Best Multi-Player Game
Operators in key Asian markets such as Macau, Korea and now Singapore are juggling with the issue of how to maintain profitability in table gaming when faced with high local labour costs relative to the neighbouring markets from where they draw their custom.
It seems unlikely (for the time being) that automated or semiautomated multi-player games can be used to build profitability in the high volume but generally low margin Asian VIP baccarat market, given that segment’s general dependence on middle men to bring in players.
Multi-players are, however, a key component in the mass segment. There are a number of reasons for this. First, they can be used to draw in new customers—especially less seasoned baccarat, sic bo or roulette players who wish to learn the games. Second, they can offer players bet combinations not available or hard to calculate in traditional table gaming, such as ante bets on sic bo or side bets on baccarat. Third, they can provide instant calculations on results and commissions that prevent revenue leakage for the operator. Fourth, and by no means unluckily, they can improve operator margins either by removing the need for a well paid dealer, or by offering a hybrid system that can be switched from automatic play at quieter times to dealer- or attendant-supervised play during busy ones.
| Nominees | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Title |
| Aruze | Lucky Sic Bo |
| Elaut | Roulette & Sicbo |
| Jumbo Technology | Sic Bo |
| Royce and Bach | Roulette |
Winner: Aruze – Lucky Sic Bo
The judges praised the wide appeal of Aruze’s Lucky Sic Bo, with its ability to draw in seasoned sic bo players and newcomers alike.
It features a high-impact display designed to be seen easily across the floor. A 32-inch wide, high-resolution LCD screen prominently displays the progressive amounts, game results and past data.
The display acts as a quick ‘educational’ for novice players and helps to draw in those already familiar with sic bo as a game.
The centre unit of Aruze’s Lucky Sic Bo features large (3.5 inch) dice and a light-based presentation on the unit corresponds with the action of the game.
Each station unit offers ample foot room and emphasises ease of play with a 22-inch wide LCD game screen and a monitor angle that allows easy recognition from any play position. The touch panel offers comfortable and precise control.
Honourable Mention: Royce and Bach – Roulette
Royce & Bach’s electronic roulette products entered Asian markets in July 2007 with the deployment of three multiplayer roulette stations to Holiday Casino group in Cambodia. Since then, its products have been introduced successfully into a range of markets including the Philippines, Vietnam and Macau. As a result, the brand has earned a well-deserved reputation for player excitement, high quality build, software stability and excellent support via its local representatives.
