Slot manufacturer International Game Technology and Florida’s Seminole Hard Rock Tampa casino last week officially launched IGT’s award-winning Sphinx 4D video slot. The new game combines mid-air haptic and gesture-based technology with the glasses-free TRUE 3D graphics.
“Our guests will truly be amazed at all of the features that are offered on these machines,” said Dan Ingster, vice president of slots for Seminole Hard Rock Tampa. “This is the world’s only glasses-free 3D machine in full ultra-HD resolution. For those who are seeking an interactive experience and who enjoy variety and big bonus action, these machines will definitely be appealing.”
According to IGT, the Sphinx 4D game introduces unprecedented immersion and interaction with mid-air haptic technology, gesture recognition and new hardware. To go along with enhanced surround sound and ultra-HD graphics, the game offers an advanced moveable chair with rumble functionality.
“IGT is excited to partner with Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa for the U.S. premiere of the award-winning Sphinx 4D game,” said Nick Khin, IGT chief commercial officer, gaming. “The immersive, multi-sensory gaming experience that Sphinx 4D delivers enables Seminole Hard Rock Tampa to continue its legacy of providing world-class gaming for its entertainment.”
The launch came as IGT stock soared 15.09 percent last Tuesday, after beating third quarter earnings consensus by 16 cents a share and lifting the bottom-end of its full-year adjusted EBITDA guidance.
IGT now forecasts adjusted EBITDA between $1.64 billion and $1.68 billion with net debt around the same level as the end of the third quarter at $7.335 billion.
IGT expects growth in the segment with new games and cabinets coming to the market. North America gaming and interactive revenues rose by 4 percent in the third quarter after the sale of DoubleDown was factored out, with demand boosting average price per unit.
A total of 6,406 machines shipped during the third quarter with higher average selling prices than last year.
IGT’s global installed base grew 5.6 percent to 61,492 though its average revenue per unit per day fell 9.9 percent to $29.07.
“Our largest global lottery operations are growing steadily and acceptance of our newest gaming machines is expanding around the world,” said Marco Sala, chief executive officer of IGT. “The significant increase in gaming and lottery product sales demonstrates clear interest in our systems and technology solutions.”
IGT’s top line numbers were mixed, reflecting the sale of its DoubleDown social games unit earlier this year.
Net revenues were down 6 percent on a constant currency basis to $1.2 billion, adjusted EBITDA dropped by 3 percent to $428 million and adjusted operating income fell 12 percent to $258 million, or $0.40 per share.
