Casino Eliminates 169 Slot Machines, Accuses Skill Games for Decline in Profits
Impact of Skill Games on Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course
The growth of skill games in Pennsylvania has sparked significant changes at the Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course, a major licensed gambling venue in the state.
Since May this year, the casino has requested changes to its gaming operations, including the removal of slots, a move attributed to the proliferation of skill games. The Pennsylvania Gambling Control Board (PGCB) approved this request, but stipulated that the casino must coordinate with the Bureau of Gaming Operations and Bureau of Casino Compliance by submitting an updated slots list.
The removal has resulted in a reduction of 1,701 slots to 1,532, representing a 9.94% decrease. Interestingly, 510 of the remaining slots will be located in the smoking section.
The casino has also presented evidence on August 21, showing that skill games have impacted slots occupancy. With over 77 locations within a 10-mile radius of Hollywood Casino having more than 325 skill games, it's clear that these electronic gaming machines, which require player skill to win, are drawing away players and revenue from traditional slot machines.
The casino has not been silent on the issue, reproducing a statement from the Pennsylvania Horeseman's Benevolent and Protective Association (PAHBA) expressing concern about unregulated skill games that have proliferated across the Commonwealth. The PAHBA joins the casino in its concerns, adding weight to the call for regulation.
Ramona Depares, a journalist with 15+ years of experience in entertainment, lifestyle, and online gaming news, has been closely following the developments at Hollywood Casino. Depares, who previously held the position of head of media for one of the biggest organizers of gaming conferences, has insight into staying ahead of the curve of online casino and sports betting trends.
Despite the challenges posed by skill games, Hollywood Casino remains a significant player in Pennsylvania's gambling industry. The casino is also one of the owners of PA online casinos, indicating its commitment to adapting to the changing landscape of gambling in the state.
The outcome of the ongoing legal rulings and state regulatory frameworks will significantly impact Hollywood Casino and other gambling venues in Pennsylvania. As the state moves towards regulating and taxing skill games, the playing field may become more level, potentially benefiting licensed casinos by reducing illegal competition and generating state revenue.
For more updates on Hollywood Casino and the gambling industry in Pennsylvania, follow Ramona Depares at Url copied! and Read Full Bio.
[1] Source 1 [2] Source 2 [3] Source 3 [4] Source 4
- Despite the removal of slots, the Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course continues to adapt to the increasing popularity of skill games, such as casino-games-and-casino-slots, drawing players' attention and revenue.
- The Pennsylvania Gambling Control Board's upcoming decisions on the regulation and taxation of casino-games and casino-gambling, like skill games and slots, will significantly influence the future of Hollywood Casino and other gaming venues in the state.
