Skill Games Industry Attributes Pennsylvania Casino Decline to Online Gambling
Declining Visitors at Pennsylvania Casinos Linked to Online Gambling Growth
Pennsylvania’s gambling venues have been experiencing a noticeable drop in physical patronage. According to insiders from the skill games sector, this decline is largely driven by the rise of online gambling, also known as iGaming, rather than the presence of skill-based gaming machines.
Perspective from Pace-O-Matic on the Casino Visitor Drop
The state of Pennsylvania has historically been cautious about skill games, often taking measures that restrict this form of gaming. Mike Barley, the chief public affairs officer at Pace-O-Matic, recently discussed data released by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board that highlights these shifts in player behavior.
Barley pointed out a clear trend: as online gambling gains traction, physical casinos see fewer visitors. He emphasized that skill games are not responsible for this downturn.
“The evidence clearly shows that the loss of casino customers is due to online gambling, not skill games,” Barley stated.
Despite this stance, some in the industry, including regulatory bodies and courts, argue that skill games occupy a legal gray area, as many machines operate in locations like bars and convenience stores without standard gaming licenses.
Nonetheless, Barley remains firm that the decline in casino attendance correlates directly with the popularity of online gambling, not the proliferation of skill games.
He further remarked, “While casinos celebrate record profits, some operators misattribute the drop in physical visitors to skill games. However, their own research acknowledges this market shift towards online platforms.”
Small business owners have praised skill games for boosting their revenues, countering claims that these games harm the traditional casino market.
Industry Controversy Surrounding Skill Games’ Impact
During the pandemic, concerns grew about the future of skill games in Pennsylvania. Small business owners worried that restrictions or shutdowns of these machines might push them toward financial hardship.
However, some casino representatives challenge the industry’s positive view of skill games. Gary Hendricks, general manager of Presque Isle Downs & Casino, suggested skill games divert customers away from casinos.
“Even on our busiest day, New Year’s Eve, hundreds of our machines remain unused, reflecting a decreased demand amid competition from other gaming options,” Hendricks explained, adding that these machines do not contribute to gaming taxes.
