MGM Resorts and Playtech Launch Live Casino Content from Las Vegas
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Playtech and MGM Resorts International have announced a strategic partnership that will deliver unique live casino content to operators in the iGaming industry. This new offering, branded as "MGM Live," will be streamed directly from the gaming floors of two iconic Las Vegas Strip properties—MGM Grand and Bellagio Resort & Casino.
Introduction of MGM Live
The MGM Live content will feature single and double-zero roulette and baccarat games, available for licensing in regulated markets worldwide, excluding the United States. This partnership aims to broaden the portfolio with exclusive Playtech games, branded TV game shows, celebrity-hosted trivia shows, and other unique entertainment experiences for which Las Vegas and MGM Resorts are known.
"The launch of this new and exciting live casino offering, in partnership with Playtech and directly from Bellagio and MGM Grand in Las Vegas, furthers our strategic vision to be the world's premier gaming entertainment company. This collaboration amplifies our commitment to providing unparalleled experiences and expands our global reach to our customers," said Bill Hornbuckle, Chief Executive Officer & President of MGM Resorts.
"We believe the content, celebrity talent, and sophisticated gaming experience that we will offer – all from the trusted and highly reputable brands of MGM Resorts – will be unmatched in the industry."
Playtech's Role and Future Plans
Mor Weizer, Chief Executive Officer at Playtech, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to partner with MGM Resorts, a world-renowned gaming and entertainment brand. This alliance combines the strength of MGM Resorts' global prestige with Playtech's extensive international market knowledge and innovative games. As a leading technology provider in regulated markets, we are delighted that this partnership is pioneering a new live entertainment category and product offering for players in these regulated territories.
Our alliance is built on a shared vision to create an innovative and unique customer experience alongside our commitment to safer gambling. Both Playtech and MGM Resorts are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of player protection and ensuring our offerings are enjoyed responsibly."
As the technology partner of MGM Resorts, Playtech will provide players with on-demand, online access to a combination of next-level, immersive entertainment experiences directly from Bellagio and MGM Grand. Both brands are eager to work with operators to promote a safe gambling experience.
Target Markets and Expansion
Initially, the MGM Live games, which include single and double-zero roulette and baccarat, will be available to operators in regulated markets outside of the US. Playtech COO Shimon Akad mentioned that Mexico and the UK will be the first target markets for MGM Live, with additional regulated markets to follow.
“We will review the feasibility of offering this in the US over time and in line with iGaming regulation,” Akad explained.
“The Las Vegas experience has always been the most unique gaming experience in our industry. [Customers in regulated markets] will experience the authentic sounds and visuals of Vegas and, in the future, experience immersive entertainment experiences,” the COO said.
Innovative Live Casino Experiences
The new live casino content aims to provide unparalleled experiences, with celebrity talent and sophisticated gaming environments that are unmatched in the industry. The collaboration will also include the development of exclusive access to a variety of Playtech games and other unique entertainment experiences synonymous with Las Vegas.
“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,” Akad noted, indicating ongoing development efforts.
Omnichannel Ambitions
In December 2023, MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle spoke about the company’s goal to create a full omnichannel ecosystem in Europe and beyond following the $604 million acquisition of LeoVegas. This move led to the launch of BetMGM in the UK, targeting growth in markets where MGM does not yet have a land-based presence.
“Through BetMGM, both domestically and ultimately through what we do with LeoVegas – whether that’s in Europe, Canada or South America – we want to diversify into digital. We think it’s a meaningful way to continue to reach customers 365 days a year,” Hornbuckle said.
He hinted at plans to integrate online and brick-and-mortar gaming opportunities, with the acquisition of game studio Push Gaming further supporting these plans. “The idea that we could create our own games is really important, both to feed our digital assets, but [also] our brick-and-mortar assets and then ultimately to tie them all together,” Hornbuckle concluded.
