iGaming solutions giant International Game Technology (IGT) has successfully completed the final stage of Nevada regulatory approval for its Resort Wallet carded cashless module, a payment solution forming part of its IGT Advantage casino management system.
The solution is now approved to be deployed in casinos throughout the state, which the supplier said would allow its customers to offer their patrons the option of a reduced-contact, safer cashless slot gaming experience.
The approved Resort Wallet module allows players to use a casino loyalty card to transfer cash into a secure digital wallet, either at the casino’s cash desk or at any Resort Wallet-enabled slot machine.
Players can then insert the PIN-protected card into slot machines, apply the funds to their game play, and cash out to their digital wallet at any time. They can also choose to move a portion of their funds from the slot machine to their digital wallet while printing a ticket at the slot machine showing their balance.
This carded cashless module is one of three variations available as part of the Resort Wallet solution.
Another variation is the cardless cashless solution, which allows players to tap their smartphone on a slot machine or table game to access their digital wallet. They can then access their account, load cash either at the cashier, kiosk or slot machine, and transfer funds between slot machines onsite as well as between properties.
IGT said the third variation, cashless with external funding, is the full-service variation of the Resort Wallet solution, combining Resort Wallet with IGTPay, the supplier’s proprietary external funding system.
In this variation, players can access their cashless wagering account through a mobile app, which can be loaded directly with funds from external sources such as credit and debit cards, bank accounts and e-wallets.
In addition to slot play, customers will be able to access the funds in their Resort Wallet accounts for table gaming, sports betting and at retail points-of-sale.
IGT said the modules encourage social distancing on the gaming floor by reducing line-ups at cash desks and kiosks, and generate greater operational efficiency by reducing cash handling costs and associated risks.
“Our Resort Wallet solution ensures that our customers can experience the increased liquidity, player convenience, and enhanced safety that only cashless gaming can deliver,” IGT vice president of video lottery terminal systems and payment products Ryan Reddy said.
“This solution will heighten the player experience to new levels while positioning our customers as technology leaders. We’re grateful to the Nevada Gaming Control Board for enabling this momentous debut in the state.”
Results published this week showed that gaming revenue in Nevada for November was down 6.4% month-on-month, at $771.2m, representing a decline of 14.3% compared to the same month in 2019. $7.52bn was staked on slots, out of a total $9.42bn staked across the state.
Casinos in Nevada have been limited to just 25% of their customer capacity since November 24, following restrictions introduced by Governor Steve Sisolak in response to increasing cases of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19).