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This past week marked a turning point for iGaming in one state, while two others launched new initiatives to reshape the gambling landscape.
Indiana passes sweepstakes casino ban
A bill that would outlaw sweepstakes casinos in the Hoosier State cleared its final legislative hurdles this past week and is now headed to Gov. Mike Braun’s desk. If signed, the bill would make it illegal for sweepstakes casinos to operate within Indiana’s borders.
Bans on sweepstakes models are becoming increasingly common. For instance, Michigan and New Jersey—both of which host robust, regulated online casino markets—have already moved to push out sweepstakes operators.
While these platforms often brand themselves as “free-to-play,” they offer sweepstakes coins for purchase that can be redeemed for cash prizes. The American Gaming Association estimates the sweepstakes casino industry generates more than $1 billion in annual revenue.
Because these sites lack the same regulatory oversight as standard online casinos and sportsbooks, states cannot collect tax revenue from them. Furthermore, the industry argues these sites create “gray market” competition for regulated brick-and-mortar and online operators.
Hacksaw Gaming expands to West Virginia
Game studio Hacksaw Gaming announced a partnership with Delaware North, which operates two West Virginia casinos: Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack and Mardi Gras Casino & Resort.
Through the deal, Hacksaw will provide its catalog of online casino games via Betly, the platform powering Delaware North’s iGaming operations.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Delaware North; their dedication to player experience makes them an ideal partner for us,” a Hacksaw representative said.
“We’re excited to deliver a top-tier catalog of content to West Virginian players and look forward to what’s ahead.”
Plaza Hotel debuts Vegas Live Casino Network
Las Vegas’ Plaza Hotel & Casino has launched a live feed of its nonsmoking gaming floor, dubbed the Vegas Live Casino Network (VLCN). While the stream does not allow remote viewers to participate in the gambling, onlookers can watch the action at baccarat, blackjack, roulette, and slot tables.
The stream runs from 6 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday.
The Plaza is marketing the stream as a hub for fans to watch gaming influencers, and as a way for gamblers to share their experiences with friends and family in real time.
“Imagine telling your friends and family back home to tune in and watch you hit a jackpot live on VLCN,” the company noted on its website.
The strategy appears designed to captivate Gen Z and millennial audiences—demographics that highly value influencer content—and encourage them to visit in person or engage with legal online platforms.
