Area poker players now have a unique option to play some cards. Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino has unveiled two tables that don’t really require cards, chips, or dealers at all.
The new Jackpot Blitz digital poker tables feature a large touchscreen in which players bet, bluff, and raise right on screen. The virtual cards are dealt automatically and all the action plays out on screen. Adding the two games at Inn of the Mountain Gods expands the company’s presence in the U.S. tribal gaming market.
“We are excited to partner with the Inn of the Mountain Gods,” Jackpot Digital President and CEO Jake Kalpakian said. “The installation of our ETGs (electronic table games) at the Inn of the Mountain Gods showcases the flexibility and appeal of our dealer-less poker technology, and we look forward to offering their guests a superior poker experience.”
Players accustomed to playing Texas hold ‘em and other poker games will find a bit of a different experience. All play is virtual and uses a random number generator to determine results and a fair game.
When a player receives cards, instead of peeling them up like at a real poker table, the player instead places a hand over the cards on the 4K ultra-sensitive touchscreen and the tops of the cards virtually “bend” upward. This replicates the action of peeking at the cards and the player can then decide how to play the hand.
The system also offers real-time tracking of a player’s statistics and bankroll as well, with no real cash or chips actually on the tables. The company, which is based in Vancouver, Canada, believes the product alleviates staff shortages and offers properties a more cost-efficient way to offer poker to guests.
However, Inn of the Mountain Gods plans to use the tables as a way to engage poker fans on the main casino floor. The property already boasts a dedicated poker room, but the new Jackpot Blitz tables are located in the main casino. The property plans on offering some lower-limit cash games and other events using the new technology-fueled tables.
“The interactive digital tables allow guests to jump into the action with ease, creating a gaming experience that is both approachable for new players and exciting for experienced poker enthusiasts,” the resort says of the new offerings. “While future promotions, jackpots, tournaments, and special events are being explored, the focus of this launch is simple: introducing guests to the newest gaming experience on the casino floor and encouraging them to see firsthand what makes Jackpot Blitz different.
“The new installation introduces guests to a modern, dealer-less poker experience that combines cutting-edge technology with the excitement of casino gaming.”
Digital poker tables have been in existence for several years and receive some mixed reviews among players. Some accustomed to playing online or using mobile phones feel right at home playing in a virtual poker environment. Other players miss the feeling of real playing cards and poker chips.
Jackpot Blitz-style poker tables seek to blend some of each game format, keeping the social aspects and strategy of the game alive while featuring the game in a more high-tech environment.
The games have become popular options on cruise ships, which may face spacing and staffing challenges in offering larger poker rooms, while still having the ability to offer poker games and tournaments.
