There has been some debate in recent times over the risk versus reward of investing in intellectual property for gaming purposes. Increasingly, the view is that it isn’t necessarily worth it. But securing the IP for one of America’s most loved game shows is a whole other beast.
BetMGM has secured the IP to collaborate with IGT to bring a Wheel of Fortune online casino to New Jersey in a US first.
As the debut brand-led online casino in the US, the Wheel of Fortune brand has been a staple of casino floors for a quarter of a century but now has an entire online casino dedicated to its much-loved brand.
Featuring Wheel of Fortune branded slots, additional-themed games and features, the online casino is now available to players in the Garden State.
“We are thrilled to bring Wheel of Fortune Online Casino to players in New Jersey where they can now play for real money and experience the excitement of the beloved game show on their phones,” said Adam Greenblatt, BetMGM CEO.
“We have a great alliance with Wheel of Fortune and IGT and look forward to offering our players innovative and diverse selections of gaming options.”
Wheel of Fortune recently marked its 40th season in September 2022 and this latest move has helped it to expand its brand in the gaming industry, where it has been a mainstay.
Suzanne Prete, Executive Vice President of Game Shows at Sony Pictures Television, added: “Over the last 40 years, the Wheel of Fortune brand has been brought to life in a diverse range of products, including IGT’s extremely successful Wheel of Fortune slots.
“Now we’re excited to see BetMGM build on that success and take an innovative approach to bring the game to more players by launching the brand’s first online casino in the US.”
IGT has held the rights for Wheel of Fortune for some time now and unveiled its omnichannel solution at SBC Summit North America back in 2021.
Enrico Drago, CEO of Digital & Betting at IGT, explained: “IGT’s Wheel of Fortune slots have been entertaining players for decades as the most successful slot theme of all time.
“We are incredibly excited to partner with BetMGM on the evolution of this celebrated theme and witness it break new ground to become the first US brand-led online casino where players can enjoy their favorite IGT Wheel of Fortune slots games.”
