“The recently introduced IGT Cloud will propel the gaming industry to new heights”

What is the balance of this 2011?
As a leading supplier of gaming solutions to international casino markets, International Game Technology (IGT) continued to deliver innovative and forward-thinking games and systems solutions to casino operators worldwide in 2011.

In October, IGT unveiled more than 400 traditional, online and mobile games and systems products at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E). Along with player-favorite themes and spinning reel slots, IGT demonstrated its focus on new players, such as the Millennials, through a pipeline of new and thrilling pop-culture-themed casino games. IGT’s market-driven development approach was exemplified in 2011 as well with the debut of new video slot themes with localized and regionalized themes such as Dia de Muertos and Huevocartoon.

With a continued focus on innovation, IGT annually invests us$ 200 million in research and development. Through this research, in partnership with operators, IGT has developed an in-depth knowledge in order to deliver new, entertaining and disruptive player experiences to multiple demographics.

How was the general gaming industry in a year with an economic crisis that affected many markets?
As we begin 2012, operators will be looking to continue optimizing their capital wherever possible, which is why IGT is focused on delivering a product portfolio that is suited for the unique demands of global markets.

In your opinion, what was the most outstanding news of the year?
IGT has developed the processes, environment and culture to set the stage for growth and deliver market-attuned products and services that customers want and need. This has allowed for new levels of player loyalty and enhanced operator’s ability to efficiently market to players while differentiating their casino floor. IGT is the only global gaming organization with the power to act globally but deliver locally – all to the benefit of our customers.

In 2011, IGT debuted market –attuned games and machines for the Asian market which included the new IGT bluechip Neo gaming machine featuring dedicated Asian game titles. These new games joined a portfolio of titles specifically developed and designed based on regional research to drive value for operators.

In addition, new pop culture icons and blockbuster titles continue to deliver new levels of entertainment to players worldwide. Players will see new Premium Products titles, also known as MegaJackpots titles, that deliver engaging player experiences such as Ghostbusters  Who Ya Gonna Call, Elvis The King Multi-Level Progressives, Breakfast at Tiffany', and Sex and The City.

IGT's unrivaled Systems products continue to offer technology and performance for operators. Server-based gaming tools, such as sbX, and newly announced floorwide solutions like the Universal Gamer Adaptor, offer dynamic ways to communicate with players, unmatched flexibility and connectivity, and the critical tools needed to manage the casino floor, players, promotions and operations. With more than 50 installs in 11 countries, the future of gaming is here with the power of sbX and server-based gaming.

In your opinion, what was the most innovative product or service launched this year? What are the company's plans for 2012?
The gaming business has fundamentally changed in recent years, and IGT is responding to this new landscape by leveraging our scale across the globe and delivering high-quality, localized games, systems and services for each of the markets we operate in – both today and for tomorrow.
The recently introduced IGT Cloud will propel the gaming industry to new heights by delivering fresh market opportunities, breakthrough operating models and dynamic player experiences. IGT Cloud efficiently manages reporting functions and game configuration while delivering value to casino operators by utilizing Software as a Service (SaaS). Using private, secure services, the solution will allow operators the ability to manage game content using IGT Floor Manager and to have access to the largest game library in the industry. The powerful sbX Analytics tool will empower casino operators to increase marketing productivity and maximize floor-wide performance with a variety of reporting capabilities.

IGT is leading the cloud computing transformation in gaming by offering operators innovative solutions to optimize their operations and casino floors. With the debut of the IGT Cloud, IGT will introduce a new service solution which will enable operators to efficiently provide seamless gaming experiences across land-based, mobile and online devices.

While IGT’s pop culture titles elicit rave reviews around the world, IGT also understands global casino operators need localized content for their players, and knows the need for such content will only increase as the gaming world expands. That is why in 2012, IGT ‘s compelling product offerings include new market-attuned products combining the best in gaming technology with localized content, stunning graphics, amazing sounds and great math. Players will have an affinity toward these entertaining games that deliver performance and value to casino floors.

Players in Asia will enjoy new titles such as Azure Dragon and Pearl Dragon as well as the many new themes featured on the IGT bluechip Neo. Halfway around the globe, Latin American players will be entertained by IGT’s Carnival Riches, Dia de Muertos and Huevocartoon. As we build momentum, expect to see more innovations like this that really drive growth for IGT and our customers.

In today’s world, creativity, innovation and vision, which IGT has always had at its foundation, are more important than ever in driving the global economy. IGT is confident that these core company attributes, fueled by our commitment to research, will help IGT continue to meet operator and player demands not only in 2012, but well into the future.

How will be the 2012 for the gaming industry in general? Will it be similar to 2011? Do you think that we will see a growth in the activity?
As technology continues to rapidly evolve, society has become used to instantaneous access to multiple content streams from various media, and casinos will be no different. The ability to give players access to what they want at any given time will become key, as options for players have increased and resulted in unprecedented choice. Competition also will drive improved product and content solutions, all to the benefit of the player.