A new class-action lawsuit filed in Nevada federal court challenges IGT's popular Wheel of Fortune slots, claiming the game "systematically defrauds" players through its bonus wheel mechanism.

The lawsuit, filed by four former players, alleges that the bonus wheel deceives players by appearing to be a mechanical wheel with equal chances of landing on any segment, similar to roulette. However, the plaintiffs argue that outcomes are predetermined by an internal computer programmed to favor lower-value segments.

The complaint targets both manufacturer IGT and casino operators including MGM Resorts, Bally's Corp, and Penn Entertainment. It claims the game's association with the TV show misleads players into believing they have equal odds of winning all prizes, similar to the show's mechanical wheel.

Key points about slot machine operation:

• All modern slots use Random Number Generators (RNGs)
• Players have different odds for hitting each prize amount
• All players have equal chances of winning specific amounts
• Regulators approve predetermined odds for each segment
• Machines must maintain specific Return to Player (RTP) percentages
• Casinos cannot modify RTPs without regulatory approval

The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages for plaintiffs and all Wheel of Fortune players at defendant casinos, plus an injunction against operating the games. However, since Nevada has legally authorized and regulated these machines through the Gaming Commission, the lawsuit may face significant challenges in federal court.

Related Articles

Previous Articles