Skill-based slot machine developer Synergy Blue announced an agreement Wednesday with Hong Kong-based blockchain developer Alphaslot to explore how to merge the technology with casino gaming to create an entertainment product for the U.S., Asian and European gaming markets.
In a statement released in conjunction with the Global Gaming Expo Asia conference in Macau, Synergy Blue leaders said the strategic alliance will explore how Alphaslot’s blockchain technology could be used in skill-based casino gambling.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Blockchain technology is a system which records financial transactions recorded in bitcoin or another cryptocurrency. The gaming industry in the U.S. has not adapted regulations governing cryptocurrency.
Synergy Blue CEO Georg Washington participated in a panel discussion, moderated by Alphaslot Chief Operating Officer Albert Yu, at G2E Asia concerning gaming industry innovations and regulatory challenges in various gaming segments. Washington and the other panelists explored Asia’s online gaming future and the potential for skill-based gaming products.
Washington said in a statement Alphaslot would be at the forefront if the gaming industry moves forward in adopting of blockchain technology.
“While microtransactions, unique award items, and soft upgrades are unheard of in the casino/gambling world, they are pervasive in the video game market,” Washington said. “Our goal is to explore how to leverage blockchain technology to help attract the next generation of gamblers and provide innovative entertainment experiences.”
Alphaslot wants to provide its technology to interface with casino gaming equipment, which would connect the casinos and players through a blockchain network.
Washington said the company and Alphaslot will explore blockchain technology with gaming regulators and casino operators “to ensure compliance and to help spark adoption throughout the industry.”
Alphaslot CEO Raymond Chan said the company wants “an opportunity to expand into the emerging market of skill-based casino gaming, which could lead to demand for interactive products powered by blockchain technology. Our new blockchain technology, combined with Synergy Blue’s gaming innovation, could help shape the future of the casino gaming industry.”
The companies first presented the idea at the ICE London gaming show in February.
Synergy Blue, which is based in Palm Desert, California and was licensed in March by Nevada gaming regulators, is majority owned by the Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians. Its first iteration of skill-based games was introduced about a year ago on the floor of the Augustine Casino in the Coachella Valley in California.
Besides placement at Augustine, Synergy Blue is currently conducting European trials. It also has relationships with manufacturers Aristocrat and IGT, Washington said told the Nevada Gaming Commission. The company, which currently has 19 slot machine titles, is expected to conduct field trials of its games in Nevada this year.
Howard Stutz is the executive editor of CDC Gaming. He can be reached at hstutz@cdcgamingreports.com. Follow @howardstutz on Twitter.
