Kenji Hall, General Manager of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel, said.
Gambling in the USA
NOVOMATIC shines at G2E 2024: A street smart showcase of innovation and engagement
In line with its commitment to innovation, NOVOMATIC unveiled several ground breaking product launches that left a significant impact on the gaming industry. The V.I.P. X™ cabinet series emerged as one of the main attractions, highlighting models such as the V.I.P. X Royal™ 1.85, V.I.P. X Dream™ 3.43, and the V.I.P. X Lounge™ 2.32. The crown jewel of the presentation was the V.I.P. Galaxy™ 2.65, setting a new benchmark for luxury cabinets with its perfect blend of comfort and state-of-the-art gaming technology. Featuring high-definition screens and immersive sound systems, the fully adjustable lounge design promises an unparalleled gaming experience, leaving customers eager to introduce these innovations onto their gaming floors.
The unveiling of a new LED wall as part of the DIAMOND X™ series, including the DIAMOND X™ 1.55J, showcased the U.S.-style designed Piggy Prizes title. The modern and interactive design sent a clear message: NOVOMATIC Americas has fully arrived, enhancing its reputation for premium entertainment experiences.
Groundbreaking Progressives and a Robust VGT Lineup
NOVOMATIC introduced a variety of THUNDER CASH™ GOLD Progressives featuring new titles like Charming Lady’s Boom Coins™ and Red Amazon Explosion™. The Globe Link™ Xtension Volume 1 & 2 also attracted considerable interest, marking a significant impact with several new themes. The excitement surrounding these progressive games was palpable, bolstered by innovative math models and enticing bonus structures.
The VGT product range received special emphasis, particularly with the Street-Smart-themed area dedicated to highlight the themes and flexible assortment of cabinet styles for markets in Illinois, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Puerto Rico, and Georgia. This dynamic showcase reinforced NOVOMATIC’s commitment to providing leading solutions in performance and player appeal within the VGT sector. Featuring both NOVOLINE™ and Magic HD customer favorite themes, this area showed the new game mixes on DIAMOND X™ 2.32, BLACK EDITION II 3.27 & BLACK EDITION II 1.49J, V.I.P. X Lounge™ 2.32 and FUNMASTER 2.27. Specifically in Illinois, featuring the Magic HD game mix consisting of the Overlay Magic Play Lock & Spin feature, and the new Poker3™ multi-hand video poker mix. NOVOLINE™ games were shown on the Black Edition II 1.49J cabinet with popular games like ULTRA BOOST™ and Money Party™ themes. Georgia Skill showed three new game titles in the Magic HD mix while more new titles lined the streets of the NOVOMATIC booth.
Advancements in Sports Betting and Casino Management
In addition to its product line, NOVOMATIC showed their cutting-edge sports betting kiosks including the ActionBook™ Edge 1.43J, and ActionBook™ Plus 2.27 models. With advanced graphics and rapid processing capabilities, these kiosks offer operators unmatched flexibility and performance. The premiere of the award-winning NOVOVISION™ casino management system was another highlight, leveraging biometric technology for enhanced player recognition and streamlined operations. Already acknowledged as a ‘Best CMS/Software Product’ at the European Casino Awards, this system generated significant buzz regarding its potential to revolutionize the gaming landscape.
Industry Recognition for Creative and Commercial Success
The combination of NOVOMATIC’s innovative product launches and captivating booth design earned widespread acclaim. The company was recognized for its Street-Smart booth, praised for creativity, interactivity, and the memorable experiences it fostered. Industry experts and attendees alike hailed NOVOMATIC’s presence at G2E 2024 as one of the most impactful.
Alexander Merwald, CEO at NOVOMATIC Americas, stated, “G2E 2024 was an incredible success for NOVOMATIC. We were proud to showcase the V.I.P. X™ cabinet series – Our ‘Street Games, Street Smart’ focus resonated strongly, as we demonstrated how our tailored solutions meet the real-world needs of both casino and VGT operators. The response from customers reaffirmed NOVOMATIC’s position as a leader in delivering innovation, performance, and market-specific strategies for North America.”
Thomas Schmalzer, VP of Global Sales, and Product Management at NOVOMATIC AG, added, “The product diversity and innovation showcased at G2E 2024 have been enthusiastically received by both operators and players. Our V.I.P. X™ series and extensive range of progressives reflect our unwavering commitment to delivering premium solutions to the global market.”
With new partnerships established and product placements secured at G2E 2024, NOVOMATIC is primed to expand its market presence across North America. The success at this year’s expo signifies a vital step forward in the company’s mission to set the standard for gaming entertainment.
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