Removing the need for cash

Konami Gaming has announced the launch of cashless casino slot markers at Ellis Island Casino, Hotel and Brewery in Las Vegas.

The US-based unit of Japanese gaming business Konami Holdings Corp has described the launch as “the gaming industry’s first field trial” of the cashless technology. The company said the system boasts a number of benefits, including increased Anti-Money Laundering compliance.

use their Marker Trax slot credit line to play electronically on any slot machine in the property

Through the technology, guests at Ellis Island Casino are able to sign up for a cashless wagering account powered by Konami’s casino management system Synkros. Players can then use their Marker Trax slot credit line to play electronically on any slot machine in the property, removing the need for cash withdrawals.

Commenting on the launch, Gary Ellis, owner of Ellis Island Casino, explained the benefits of the system which he said “allows players to access an approved credit line in minutes.” He commented: “It’s incredibly simple for guests, and truly streamlined with Synkros for staff and supervisors.”

A shift toward cashless gaming

Although cashless gaming has been on the agenda of the US gaming industry for some time, progress has been delayed by limits imposed by some gambling regulators. Now, the COVID-19 pandemic has sped up the shift toward cashless gaming as state officials aim to limit the spread of the virus.

Since Las Vegas casinos reopened on June 5, the Nevada Gaming Commission has approved eight changes to regulations on cashless gaming systems. Under the amended regulation, suppliers are now permitted to provide new cashless systems to casinos in the state.

In New Jersey, cashless payment options are currently legal. According to David Rebuck, director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, state regulators are now awaiting cashless products to be submitted for approval.

Other cashless systems

Over the past few months, a number of gaming suppliers have launched new products to fill the need for cashless gaming across the world.

Scientific Games said the new technology would reduce costs on machine maintenance

In May, Scientific Games unveiled a new suite of solutions to assist operators in maintaining health and safety regulations post-COVID-19. The portfolio includes a Unified Wallet which allows players to fund their slot and table game play through a mobile app. In addition to eliminating the need for cash withdrawal, Scientific Games said the new technology will reduce costs on machine maintenance.

Meanwhile, gaming supplier International Game Technology (IGT) recently launched its INTELLIGEN system at Svenska Spel properties across Sweden.

The cashless gaming technology gives players the option to fund their play at the Swedish operator’s Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) from their mobiles. Svenska Spel director of VLT operations Magnus Lannersund described the system as “among the first of its kind” in the country.