The gaming industry is fully embracing hybrid gaming, and this trend was on full display last week at the 2024 Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas.
Eight gaming manufacturers showcased electronic roulette tables (ETGs) that incorporated a virtual random number generator (RNG) element, marking a new phase in the evolution of roulette—a casino classic. These hybrid roulette games are generating excitement by allowing players to enjoy the traditional game they know, while adding an innovative virtual component that offers dramatically higher payouts, ranging from 50x to an impressive 1,000x of their bet.
Hybrid gaming, which is seeing a surge in popularity, strikes a balance between familiar casino games and cutting-edge digital features. One of the key drivers behind its success is that introducing entirely new games into casinos often requires significant marketing efforts and player education. With hybrid games, players don’t need to learn a new set of rules. Instead, they can enjoy the familiar gameplay of games like roulette, but with an added element of chance, and higher payout possibilities. This fusion of tradition and innovation is proving to be a winning strategy for both operators and players alike.
At G2E, the sheer number of companies presenting these hybrid roulette tables underscores an emerging trend in the gaming industry: the use of virtual RNGs to reinvigorate traditional table games. This approach appeals to casinos because it enhances the player experience without necessitating extensive infrastructure changes or the need for massive promotional campaigns to introduce an entirely new game.
One standout success in this space is Evolution Gaming’s Lightning Roulette. Lightning Roulette, originally launched as an online live-dealer game, has become one of the top-performing games for iCasinos. Recently, the Venetian Casino introduced a table version of Lightning Roulette, marking its first entry into a physical casino. Given its popularity online, chances are high that this success will translate to the casino floor as well, further fueling demand for hybrid gaming experiences.
As hybrid gaming gains momentum, the issue of intellectual property (IP) becomes increasingly important. Evolution has recently filed a patent and trade secret lawsuit against Light & Wonder over their competing product, Roulette X, which shares similarities with Lightning Roulette. This legal battle highlights the critical role that IP plays in the development of new hybrid games. Companies seeking to innovate in this space must be mindful of existing patents and protections to avoid potential legal disputes.
In conclusion, the rise of hybrid games is reshaping the gaming landscape, with roulette at the forefront, as demonstrated at t G2E 2024. The industry’s shift towards integrating virtual RNGs into traditional casino games reflects a broader trend of enhancing the player experience through higher payouts and exciting new features.
As the hybrid gaming market continues to expand, developers and manufacturers must remain vigilant about IP issues to ensure compliance with existing patents and avoid costly legal battles.
