IGT will be rolling out it's new silver strike machine after the first of the year. The demo model was a huge hit at the recent Global Gaming Expo 2. There was a constant crowd of casino execs and IGT had salespersons attached to every one.

After it purchased Anchor Games, the originator of the machines, IGT had neglected the unreliable and breakdown-prone machines now in play to develop the new machine. The delivery system on the demo is much less subject to jamming than the old machine. It doesn't use the hopper system but delivers the strikes from a visible tube situated at the top of the machine. The six cylinders rotate to the winning one, the slide opens and the strike rolls over a ball-bearing type device and slides out to the player. Gravity does most of the work. The new machine also holds over 500 strikes compared to the current 50 so there are far less fills.

IGT has a stated goal: A strike machine in every casino. From the people I spoke to, that is not a pipe dream. Much depends on governmaental regulations and tribal compacts, of course. I was surprised to learn that Canadian regs require a slot machine to withstand submersion in water. (I am now sworn off Canadian ships.)

The same machine was also used to deliver Elizabeth Taylor jewelry in a larger plastic case. The jewelry will be redeemable for cash (either $100 or $300) and come with an appraisal certificate. Lots of items will be able to be used as prizes depending on player interest.