Aristocrat Shows Off New Lineup of Games at G2E Las Vegas

Article by : Erik Gibbs Oct 10, 2024

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Aristocrat Gaming is ready to introduce a new lineup of innovative products, including the next iteration of its wildly popular Dragon Link game, new high-tech gaming cabinets, and a game aimed at a new market that offers players control over their losses and time-on-device. The company showcased these advancements at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E), where approximately 90% of its display was dedicated to fresh offerings.

One standout from the new lineup is Phoenix Link, a medium- to high-volatility game that Cody Herrick, VP of Commercial Strategy, referred to as the “spiritual successor” of Dragon Link. Phoenix Link introduces a unique twist on the hold-and-spin mechanic, offering the possibility of triggering two or three bonuses from a single symbol.

Phoenix Link benefits from the latest developments in the slot industry since Dragon Link’s debut seven years ago. This multi-denomination game is configurable, allowing players to wager anywhere from $0.01 to $10 per spin, with a maximum bet of $300.

Players can also choose between different line counts based on their credit denomination, ranging from 50 to 100 lines for penny credits and five to 10 lines for $1 or higher bets. Additionally, cash-on-reel symbols can display multiple values, including the chance of winning up to a triple major jackpot.

Over the past two months, Aristocrat has demonstrated Phoenix Link across the country, and Gissane reported overwhelming excitement from customers. The game is expected to appear on casino floors across North America later this month.

Aristocrat is also launching its new Baron cabinets in two configurations: dual-screen and portrait. The dual-screen model will debut in North America within the next two months, with plans for international release next year.

These cabinets feature integrated dynamic lighting on the side and back, which responds to gameplay, enhancing the immersive experience. The cabinet includes two 27-inch UHD 4K monitors and a 27-inch topper that can function as a third screen, displaying gameplay and jackpot features. Other features include 5.1 surround sound, improved wireless charging, and an ergonomic design.

The Baron dual-screen model will initially launch with three game families: Buffalo Gold Cash Collection, Ju Cai Jin Gui, and Bao Zhu Zhao Fu. More games will follow in the next quarter. Meanwhile, the portrait-style screen cabinet is anticipated for release in spring or summer 2025, but it is already available for viewing at Aristocrat’s G2E booth.

Aristocrat is also enhancing its existing cabinets, such as the Neptune Single, Mars X portrait, and Mars X dual screen. Some of these games will eventually be adapted for the Baron cabinet. Additionally, Aristocrat’s leased games are gaining attention, particularly Hyperlink, a follow-up to last year’s Buffalo Ultimate Stampede, offering players the choice of three multi-denomination games.

Another exciting expansion for Aristocrat is its exclusive NFL slots. Herrick announced that Super Bowl Jackpots, which debuted last year, now features multi-denomination play ranging from $0.01 to $2 per credit. Three new NFL-themed games are also being introduced for the current NFL season: Touchdown Link on the Mars X Flex cabinet, Touchdown Trio on the Marquee five-reel cabinet, and Triple Score on the Mars Portrait cabinet, all set to hit casino floors within the next month.

In addition to these developments, Aristocrat is venturing into new markets, including Class 2 gaming. Herrick revealed that the company plans to adapt some of its most successful Class 3 games for use in Class 2 markets while also developing new titles tailored specifically for Class 2 operators. Aristocrat is also eyeing opportunities in the lottery and video lottery terminal (VLT* markets, aiming to extend its gaming reach further.

On the international front, Aristocrat is targeting new markets such as the United Kingdom, where regulatory changes could open up significant opportunities. Andrew Sackey, Vice President of Commercial for Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, showcased a game designed for UK operators, a market that could potentially see growth with an increase in the number of machines allowed per casino. Sackey noted that the UK may raise its machine limit from 20 to 80 per casino, potentially adding between 7,000 and 9,000 new machines across the country.