The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has received results of a preliminary study on its “Play My Way” responsible gaming program. Researchers from the Cambridge Health Alliance reported that gamblers using the program, which allows slot players to set a budget before beginning play, reported that those using the option at Plainridge Park Casino are betting less and losing less than other gamblers.
Play My Way is a voluntary electronic system by which slot machine players can “personalize their play” by setting a budget before they begin gambling. The budgeting tool then provides players with automatic notifications to help keep track of their spending.
The pilot program is the first of its kind in the U.S. Similar systems have been applied in Australia, Canada, Norway and Sweden. Plainridge owner Penn National is being joined by the state’s other two licensees, MGM Resorts International and Wynn Resorts in the commission’s program. MGM Springfield, to open in late 2018, and Wynn Boston Harbor, to open in 2019, will both implement the Play My Way feature on their slots, according to regulators.
