International Game Technology Links States with Jackpot Network

International Game Technology has announced that it has successfully connected casino properties in New Jersey and South Dakota, in the first commercial multistate Wide Area Progressive jackpot network in the US.

The gaming products designer and manufacturers have developed Powerbucks, a multistate WAP that works as an add-on to titles that links progressive pools between participating jurisdictions.

Machines in the Deadwood area of South Dakota are now linked up with Caesars Entertainment and Boyd Gaming properties in New Jersey.

Both operators have also agreed to add their Nevada properties to the Powerbucks link up after they gain regulatory approval from those in charge of US gambling laws.

The news comes shortly after outlets reported that IGT and Caesars Entertainment were to launch the first multistate progressive jackpot network in the US.

“Linking the Deadwood, South Dakota, properties and New Jersey properties with Powerbucks is an exciting occasion,” IGT’s vice-president of product management and global product development, Joe Sigrist, said.

“Bringing industry-first innovation and truly transformative gaming experiences to the players who crave it, is at the core of what IGT does.’’

“The company looks forward to the expansion of Powerbucks and creating jackpot mania like never before.”

DoubleDown Online

Meanwhile, IGT has also announced the appointment of Will Daugherty as general manager of its DoubleDown Interactive mobile casino social gaming business.

Daugherty, who most recently served as vice-president of Amazon Payments, has also held senior roles at Expedia, AT&T Wireless and McKinsey & Company.

In his new role, Daugherty will oversee day-to-day management of DoubleDown Interactive, with a focus on continuing to grow revenue and players base while expanding distributions platforms.