Rhode Island has introduced online casino gaming as Bally's Corporation launches its iGaming platform.
This initiative, making Rhode Island just the seventh state in the nation to embrace online casino gaming, will provide customers access to a range of slots and table games via desktop or iOS mobile devices.
Following a four-day technical trial period that commenced on 1 March, select guests were invited to test the new online gaming program, leading up to the public launch that was scheduled for today.
Craig Eaton, President of Bally's Rhode Island Operations, said: “We are pleased to launch this new gaming product which is borne out of our partnership with the General Assembly, Governor McKee and our regulators, the RI Department of Revenue, Division of Lottery, Department of Business Regulation and RI State Police to enhance state revenue and better position the State’s casinos in the competitive New England gaming market.”
To access Rhode Island's online gaming, users must meet age and location requirements, being at least 21 years old and physically present within the state. Registration involves creating an online account through the Bally Casino app or visiting the official website.
Senate President Dominick Ruggerio, commented: “iGaming will ensure that Rhode Island remains at the forefront of the competitive gaming industry, reinforcing a critical revenue stream for the state while providing an alternative form of entertainment. It builds upon other steps we have taken to better position Rhode Island in the gaming and hospitality industries, including a new partnership with CCRI to train Rhode Islanders for good paying, secure job opportunities in gaming and related areas of the hospitality industry.”
In preparation for the launch, Bally's Corporation partnered with Stakelogic, a live table games supplier, to provide software and studio technology. Approximately 170 slot games, along with live dealer table games such as blackjack and roulette, will be initially offered, with plans for further expansion.
Moreover, Bally's investment in infrastructure has resulted in the construction of a 4,000-square-foot Live Dealer Table Games studio at its Lincoln, Rhode Island casino, with expectations of creating 50 to 75 new jobs.
Legal online casino gambling is seen as an inevitability in a number of US states. Exactly when it will be legalised in each of them is more of a mystery, however.
While sports betting is already legal in over 38 US regions, iGaming has been far slower to launch. Rhode Island, though, presents lucky number seven so far.
