The National Football League (NFL) and Aristocrat Gaming have formed an exclusive, multi-year slot machine licensing agreement, giving Aristocrat an exclusive global license to produce land-based NFL slot games.
In addition to the land-based slot machine license, Aristocrat also received a non-exclusive license for virtual sports games. This is the first virtual sports deal of its kind for the NFL.
“The world of casino gaming is transforming, and the NFL is thrilled to be teaming up with industry leader, Aristocrat Gaming, with their proven track record in slot machine innovation and commitment to responsible gaming,” said Rachel Hoagland, vice president, gaming and partnership management at the NFL.
“Today’s slot machines offer engaging experiences akin to popular video game consoles that our fans adore, and we believe with Aristocrat’s vision, we can bring that exciting gaming experience to fans on the casino floor looking to show their love of football.”
Aristocrat’s NFL-themed slots will allow players to customize the experience based on their favorite NFL teams. Aristocrat expects to launch the first NFL-themed slot machine in 2023 near the start of the NFL season.
“At Aristocrat, we are changing the game. In that spirit, we are thrilled to enter this agreement with the NFL, whose similar mission made this a natural partnership,” said Hector Fernandez, President of Aristocrat Americas and EMEA. “Fans worldwide love watching the NFL, and casino players worldwide enjoy Aristocrat games. This agreement presents a new opportunity to reach tens of millions of NFL and Aristocrat fans with exciting new entertainment options on the casino floor and beyond.”
This deal is the latest in a long line for gambling-related agreements for the NFL. Most recently, the league partnered with the National Council on Problem Gambling to launch a responsible gaming public awareness program.
Last month, Aristocrat announced that it has agreed to acquire online gambling solutions giant Playtech in a deal worth approximately £2.7bn (€3.2bn/$3.7bn) on an enterprise value basis.