NFL Tabs Aristocrat Gaming For League-Themed Slot Machines
The NFL is taking its product to a new playing field — casino floors.
The National Football League announced Wednesday it has reached agreement with Aristocrat for a multi-year slot machine licensing agreement in which the gaming company has an exclusive global license to create NFL-themed slot machines for casinos.
Aristocrat also was awarded a non-exclusive license for NFL-themed virtual sports, which is the first foray by the league into that arena. Slot players will be able to customize the machine to their favorite teams, with a target date for the product to reach casino floors nationwide by 2023.
“At Aristocrat, we are changing the game. In that spirit, we are thrilled to enter this agreement with the NFL, whose similar mission made this a natural partnership,” said Hector Fernandez, president of Aristocrat Americas and EMEA, in a joint statement with the league. “Fans worldwide love watching the NFL, and casino players worldwide enjoy Aristocrat games. This agreement presents a new opportunity to reach tens of millions of NFL and Aristocrat fans with exciting new entertainment options on the casino floor and beyond.”
The NFL fully committed to the sports wagering and gambling landscape in April when it made Caesars, FanDuel, and DraftKings official partners. The league’s contract with Aristocrat would primarily impact Caesars, which holds exclusive rights as the league’s official casino sponsor.
“The world of casino gaming is transforming, and the NFL is thrilled to be teaming up with industry leader, Aristocrat Gaming, with their proven track record in slot machine innovation and commitment to responsible gaming,” said Rachel Hoagland, NFL vice president of gaming and partnership management. “Today’s slot machines offer engaging experiences akin to popular video game consoles that our fans adore, and we believe with Aristocrat’s vision, we can bring that exciting gaming experience to fans on the casino floor looking to show their love of football.”
Among Aristocrat’s current slot machine offerings are games such as those based on the cable television hit shows Billions and Game of Thrones and the movie Dune.