MGM Resorts Partners with Playtech to Launch MGM Live Casino Experience from Las Vegas
In a groundbreaking development, MGM Resorts has teamed up with Playtech to introduce an innovative live casino experience, MGM Live, which will be streamed directly from the iconic MGM Grand and Bellagio locations in Las Vegas. This partnership aims to bring the unique Las Vegas gaming experience to players in regulated markets outside the United States.
New Live Casino Offerings
MGM Live will feature a selection of games, including single and double-zero roulette as well as baccarat, providing players with authentic casino gameplay from the comforts of their own homes. Playtech has announced that the initial target markets for this new offering will be Mexico and the United Kingdom, with plans for further expansions into additional regulated markets over time.
Playtech’s Chief Operating Officer Shimon Akad noted, ‘We will review the feasibility of offering this in the US over time and in line with igaming regulation.’ He emphasized that customers in regulated markets would have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the distinctive sounds and visuals of Las Vegas, while future offerings may include immersive entertainment experiences.
A Unique Gaming Experience
MGM Resorts’ CEO Bill Hornbuckle described the live dealer product as providing an “unparalleled experience.” He expressed confidence that the combination of MGM’s international reputation and Playtech’s interactive technology would create a gaming product unlike any other in the industry. ‘The launch of this new and exciting live casino offering… furthers our strategic vision to be the world’s premier gaming entertainment company,’ Hornbuckle remarked.
Playtech CEO Mor Weizer echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement about partnering with ‘a world-renowned gaming and entertainment brand’ like MGM Resorts. He added, ‘This collaboration amplifies our commitment to providing unparalleled experiences and expands our global reach to our customers.’
Future Developments and Plans
Plans are already in place to expand the MGM Live portfolio, with exclusive access to a variety of Playtech games, including branded television game shows and celebrity-hosted trivia events. Akad highlighted the excitement of merging Las Vegas’ allure with the format of popular game shows currently in development. ‘If you think of the Vegas attraction and picture one of the world’s most popular game shows, infused with the allure and the charisma of celebrity hosts, that’s what we are creating for the players,’ he said.
Playtech’s involvement not only focuses on live games but also taps into its expertise in developing innovative and state-of-the-art entertainment products for both digital and igaming platforms.
MGM’s Broader Vision
MGM Resorts is advancing its strategic goals to create a comprehensive omnichannel ecosystem, particularly following its recent $604 million acquisition of LeoVegas. In December 2023, Hornbuckle indicated that the company is keen on diversifying further into the digital space, especially in markets outside their physical presence.
Through BetMGM, MGM aims to engage customers year-round, both domestically and internationally. Hornbuckle stated, ‘We think it’s a meaningful way to continue to reach customers 365 days a year.’ He also hinted at potential strategies to integrate online gaming with brick-and-mortar operations, underscoring the importance of creating proprietary games to serve these platforms.
The collaboration between MGM Resorts and Playtech marks a significant step in the evolution of online gaming, promising to blend the excitement of Las Vegas with cutting-edge technology and innovative entertainment options for players around the world.
