The Global Gaming Expo (G2E), the world’s largest gaming industry trade show, is set to take place next week at The Venetian Expo, marking a significant milestone for International Game Technology (IGT) as it returns to its Las Vegas roots for the first time since 2015.
As a key player in the gaming industry, IGT’s presence at G2E is magnified by its Las Vegas-based headquarters following its acquisition by Apollo Global Management earlier this year, culminating in the company’s successful re-establishment in Southern Nevada.
The 25th running of G2E will showcase an array of products from around 400 exhibitors, with a strong emphasis on slot machines and gaming systems, which form the backbone of the event sponsored by the American Gaming Association.
Moreover, attendees can look forward to over 100 educational sessions featuring around 330 speakers, including notable figures such as MGM Resorts International President and CEO Bill Hornbuckle and AGA President and CEO Bill Miller, who will provide updates on the current state of the casino industry.
As the exhibit hall fills with dazzling displays, IGT plans to make a grand statement with its largest booth on the trade show floor, celebrating its homecoming with a special ceremony and unveiling its innovative new product, the Wheel of Fortune Cash Machine, on the second day of the event.
The Wheel of Fortune Cash Machine, a combination of IGT’s classic Wheel of Fortune games and Everi Holdings’ successful Cash Machine brand, will be showcased inside an impressive 11-foot MegaTower Rise cabinet, offering attendees an exclusive first look before its market release next year.
Acting CEO Nick Khin expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity presented by the merger with Everi, stating, “We wanted to surprise our customers with a kind of a different look and feel at the booth.”
In addition to the Wheel of Fortune Cash Machine, IGT will display a total of 251 slot machines at its booth, along with an extensive selection of video poker, electronic table games, and fintech products designed to capture the attention of gaming enthusiasts.
The event is also an opportunity for Light & Wonder, another prominent exhibitor, to present its latest innovations, including the LightWave cabinet that blends slot screens with dynamic signage, creating a visually stunning experience for players.
Ryan Scott, vice president of commercial strategy for slots, remarked on the importance of the new display, stating it has the potential to transform casino floor aesthetics by providing immersive experiences that engage players.
Light & Wonder will feature its new LightWave cabinet with popular games such as Frankenstein, and plans to roll out additional titles like Jackpot Party and Dancing Drums in the near future.
Furthermore, Aristocrat Gaming is set to unveil new innovations in its popular Monopoly franchise, while Konami Gaming will showcase a range of new games and dedicated spaces for its business segments, including land-based games and historical horse racing.
Despite G2E serving as a premier platform for gaming innovations, the AGA has faced criticism regarding its stance on controversial topics such as prediction markets and unlicensed sports wagering. Discussions related to regulatory issues surrounding companies like KalshiEx LLC and Robinhood are expected to surface during the educational sessions.
A notable addition to this year’s G2E is the inaugural U.S. Dealer Competition, where the best blackjack and roulette dealers from more than 30 commercial and tribal casinos will compete. The competition will focus on evaluating dealers based on their technical skills, hospitality, and ability to control the game, highlighting the importance of personnel in the gaming experience.
As G2E gears up for what promises to be an exciting and impactful event, the return of IGT to Las Vegas adds a sense of nostalgia and anticipation for industry professionals eager to explore advancements in gaming technology and network with peers.
With over 25,000 industry professionals expected to attend, the Global Gaming Expo will not only showcase the glitz and glamour of gaming but also provide vital insights and discussion opportunities that shape the future of the casino industry.
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