G'day Yankies, Aussies, punters, casino and gambling millionaires, billionaires, legal eagles, politicians - one and all. The Australian VS American casino wars escalate once again. While many details of America's IGT (International Gaming Technology) VS Australia's Aristocrat Leisure legal situation remain sketchy, both companies remain in the spotlight, domestically and internationally, and remarkably Aristocrat's shares have continued to climb in the past few days. 'The Crat' is also gearing up for a massive national and international gaming expo itinerary, that should see them power ahead, if they can hold off potentially very expensive legal proceedings. Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com and Gambling911 continue to apply the probe to Aristocrat and IGT, with just a dash of Party and WMS for good measure...
Background On IGT And Aristocrat Leisure...
Readers will likely be family with both companies. IGT is widely considered the original and the best, and in recent years has expanded their online gaming arm known WagerWorks. Many of the world's leading online casinos such as PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Richard Branson's Virgin Casino carry the WagerWorks online games. Some of the most popular titles include Cleopatra, Monopoly, Wheel Of Fortune, Double Diamond, Elvis, Battle Ship and Da Vinci Diamonds, with Cleo holding the world's most popular online and offline slot of all time.
The gambling and gaming industry is known for its copy cats, trademark infringements and massive law suits, with "legal eagles" know to be very fond of the sector and its substantial payout jackpots!
This lawsuit situation between IGT and Aristocrat follows a long line of legal actions in gambling including PartyGaming VS WMS, Marvel Entertainment VS Cryptologic, Michael Jackson Estate VS "Michael Jackson Casino", Majestic Star Casino LLC VS "Majestic Star Casino" (online) and Vegas Pinnacle Entertainment VS Eskay SEO ("Belterra Casino Indiana")
Media Man's http://www.mediamanint.com Greg Tingle offered the following "The latest lawsuit from IGT against Australia's Aristocrat Leisure is not a surprise in my opinion. It's been a long time coming, with both parties being able to come to a mutually beneficial settlement to date. IGT is largely considered the world's most successful gaming machine manufacture, and some would say the original and best, of the modern era. Australia's Aristocrat has come under some substantial financial pressure in recent years, and this lawsuit action may very well add to this. The land based and online gambling community, legal and government sectors will be watching this one closely. My money is on IGT to win, but stranger things have happened. May the best brand win."
Press Release...
LAS VEGAS, Nov. 15, 2010
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) today announced the filing of a patent infringement lawsuit against Aristocrat Leisure Limited of Australia and its U.S. Affiliate Aristocrat Technologies, Inc., (collectively "Aristocrat") in connection with the sale and distribution of Aristocrat's gaming devices, including particularly Aristocrat's Viridian WS slot machines. The lawsuit comes after failed attempts to resolve the IP disputes between Aristocrat and IGT.
The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. In the suit, IGT asserts that Aristocrat has willfully infringed and continues to infringe two patents directed to fundamental capabilities for authentication of gaming software:
U.S. Patent 6,620,047 entitled "Electronic Gaming Apparatus Having Authentication Data Sets"; and U.S. Patent No. RE 39,370 entitled "Electronic Casino Gaming System with Improved Play Capacity, Authentication and Security." "We filed this case because IGT's intellectual property is being knowingly and unfairly exploited by Aristocrat," said Robert C. Melendres, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at IGT. "IGT is the world's leading innovator and creator of intellectual property in the gaming industry."
About IGT
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) is a global leader in the design, development, and manufacture of gaming machines and systems products, as well as online and mobile gaming solutions for regulated markets. SOURCE IGT
Share Prices: IGT VS Aristocrat (19th January 2011)...
International Gaming Technology
IGT: NYSE: IGT $18.75 USD -0.05 (-0.27%)
Aristocrat Leisure: 3.040: ASX (Australia Securities Exchange)
WMS: NYSE: $46.45; Change is 0.71 (1.51%)
Australian Gaming Shares Pick Of The Bunch: Aristocrat Leisure! (Hell Freezes Over)..
The best performing stock in the S&P/ASX200 was Aristocrat Leisure shares advanced 3.33% to close at $3.10.
Aristocrat Technologies Australia To Hit National And International Trade Show Circuit Big Time This Year; Positive Exposure May Boost Sales And Positive Buzz...
Trade Show - Date - Venue...
IGE 25 Jan 11 - 27 Jan 11 Earls Court, London, UK
Club Managers Association Australia (CMAA) Trade Show 28 Feb 11 - 02 Mar 11 Sydney, NSW, Australia
Hospitality & Gaming Australiasia (HGA) show 16 Mar 11 - 17 Mar 11 Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) 03 Apr 11 - 06 Apr 11 San Diego, CA, USA
Southern Gaming Summit 04 May 11 - 05 May 11 Biloxi, MS, USA
Great Plains Indian Gaming Show 16 May 11 - 18 May 11 Mystic Lake, Minnesota
Gaming Technology Summit 24 May 11 - 25 May 11 Henderson, NV, Las Vegas
G2E Asia 07 Jun 11 - 09 Jun 11 The Venetian, Macau
SAGSE – Panama City 22 Jun 11 - 23 Jun 11 Panama City, Panama
Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE) 21 Aug 11 - 23 Aug 11 Sydney, NSW, Australia
Oasis Summit 07 Sep 11 - 09 Sep 11 Las Vegas, Nevada
Global Gaming Expo (G2E) 04 Oct 11 - 06 Oct 11 Las Vegas, NV, USA
SAGSE - Buenos Aires 09 Nov 11 - 11 Nov 11 Buenos Aires, Argentina
TribalNet11 Conference 14 Nov 11 - 17 Nov 11 NV, USA
IGT Current News...
IGT to Showcase Future of Gaming at International Casino Exhibition (ICE) 2011 in London...
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), a global leader in creating the major games that players love and the casino network systems that improve the player experience, will display the latest groundbreaking casino games and network systems products, as well as innovative mobile and online offerings, at stand 3430 at the International Casino Exhibition (ICE) on Jan. 25-27, 2011. This year IGT will show how "It's a Whole New Game" by displaying a wide range of games for the casino floor and the interactive world at London's Earls Court Exhibition Centre.
"At ICE 2011, we are excited to show ICE attendees what makes IGT a world leader in gaming," said Craig Churchill, IGT's senior vice president of International Sales. "From the latest in slot floor technology to cutting-edge mobile and online products, IGT is dedicated to providing our international customers with the very best products and end-to-end networked gaming solutions to help them meet their operating objectives and deliver unparalleled player experiences."
IGT is known for delivering the most recognizable names in popular culture to the casino floor, and this year, the Company will display some of its biggest names yet. From an amazing Premium Products lineup, also known as MegaJackpots(R), to the new Core Player Affinity Suite, the big titles at ICE will confirm IGT's dedication to bringing thrilling moments to players.
Star Wars(TM) Droid(TM) Huntis set to become the most popular Star Wars casino game ever released. A well-researched understanding of what game elements excite players and a highly creative visual experience combine to deliver lively gaming action. The game comes complete with four galactic bonus rounds and a Premium Products top award.
The new Dirty Dancing(R) Slot features the iconic characters Baby and Johnny (played by Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey) in a game infused with nostalgia, famous songs and video clips. This Premium Products game includes a new Spin Magic feature that turns minor symbol outcomes into wilds.
At ICE 2011, IGT will be the center of attention with the show-stopping Center Stage Series. Offering operators the ability to refresh content with the latest high-impact games, the Center Stage Series will be on display, complete with incredible sound chairs, oversized screens, big bonuses and the biggest game titles for the casino floor.
Debuting on IGT's Center Stage lineup at ICE will be The Dark Knight(TM), which will be featured on the platform's 103-inch screen. Players can choose to play Batman or the Joker to immerse themselves in group and individual bonuses while enjoying the thematic film experience. Also joining the lineup will be American Idol(R) MultiPLAY video slots. This game delivers entertainment that is packed with action. The unique group play Audition Bonus includes memorable video clips and songs from the show.
IGT is changing the game again as it shows ICE attendees its award-winning game designs that bring skill to the casino floor. The new Reel Edge(TM) series of games was named Best Slot Product at the recent 8th Annual Gaming and Technology Awards. For the first time, spinning-reel players can stop the reels to attempt to create wins and use an arcade-style joystick to control the outcome of the 100 percent skill-based bonuses in the top box. On display from the Reel Edge(TM) series of games will be the vampire-inspired Blood Life(TM) and Red, White & Blue Falling Stars(TM).
IGT's Core games continue to offer an unmatched library of video and spinning-reel slots. And this year, the new Player Affinity Suite brings strong, recognizable brands to the casino floor that are sure to generate player interest. Among the new titles on display will be Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey(TM) 5 Reel Circus(TM) and The Greatest Show On Earth(TM) games. Also joining IGT's Core games is the top-performing favorite Siberian Storm(TM).
IGT continues to lead the industry by providing the network systems products that create the competitive edge needed in today's constantly changing gaming industry. Adding to the award-winning sbX(TM) Experience Management system, IGT will show new Service Window applications that provide players with customized gaming experiences and operators with access to the extensive IGT game library.
IGT will display the most innovative online and mobile gaming products in the industry at ICE 2011. The recent announcement of the formation of IGT's Interactive Division shows the Company's ongoing dedication to building on the strengths that IGT already enjoys in the online and mobile gaming markets. With a combined total of 18 years of experience in the online and mobile industry, IGT's WagerWorks and Million-2-1 groups have been rebranded and merged into a single global division. Since 2005, IGT has handled more than $10 billion in online wagers, with more than 1.5 billion online transactions annually.
IGT will also debut the new online game Star Trek(TM)at ICE, featuring some of the most innovative bonus rounds ever seen in an online slot game. IGT's online and mobile offerings at ICE will also include the Company's successful iPhone(R) and iPad(R) games, with popular titles such as Cleopatra(R) and Kitty Glitter(R). During the show, the free-to-play version of Cleopatra(R) will be available for download from the iPhone(R) app store at no cost.
IGT Brings Server-Based Technology to the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev. (15th December 2010)...
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), a global leader in creating the major games that players love and the systems that improve the player experience, has signed an agreement with the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev., to install IGT's industry-leading server-based game management solution. This agreement marks continued momentum in the growing adoption of game-to-system (G2S) server-based technology in the industry worldwide.
"There's no doubt our server-based solutions continue to gain momentum among operators," said Ron Rivera, IGT senior vice president of North America sales. "We're delighted that the Cannery has signed on as an IGT customer. With the combined horsepower of the AVP(R) machine and the industry's largest game library, the Cannery now has a distinct competitive advantage in using these tools to create a world-class player experience."
"We're excited to share the benefits of server-based technology with our players," said Xavier Walsh, COO of Cannery Resorts. "This innovative technology makes it easier than ever to adjust the floor to keep up with the expectations of our players and to deliver the games - and the experience - they're looking for at the Cannery. It's another way to differentiate ourselves from the competition."
IGT's Tier One package is a lease-based offering that combines Floor Manager and IGT's AVP(R) machines, plus access to IGT's game library of high-performing themes, giving the Cannery the power to deploy their choice of more than 300 compelling game themes to their floor in a matter of seconds, based on market conditions. The Tier One package is designed to provide a bank-level, server-based game management solution on 40 machines, with the potential for an eventual floorwide conversion.
Upon regulatory approval of IGT's server-based management system for this property, the Cannery will join the growing roster of leading casino operators worldwide who are optimizing their business using IGT's server-based solution. More than 20 different casinos in eight states and three countries have partnered with IGT for the innovation and the technology that deliver results to the bottom line.
IGT Explains The Pokies Industry In Australia And New Zealand...
Poker machines, or the 'pokies', have been a respectable Australian and New Zealand pastime for more than 50 years. Poker machines positively contribute to these economies; they provide revenue which is poured back into local communities, provide tens of thousands of jobs locally and are responsibly enjoyed by many people. In this heavily regulated industry, IGT ensures strict cooperation and compliance with government regulators across each jurisdiction it serves. The regulation of Australia's and New Zealand's poker machine industries is regarded as the toughest in the world. All our machines operate subject to jurisdictional legislation and regulation, in addition to the Australian/New Zealand Gaming Machine National Standard, which was developed by participants from all gaming regulators in Australia and New Zealand.
Offline Casino Games Found In Online Casinos...
Many of IGT's slot games are found in PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Richard Branson's Virgin Casino. PartyGaming's online casino brand can be accessed by Canadians, Australian's and New Zealanders, whereas Virgin Casino can not. Cleopatra, Wheel of Fortune and Monopoly are understood to be consistently the most popular online casino games found at Party. See Media Man Int reviews and profiles for more information.
Casino Reviews
http://www.mediamanint.com/profiles/casino_reviews.html
WMS Industries Inc: A Snapshot (Of The Company Currently Going Legal On PartyGaming)...
WMS Industries Inc. was formed in 1974 and achieved great success in the pinball, video arcade and home video game markets. With a demonstrated track record as a company that could "make great games", video and software technology, and manufacturing facilities all in place, WMS' foray into gaming was a natural progression for the corporation. WMS Gaming Inc. started out in the video lottery terminal (VLT) business in 1991. The company created, manufactured and placed VLTs in jurisdictions throughout North America. Once successfully established in the video lottery market, WMS Gaming moved into the casino gaming business with the introduction of a video poker game. A year later, the Company unveiled a complete line of technically advanced upright slot machines. In 1997, the company premiered what would be, and still is, its most successful video slot machine to date, Reel 'em In®. This multi-coin, multi-line game offered tons of bells and whistles for the slot player. In an effort to produce an enhanced playing experience, WMS Gaming installed full color high-resolution screens in its games, created full color, detailed graphics, provided an entertaining game theme with many betting options, and increased the hit frequency. These features translated to tremendous player acceptance, increased play and therefore, increased earnings. Since 1998, WMS Industries has been engaged entirely in the manufacture, sale, leasing and licensing of gaming machines. WMS Industries Inc. is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: WMS). The Company's subsidiary is WMS Gaming Inc.
About Aristocrat: A Snapshot...
With over 50 years industry experience and over 2000 staff globally, Aristocrat has built on its Australian market leadership and reputation to become a premium supplier of groundbreaking technologies and services to the international gaming industry. Aristocrat enjoys a well-earned reputation for outstanding performance and strong brand equity in more than 200 jurisdictions around the world. The diverse product line-up extends from electronic gaming machines to complete gaming solutions, including systems, services, electronic tables, and ancillary equipment. Our vision is clear: Aristocrat aims to become the leading provider of gaming solutions. Imagination, focus and creativity play major roles in achieving this vision. Aristocrat is committed to working in partnership with industry, governments and regulators and our core values of integrity and respect for the individual and the communities within which the company operates underpin relationships with all stakeholders. Aristocrat offices are located in Australia, the USA, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Sweden, Argentina, Japan, and Macau. Each staff member is focused on fulfilling the needs of customers at all levels, while the global management structure drives innovation in business areas. Aristocrat’s core values of integrity and respect for the individual and the communities within which the company operates, underpin relationships with all stakeholders. Aristocrat is committed to working in partnership with industry, governments, and regulators to ensure it meets all responsibilities.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
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Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Who will win the poker machine manufacturer wars? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
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