Eyeofngt
12-10-2008, 01:18 AM
LAS VEGAS, Nevada -- Attention "Star Trek" nerds: engage at warp speed or beam yourselves to Harrah's Entertainment casinos in Las Vegas. The company is rolling out "Star Trek"-themed slot machines built by WMS Industries.
The equipment manufacturer unveiled the games at last month's Global Gaming Expo. The machines are based on the iconic 1960s television series and feature video snippets from the original 79 episodes.
The placement, estimated at 120 machines, was a significant step for WMS.
Deutsche Bank gaming analyst Bill Lerner, however, thought the move might signal a loosening of Harrah's opposition to participation games, which have casino operators share gaming revenues with the slot machine manufacturers.
Harrah's removed hundreds of participation slot machines from its Las Vegas casinos his year, including "Wheel of Fortune" games operated with International Game Technology. Harrah's executives wanted to change the revenue share percentages with slot makers.
"It is our view that unique gaming technology and content will find a way onto casino floors irrespective of economic environment," Lerner said.
The equipment manufacturer unveiled the games at last month's Global Gaming Expo. The machines are based on the iconic 1960s television series and feature video snippets from the original 79 episodes.
The placement, estimated at 120 machines, was a significant step for WMS.
Deutsche Bank gaming analyst Bill Lerner, however, thought the move might signal a loosening of Harrah's opposition to participation games, which have casino operators share gaming revenues with the slot machine manufacturers.
Harrah's removed hundreds of participation slot machines from its Las Vegas casinos his year, including "Wheel of Fortune" games operated with International Game Technology. Harrah's executives wanted to change the revenue share percentages with slot makers.
"It is our view that unique gaming technology and content will find a way onto casino floors irrespective of economic environment," Lerner said.