The decision comes as part of the group’s efforts to seek financial restructuring following a recent garnishment judgement against Aruze resulting from a separate judgement against Aruze’s shareholder.

The developer noted that it intends to continue operating normally and utilise Chapter 11 protections to provide for an orderly consideration of the relative rights of the company’s creditors, customers and employees.

“This filing was a critical business strategy we were forced to make due to external factors outside our control,” said Aruze Gaming Global CEO Yugo Kinoshita. “We fully understand the implications associated with this action, but we believe this is the best way for Aruze to maintain the overall health of our business.

“This restructuring has no reflection on the health of Aruze. We’re proud of the advances we have made to establish Aruze as a casino mainstay. We are highly confident this action will protect our brand, our legacy and our suite of games. As we progress through this process, we are assured that Aruze will emerge as an even stronger company.”

Last month, Aruze Gaming Europe announced its first office in Europe, with the aim of providing dedicated sales and service support to its European, Middle Eastern and North African market bases. The fact that a new office has opened in Europe seems to be the biggest suggestion that it is indeed the American business filing for bankruptcy.

Also in January 2022, Aruze signed a new deal with BetMGM and celebrated it by launching four new slot titles on BetMGM’s platform in New Jersey.