888 has announced a strategic partnership with Illinois-based WMS Gaming Inc, a leading gaming machine manufacturer in the US. The deal will allow WMS to offer US land-based casino operators a “world-class online poker solution.”
Initially WMS will offer its online poker as a play-money option for brick-and-mortar casinos; however, the solution will be converted to a “real money offering immediately as either Federal or state based regulation is finalized and upon licensing by gaming authorities.”
“By deploying our joint online poker solution, casino operators in the United States will be able to provide their customers with a robust and secure network with the liquidity and games offering to give the best possible player experience,” said Brian Mattingley, CEO of 888.
In addition to its agreement with WMS, 888 also has ties directly with Caesars Entertainment. In March 2011, just prior to Black Friday, the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) voted unanimously to recommend the approval of the existing partnership between the two companies. 888 has provided Caesars with the software and infrastructure to promote its World Series of Poker brand in the UK for more than three years.
Then in January, the two companies announced that they had extended their agreement to license 888’s software in the United States ahead of anticipated regulation at either the federal or state level.
WMS, 888 and Caesars have all applied for interactive gaming licenses in Nevada. The first of these types of licenses were issued just weeks ago to Bally Technologies and International Game Technology (IGT).
Manufacturer of slot machines, video poker terminals and a casino management platform, WMS is also noted for first introducing the “tilt” feature to pinball machines.
London Stock Exchange-Listed 888 holdings operates 888poker, the 4th largest online poker room or network internationally.
