‘Skilled’ gambling machines debut at Foxwoods

May 22, 201

The new video game gambling machine at Foxwoods

Patricia Daddona

Foxwoods Resort Casino has introduced skill-based video game gambling machines in partnership with New York City-based GameCo. Inc., the two companies said Monday.

The new machines — the first in Connecticut — feature the games “Pharoah’s Secret Temple” and “Nothin’ but Net.” Located on two carousels in high-traffic locations at the Mashantucket casino, the six gaming machines are designed to appeal to casual gamers, sports fans and slot players.

“Skill-based slot machine technology is the next generation of gaming, and we welcome this addition to our already industry-leading resort casino experience,” Felix Rappaport, Foxwoods CEO, said in a statement.

Rappaport is making good on intentions expressed last fall to cater some of its games to millennials and make gaming more interactive.

GameCo. Inc. is targeting approximately 23 million gamers in the U.S. Customers typically are over 21, represent the top percentile of household income, and are already visiting casinos, said Blaine Graboyes, co-founder and CEO of GameCo.

GameCo is undertaking a major nationwide roll-out, with plans to be operational in most major U.S. gambling jurisdictions by the end of 2017. The first gaming machines debuted in Atlantic City casinos in late 2016.