Aristocrat Australian Pokies Australian slots Australian slots online Australian Casino News Down Under slots Media Man Int

Aristocrat

Aristocrat Aussie Battle Returning To Casino King; Tarzan, Mr. Cashman Headline Aristocrat's Booth at Southern Gaming Summit...

From Australia to Vegas To Biloxi, the embattled Aussie firm is bouncing back with a vengeance.

Aristocrat Technologies is bringing top-name celebrities to Biloxi for the annual Southern Gaming Summit. "Tarzan(R)" and "Mr. Cashman" of Cashman Fever(TM) will be front and center as Aristocrat unveils its newest games that will help operators across the South give their customers the greatest gaming experience every day. Aristocrat will be in booth #812, where the stunning new video slot game Tarzan®Lord of the Jungle™ will bring a call of the wild to the tradeshow floor. Tarzan Lord of the Jungle is the newest title in Aristocrat's award-winning VERVEhd™ cabinet, where the game's big screen style action stretches top to bottom. The game is complete with incredible stereo sound, seven high-hit frequency bonus features and a four-level progressive with a jungle-sized top jackpot of $250,000. Co-starring at the event is every casino player's best friend, Mr. Cashman™, who is now starring in the new video slot game Cashman Fever™. Cashman Fever brings the fun and excitement that players have come to expect from Mr. Cashman to a scorching hot new level. Cashman Fever is a new feature-rich, highly entertaining gaming experience with four red-hot, high-frequency Cashman Fever bonus features and an exclusive Cashman Fever Progressive Link feature that offers 20 jackpot pools. Aristocrat is riding a wave of award-winning success, and the company will be showing off its most recent award-winning products, including More Hearts™ and More Chilli™, the opening titles on Aristocrat's all-new and award-winning game category Mega Pay™, which was recently named one of the Top Ten Slot Floor Products for 2011 in the fifth annual Casino Enterprise Management Slot Floor Technology Awards. Aristocrat will also be showing its all-new game category Win Your Way™ and its industry-exclusive Nteractiv™ LCD Programmable Buttons, which were both recently named to the list of Casino Journal's annual "Top 20 Most Innovative Gaming Technology Awards." Aristocrat will introduce southern operators to Stuntman Sam™, the company's newest hero who in this thrilling new game attempts several heart-stopping, death-defying feats to give players an entertaining gaming experience and a big win. And "Rock Star of the Art World," Michael Godard's work will be on display in Monster Boogie™, the hilarious sequel to the instant player favorite Rockin Olives™. Also showing Gazellions™ and Fortune Fantasy™, where players have a chance to play four games at once; and the latest entry in Aristocrat's Reel Tall Tales™ line, The Headless Horseman™, a triple standalone progressive with five bonus features. They're not just games, they're Aristocrat games, and they give the greatest gaming experience every day.

News

Aristocrat Slots Move Online Via NextGen Gaming and bet365 - 27th March 2011

NextGen Gaming recently announced it will be partnering with online gambling site bet365 to offer a new group of games. The online gambling software developer NetGen was founded in 1999, NextGen pioneered platform-independent content delivery.

Bet365 will be the first online gambling operator to offer the internet versions of popular land based slots by Aristocrat but not the only online operator says NetGen. The games released include Queen of The Nile 2, Lucky 88, Where’s The Gold, and leading branded title Zorro. Red Baron and Big Ben are in the process of becoming online gaming slots to be launched in the near future.

CEO of NextGen Gaming, Matt Davey, commented, “We’re delighted to be part of bet365’s important release of the first of Aristocrat’s market-leading slots content for the online market…bet365’s innovation and foresight rightly sees them as one of the industry’s leading lights. Aristocrat’s mature, proven product and NextGen’s network of major eGaming operators, serviced via multiple platform partners, provides broad distribution of unbeatable content.”
The managing director of gaming at bet365, Steve Ibberson, said, “We are delighted to have launched the first of our Aristocrat titles with our partners at NextGen Gaming. Aristocrat’s games are favourites with players across the globe and we are excited to be pioneers in offering them to our players online.”

Aristocrat’s general manager of group strategy, Gillian Findlay, stated, “Aristocrat has been developing great game titles for the global casino market since 1956 and we want to offer our superior game quality and range to the regulated online market. NextGen Gaming has demonstrated their ability to bring our proven games online with the launch of these initial titles, and we look forward to subsequent roll-outs via NextGen’s established relationships with the world’s leading online operators.”

This launch is another example of the land based gambling industry making its vast amount of content available to the online gambler.

News

Australian Betting Limited 'Bullet Proof' NOT! Says Maker Aristocrat...

A card-based system forcing pokie players to set betting limits isn't a "bullet proof" solution to problem gambling, poker machine maker Aristocrat Leisure Ltd says. Aristocrat, representing over 60% of the Australian pokies market, is instead proposing a machine-based system that lets gamblers set time and/or betting limits. But the proposal was met with some opposition when Aristocrat executives appeared before a joint federal parliamentary committee hearing in Sydney on Friday. The committee is investigating the idea of a pre-commitment scheme using smart card or other technology to force pokie players to set limits on their gambling. It follows a controversial commitment from Prime Minister Julia Gillard to Tasmanian "independent" (so to speak - has seen to be bias and preduduce against those liking a punt) MP Andrew Wilkie to introduce such a scheme across the country in return for his support of her Labor government. "As a company, we acknowledge that there is a problem out there," Aristocrat general manager of corporate affairs Kristene Reynolds told the hearing. "For us, coming here today is to come to the table and be part of that solution." The company's managing director in Australia and New Zealand, Trevor Croker, said card-based systems, which have been used in other countries, can be manipulated by problem gamblers. "It is not a bullet proof solution. People do swap cards and have been able to use multiple cards," he said. "I think finding the complete solution is going to be a very difficult outcome. "It should not be something we don't aspire to, but it will be very difficult, from what we see in those (other) markets." Aristocrat will soon trial a new slot machine that features opt-in pre-commitments, allowing users the option to set themselves spending or time limits. These machines could be ready for mass production from the end of 2012, and phased in as part of the normal machine replacement cycle, Croker said. But with the average cost of a pokie at $25,000, Labor MP Stephen Jones questioned the Aristocrat executives on the cost effectiveness of such a solution. "It would be good for Aristocrat, I can see that. But it's a very expensive solution to the problem, isn't it?", he asked. Aristocrat general manager of design and development Justin Brown said smaller venues could be given longer to replace their machines, while newer models may only require a software upgrade, at a cost of about $3,000. Mr Wilkie, the committee's chairman, also questioned the motives of Aristocrat's proposal. "I can't help feeling an element of commercial self interest in your advice to the committee here," he said. Further questioning resulted in the Aristocrat executives conceding their machine-based proposal would not prevent problem gamblers from simply switching machines or venues once they had reached a pre-committed loss or time limit. The hearings continue in Canberra and Hobart later this month. In Australia the machines are often known as pokies or poker machines, in the U.S - slots, and much of Europe - Fruit Machines or Fruities!

News

IGT And Aristocrat Leisure: Gaming And Casino War, by Greg Tingle - 19th January 2011

G'day Yankies, Aussies, punters, casino and gambling millionaires, billionaires, legal eagles, politicians - one and all. The Australian VS American casino wars escalate once again. While many details of America's IGT (International Gaming Technology) VS Australia's Aristocrat Leisure legal situation remain sketchy, both companies remain in the spotlight, domestically and internationally, and remarkably Aristocrat's shares have continued to climb in the past few days. 'The Crat' is also gearing up for a massive national and international gaming expo itinerary, that should see them power ahead, if they can hold off potentially very expensive legal proceedings. Media Man and Gambling911 continue to apply the probe to Aristocrat and IGT, with just a dash of Party and WMS for good measure...

Readers will likely be family with both companies. IGT is widely considered the original and the best, and in recent years has expanded their online gaming arm known WagerWorks. Many of the world's leading online casinos such as PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Richard Branson's Virgin Casino carry the WagerWorks online games. Some of the most popular titles include Cleopatra, Monopoly, Wheel Of Fortune, Double Diamond, Elvis, Battle Ship and Da Vinci Diamonds, with Cleo holding the world's most popular online and offline slot of all time.

The gambling and gaming industry is known for its copy cats, trademark infringements and massive law suits, with "legal eagles" know to be very fond of the sector and its substantial payout jackpots!

This lawsuit situation between IGT and Aristocrat follows a long line of legal actions in gambling including PartyGaming VS WMS, Marvel Entertainment VS Cryptologic, Michael Jackson Estate VS "Michael Jackson Casino", Majestic Star Casino LLC VS "Majestic Star Casino" (online) and Vegas Pinnacle Entertainment VS Eskay SEO ("Belterra Casino Indiana")

Media Man's http://www.AustralianSportsEntertainment.com Greg Tingle offered the following "The latest lawsuit from IGT against Australia's Aristocrat Leisure is not a surprise in my opinion. It's been a long time coming, with both parties being able to come to a mutually beneficial settlement to date. IGT is largely considered the world's most successful gaming machine manufacture, and some would say the original and best, of the modern era. Australia's Aristocrat has come under some substantial financial pressure in recent years, and this lawsuit action may very well add to this. The land based and online gambling community, legal and government sectors will be watching this one closely. My money is on IGT to win, but stranger things have happened. May the best brand win."

Press Release...

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 15, 2010

International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) today announced the filing of a patent infringement lawsuit against Aristocrat Leisure Limited of Australia and its U.S. Affiliate Aristocrat Technologies, Inc., (collectively "Aristocrat") in connection with the sale and distribution of Aristocrat's gaming devices, including particularly Aristocrat's Viridian WS slot machines. The lawsuit comes after failed attempts to resolve the IP disputes between Aristocrat and IGT.

The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. In the suit, IGT asserts that Aristocrat has willfully infringed and continues to infringe two patents directed to fundamental capabilities for authentication of gaming software:

U.S. Patent 6,620,047 entitled "Electronic Gaming Apparatus Having Authentication Data Sets"; and U.S. Patent No. RE 39,370 entitled "Electronic Casino Gaming System with Improved Play Capacity, Authentication and Security." "We filed this case because IGT's intellectual property is being knowingly and unfairly exploited by Aristocrat," said Robert C. Melendres, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at IGT. "IGT is the world's leading innovator and creator of intellectual property in the gaming industry."

About IGT

International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) is a global leader in the design, development, and manufacture of gaming machines and systems products, as well as online and mobile gaming solutions for regulated markets. SOURCE IGT

Share Prices: IGT VS Aristocrat (19th January 2011)...

International Gaming Technology

IGT: NYSE: IGT $18.75 USD -0.05 (-0.27%)

Aristocrat Leisure: 3.040: ASX (Australia Securities Exchange)

WMS: NYSE: $46.45; Change is 0.71 (1.51%)

Australian Gaming Shares Pick Of The Bunch: Aristocrat Leisure! (Hell Freezes Over)...

The best performing stock in the S&P/ASX200 was Aristocrat Leisure shares advanced 3.33% to close at $3.10.

Aristocrat Technologies Australia To Hit National And International Trade Show Circuit Big Time This Year; Positive Exposure May Boost Sales And Positive Buzz...

Trade Show - Date - Venue...

IGE 25 Jan 11 - 27 Jan 11 Earls Court, London, UK

Club Managers Association Australia (CMAA) Trade Show 28 Feb 11 - 02 Mar 11 Sydney, NSW, Australia

Hospitality & Gaming Australiasia (HGA) show 16 Mar 11 - 17 Mar 11 Gold Coast, QLD, Australia

National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) 03 Apr 11 - 06 Apr 11 San Diego, CA, USA

Southern Gaming Summit 04 May 11 - 05 May 11 Biloxi, MS, USA

Great Plains Indian Gaming Show 16 May 11 - 18 May 11 Mystic Lake, Minnesota

Gaming Technology Summit 24 May 11 - 25 May 11 Henderson, NV, Las Vegas

G2E Asia 07 Jun 11 - 09 Jun 11 The Venetian, Macau

SAGSE – Panama City 22 Jun 11 - 23 Jun 11 Panama City, Panama

Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE) 21 Aug 11 - 23 Aug 11 Sydney, NSW, Australia

Oasis Summit 07 Sep 11 - 09 Sep 11 Las Vegas, Nevada

Global Gaming Expo (G2E) 04 Oct 11 - 06 Oct 11 Las Vegas, NV, USA

SAGSE - Buenos Aires 09 Nov 11 - 11 Nov 11 Buenos Aires, Argentina

TribalNet11 Conference 14 Nov 11 - 17 Nov 11 NV, USA

IGT Current News...

IGT to Showcase Future of Gaming at International Casino Exhibition (ICE) 2011 in London...

International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), a global leader in creating the major games that players love and the casino network systems that improve the player experience, will display the latest groundbreaking casino games and network systems products, as well as innovative mobile and online offerings, at stand 3430 at the International Casino Exhibition (ICE) on Jan. 25-27, 2011. This year IGT will show how "It's a Whole New Game" by displaying a wide range of games for the casino floor and the interactive world at London's Earls Court Exhibition Centre.

"At ICE 2011, we are excited to show ICE attendees what makes IGT a world leader in gaming," said Craig Churchill, IGT's senior vice president of International Sales. "From the latest in slot floor technology to cutting-edge mobile and online products, IGT is dedicated to providing our international customers with the very best products and end-to-end networked gaming solutions to help them meet their operating objectives and deliver unparalleled player experiences."

IGT is known for delivering the most recognizable names in popular culture to the casino floor, and this year, the Company will display some of its biggest names yet. From an amazing Premium Products lineup, also known as MegaJackpots(R), to the new Core Player Affinity Suite, the big titles at ICE will confirm IGT's dedication to bringing thrilling moments to players.

Star Wars(TM) Droid(TM) Huntis set to become the most popular Star Wars casino game ever released. A well-researched understanding of what game elements excite players and a highly creative visual experience combine to deliver lively gaming action. The game comes complete with four galactic bonus rounds and a Premium Products top award.

The new Dirty Dancing(R) Slot features the iconic characters Baby and Johnny (played by Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey) in a game infused with nostalgia, famous songs and video clips. This Premium Products game includes a new Spin Magic feature that turns minor symbol outcomes into wilds.

At ICE 2011, IGT will be the center of attention with the show-stopping Center Stage Series. Offering operators the ability to refresh content with the latest high-impact games, the Center Stage Series will be on display, complete with incredible sound chairs, oversized screens, big bonuses and the biggest game titles for the casino floor.

Debuting on IGT's Center Stage lineup at ICE will be The Dark Knight(TM), which will be featured on the platform's 103-inch screen. Players can choose to play Batman or the Joker to immerse themselves in group and individual bonuses while enjoying the thematic film experience. Also joining the lineup will be American Idol(R) MultiPLAY video slots. This game delivers entertainment that is packed with action. The unique group play Audition Bonus includes memorable video clips and songs from the show.

IGT is changing the game again as it shows ICE attendees its award-winning game designs that bring skill to the casino floor. The new Reel Edge(TM) series of games was named Best Slot Product at the recent 8th Annual Gaming and Technology Awards. For the first time, spinning-reel players can stop the reels to attempt to create wins and use an arcade-style joystick to control the outcome of the 100 percent skill-based bonuses in the top box. On display from the Reel Edge(TM) series of games will be the vampire-inspired Blood Life(TM) and Red, White & Blue Falling Stars(TM).

IGT's Core games continue to offer an unmatched library of video and spinning-reel slots. And this year, the new Player Affinity Suite brings strong, recognizable brands to the casino floor that are sure to generate player interest. Among the new titles on display will be Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey(TM) 5 Reel Circus(TM) and The Greatest Show On Earth(TM) games. Also joining IGT's Core games is the top-performing favorite Siberian Storm(TM).

IGT continues to lead the industry by providing the network systems products that create the competitive edge needed in today's constantly changing gaming industry. Adding to the award-winning sbX(TM) Experience Management system, IGT will show new Service Window applications that provide players with customized gaming experiences and operators with access to the extensive IGT game library.

IGT will display the most innovative online and mobile gaming products in the industry at ICE 2011. The recent announcement of the formation of IGT's Interactive Division shows the Company's ongoing dedication to building on the strengths that IGT already enjoys in the online and mobile gaming markets. With a combined total of 18 years of experience in the online and mobile industry, IGT's WagerWorks and Million-2-1 groups have been rebranded and merged into a single global division. Since 2005, IGT has handled more than $10 billion in online wagers, with more than 1.5 billion online transactions annually.

IGT will also debut the new online game Star Trek(TM)at ICE, featuring some of the most innovative bonus rounds ever seen in an online slot game. IGT's online and mobile offerings at ICE will also include the Company's successful iPhone(R) and iPad(R) games, with popular titles such as Cleopatra(R) and Kitty Glitter(R). During the show, the free-to-play version of Cleopatra(R) will be available for download from the iPhone(R) app store at no cost.

IGT Brings Server-Based Technology to the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev. (15th December 2010)...

International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), a global leader in creating the major games that players love and the systems that improve the player experience, has signed an agreement with the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev., to install IGT's industry-leading server-based game management solution. This agreement marks continued momentum in the growing adoption of game-to-system (G2S) server-based technology in the industry worldwide.

"There's no doubt our server-based solutions continue to gain momentum among operators," said Ron Rivera, IGT senior vice president of North America sales. "We're delighted that the Cannery has signed on as an IGT customer. With the combined horsepower of the AVP(R) machine and the industry's largest game library, the Cannery now has a distinct competitive advantage in using these tools to create a world-class player experience."

"We're excited to share the benefits of server-based technology with our players," said Xavier Walsh, COO of Cannery Resorts. "This innovative technology makes it easier than ever to adjust the floor to keep up with the expectations of our players and to deliver the games - and the experience - they're looking for at the Cannery. It's another way to differentiate ourselves from the competition."

IGT's Tier One package is a lease-based offering that combines Floor Manager and IGT's AVP(R) machines, plus access to IGT's game library of high-performing themes, giving the Cannery the power to deploy their choice of more than 300 compelling game themes to their floor in a matter of seconds, based on market conditions. The Tier One package is designed to provide a bank-level, server-based game management solution on 40 machines, with the potential for an eventual floorwide conversion.

Upon regulatory approval of IGT's server-based management system for this property, the Cannery will join the growing roster of leading casino operators worldwide who are optimizing their business using IGT's server-based solution. More than 20 different casinos in eight states and three countries have partnered with IGT for the innovation and the technology that deliver results to the bottom line.

IGT Explains The Pokies Industry In Australia And New Zealand...

Poker machines, or the 'pokies', have been a respectable Australian and New Zealand pastime for more than 50 years. Poker machines positively contribute to these economies; they provide revenue which is poured back into local communities, provide tens of thousands of jobs locally and are responsibly enjoyed by many people. In this heavily regulated industry, IGT ensures strict cooperation and compliance with government regulators across each jurisdiction it serves. The regulation of Australia's and New Zealand's poker machine industries is regarded as the toughest in the world. All our machines operate subject to jurisdictional legislation and regulation, in addition to the Australian/New Zealand Gaming Machine National Standard, which was developed by participants from all gaming regulators in Australia and New Zealand.

Offline Casino Games Found In Online Casinos...

Many of IGT's slot games are found in PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Richard Branson's Virgin Casino. PartyGaming's online casino brand can be accessed by Canadians, Australian's and New Zealanders, whereas Virgin Casino can not. Cleopatra, Wheel of Fortune and Monopoly are understood to be consistently the most popular online casino games found at Party. See Media Man Int reviews and profiles for more information.

Casino Reviews

Media Man Int Casino Reviews

WMS Industries Inc: A Snapshot (Of The Company Currently Going Legal On PartyGaming)...

WMS Industries Inc. was formed in 1974 and achieved great success in the pinball, video arcade and home video game markets. With a demonstrated track record as a company that could "make great games", video and software technology, and manufacturing facilities all in place, WMS' foray into gaming was a natural progression for the corporation. WMS Gaming Inc. started out in the video lottery terminal (VLT) business in 1991. The company created, manufactured and placed VLTs in jurisdictions throughout North America. Once successfully established in the video lottery market, WMS Gaming moved into the casino gaming business with the introduction of a video poker game. A year later, the Company unveiled a complete line of technically advanced upright slot machines. In 1997, the company premiered what would be, and still is, its most successful video slot machine to date, Reel 'em In®. This multi-coin, multi-line game offered tons of bells and whistles for the slot player. In an effort to produce an enhanced playing experience, WMS Gaming installed full color high-resolution screens in its games, created full color, detailed graphics, provided an entertaining game theme with many betting options, and increased the hit frequency. These features translated to tremendous player acceptance, increased play and therefore, increased earnings. Since 1998, WMS Industries has been engaged entirely in the manufacture, sale, leasing and licensing of gaming machines. WMS Industries Inc. is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: WMS). The Company's subsidiary is WMS Gaming Inc.

About Aristocrat: A Snapshot...

With over 50 years industry experience and over 2000 staff globally, Aristocrat has built on its Australian market leadership and reputation to become a premium supplier of groundbreaking technologies and services to the international gaming industry. Aristocrat enjoys a well-earned reputation for outstanding performance and strong brand equity in more than 200 jurisdictions around the world. The diverse product line-up extends from electronic gaming machines to complete gaming solutions, including systems, services, electronic tables, and ancillary equipment. Our vision is clear: Aristocrat aims to become the leading provider of gaming solutions. Imagination, focus and creativity play major roles in achieving this vision. Aristocrat is committed to working in partnership with industry, governments and regulators and our core values of integrity and respect for the individual and the communities within which the company operates underpin relationships with all stakeholders. Aristocrat offices are located in Australia, the USA, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Sweden, Argentina, Japan, and Macau. Each staff member is focused on fulfilling the needs of customers at all levels, while the global management structure drives innovation in business areas. Aristocrat’s core values of integrity and respect for the individual and the communities within which the company operates, underpin relationships with all stakeholders. Aristocrat is committed to working in partnership with industry, governments, and regulators to ensure it meets all responsibilities.

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Who will win the poker machine manufacturer wars? Tell us in the forum.

If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.

Media Man does not represent IGT, however do have b2b agreements with other companies with IGT products and services in their portfolio

Profile

HISTORY OF ARISTOCRAT

Almost a stone’s throw from Aristocrat’s original manufacturing plant in Sydney, Australia, there is a small and somewhat dilapidated red brick building of which very few Aristocrat staff are aware.

There, more than fifty years ago, Aristocrat’s first gaming machine was designed and built, and is the site where Aristocrat first established its reputation as one of the most innovative and successful gaming machine manufacturers in the world.

OUR MISSION

Aristocrat aims to become the leading provider of gaming solutions

To provide players around the world with exciting and rewarding games of chance in a responsible manner

To be viewed by operators as a trusted commercial partner providing profitable gaming solutions

To cooperate with industry and government bodies in order to meet responsibilities to the communities within which the company operates

To provide a vibrant and enriching work environment that attracts and professionally develops talented individuals

To create value for each stakeholder

Aristocrat enjoys a well-earned reputation for outstanding performance and strong brand equity in more than 200 jurisdictions around the world. The diverse product line-up extends from electronic gaming machines to complete gaming solutions, including systems, services, electronic tables, and ancillary equipment.

Aristocrat offices are located in Australia, the USA, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Russia, Argentina, Japan, and Macau. Each staff member is focused on fulfilling the needs of customers at all levels, while the global management structure drives innovation in business areas. Aristocrat’s core values of integrity and respect for the individual and the communities within which the company operates, underpin relationships with all stakeholders. Aristocrat is committed to working in partnership with industry, governments, and regulators to ensure it meets all responsibilities. (Credit: Aristocrat)

HERE COMES VIDEO…THE 1980s

The 1980s saw Aristocrat acquire leading market share in Australia and gain momentum further afield, an example of which was the success of the Aristocrat Elite in Nevada.

The first platform for the decade, the Aristocrat Elan, was released in 1983 and was the first machine equipped with a coin carousel drastically reducing the need for refills. Hot on its heels came the “world’s largest” gaming machine, the Aristocrat Matilda. This machine of mammoth proportions was handmade and extremely popular in NSW clubs.

The Aristocrat Microstar machines were brought to market in 1984, and although not identified as such at the time, they were in fact the first versions of the current series of Aristocrat’s gaming machines – MKI.

Nineteen eighty-seven proved to be a significant year for the company, with the introduction of the first spinning reel video machine, the Aristocrat Microstar II machine (the MK II), and the Goldstar spinning reel video series, to market.

The first Aristocrat spinning reel video machines (MK IIs) were installed in Sydney, and had been designed to reflect the look and feel of two of Aristocrat’s most popular mechanical spinning reel games, Two Up and Inca Chief. They were extraordinarily successful. Performances on the machines virtually doubled as soon as they were installed, marking the birth of a new era of video gaming in which Aristocrat was to play a leading role.

GOING PUBLIC…THE 1990s

The 1990s was a decade of lightning-quick technology during which Aristocrat launched three separate product platforms, beginning in 1991 with MK2.5 upon the 500 series machines that featured a multi-line multiplier. Come 1993, the company put out the 540 series, the first nine-line video game which, in many ways, represents Australian gaming as it is recognised today.

Shortly thereafter, the Mark IV platform was unveiled, a graphically enhanced version of the 540 series that propelled the category’s success to even greater heights. In August 1995, the Mark V platform was delivered, bearing a signature Aristocrat gaming concept, Hyperlink™, an advanced jackpot system. The debut Hyperlink™ theme, Born to be Wild, was placed in Queensland, Australia, and has since spread in popularity to the rest of the world.

Perhaps the most significant turning point for Aristocrat came on 9 July 1996, when the privately owned business floated to the Australian stock exchange. Shares worth AUS$39.27 million were offered to the public at $2.90 each, and Aristocrat Leisure Limited was born.

The nineties was a decade of pivotal international growth for the company, with South African operations commencing shortly after the public float, and in 1998, approval granted for a full membership of the Japan Association of Electronic Amusement Machine Manufacturers. Aristocrat could now participate in two emerging and culturally specific jurisdictions of considerable opportunity. Trade in these markets would signal a departure from the company norm, and the cultural diversification of Aristocrat’s product portfolio.

A VERY NEW MILLENNIUM…2000+

On 24 August 2000, the Nevada Gaming Control Commission approved Aristocrat’s application for a license to manufacture, distribute, and operate gaming machines. Also granted the same year was Aristocrat’s license to trade in Japan.

Two thousand and one was the year the MKVI platform was launched to NSW within Aristocrat’s new Xcite cabinet, an adventurous streamlined design complete with a moulded acrylic top box and door.

This same year, Japanese players were met with the very first Aristocrat Pachislot game, Triple Shooter, just as Aristocrat was completing a strategic acquisition of US systems company Casino Data Systems (CDS). CDS provided Aristocrat with a ready-made systems business including infrastructure, staff, and the leading installed base of casino management systems. The extensive placement of their primary product, OASIS™, is to this day responsible for the company’s international systems business having the highest numbers of Class III casino customers of all manufacturers.

By 2002, Aristocrat’s American head office had relocated from Reno to the hotbed of the American gaming industry – Las Vegas, Nevada - one year before MKVI was approved for distribution in the US.

In 2003, the one-time family operative celebrated 50 years of trade, simultaneously enjoying landmark success in Australia with the first of their 50 Line products, 50 Lions™. Japan went on to record a bumper year of financial results, effectively doubling their previous regional profit.

By 2004, the Australian market had become relatively mature, causing the organisation to shift expectations of growth offshore. The Americas subsequently recorded their best results to date from strong sales of MKVI product, in particular, Millioni$er™, the continent’s first penny progressive slot machine with US$1m top jackpot. A little closer to home, Aristocrat’s floor share in the Sands Casino Macau doubled to almost 50% from the strength of standalone and link products.

Back in Australia, products had developed quickly in sophistication in an effort to drive value for customers in its mature markets. Zorro™, Aristocrat’s original Double Standalone Progressive, a then highly advanced gaming concept, multiplied across NSW and stands as one of the company’s most successful products of all time.

In 2005, offices opened in both Macau and Russia to better cater to the industry’s newest emerging regions. Aristocrat set foot into the increasingly popular multi-station gaming product category by acquiring 50% of Slovenian company, Elektroncek, and partial acquisition of PokerTek Inc, an American manufacturer of the PokerPro™ electronic poker table. Aristocrat's European subsidiary also established an exclusive distribution partnership with company, Aurora, an entity of a Russian market leader, SmartGames, for the Federation of Russia.

From the 1950s to the new millennium and beyond, Aristocrat has come a long way, yet maintains the spirit of adventure than it was founded upon more than half a century ago. Aristocrat currently supplies a wide portfolio of gaming products and services to more than 200 worldwide jurisdictions, and has multiple offices in six different countries. The company continues to be propelled by a momentum generated by unique gaming concepts met with creative talent and sharp business acumen. Whichever direction the industry may take, Aristocrat is committed to delivering profitable gaming solutions for venues across the world.

Media Man Australia does not represent Aristocrat

Australian Pokies

Cleopatra MegaJackpots Cleopatra Cleopatra II Da Vinci Diamonds