The Nevada Gaming Commission is considering new rules designed to speed the process for getting new games onto casino floors.
The commission was scheduled to vote last week on a plan to create a “New Innovation Beta” process to allow developers and manufacturers to quickly test their products prior to selling them.
Game-makers use field trials to see if games can technically stand up to real-world use and to see if gamblers find them easy and fun to play. However, games are required to meet all of Nevada’s regulatory standards before field trials can begin. The NIB process does away with that requirement.
“Here we can essentially skip that and allow the NIB to commence,” said A.G. Burnett, chairman of the Nevada Gaming Control Board. “So it’s like a fast-track field trial.”
The overall time for getting a new game approved may end up being similar to what it is now. However, the chance to put games in front of users sooner would be a major benefit.
“As it stands, after getting the technical certification, you still have to have field trials,” explained Eric Meyerhofer, CEO of Gamblit Gaming, which is working to get its skill-based video games into casinos. “You’re talking several months of additional delay to get products on floor and get player’s reactions. But with the NIB, you can vet products while they’re out on the floor and that’s better for everyone.”
Marcus Prater, executive director of the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers, which worked with the Nevada Gaming Control Board to develop the new regulations, said the streamlining makes sense.
“Under the new scenario, if a manufacturer has a concept that’s unique, the manufacturer can test it for player acceptance and for software stability and for all of the things that would be required to make it commercially successful first, rather than go through a long process first,” he noted.
“I think it’s a great plan,” said Blaine Graboyes, CEO of GameCo, which recently received approval from regulators in New Jersey to roll out its skill-based video game gambling machines in that state.
Graboyes said it’s important that regulators everywhere recognize the need for speed.
“Anything that can be done to bring more innovation more quickly is absolutely critical.”
