ACEP launches freeplay poker, confirms Ongame deal
Las Vegas-headquartered casino operator confirms Ongame will be its real-money poker partner through its deal with Bally Technologies .
The online arm of American Casino & Entertainment Properties (ACEP) has officially launched its freeplay poker site and confirmed a deal to use the Amaya-owned Ongame software for its real-money offering.
ACEP Interactive’s acePLAYpoker.com goes live today and will offer players the opportunity to play poker for virtual chips and the chance to win a series of exclusive prizes including show tickets, merchandise and free hotel stays at the casino group’s properties.
The launch follows last September’s announcement from ACEP, which owns four casino properties including the Stratosphere Casino in Las Vegas, that it had signed a deal with Bally Technologies to launch online poker in Nevada.
Yesterday Bally itself announced it has extended its agreement with Amaya Gaming and that Ongame was to become its preferred online poker partner.
The deal opens the door for Ongame software, acquired by Amaya for 15m from bwin.party last year, to be integrated into Bally’s casino partners including ACEP Interactive and Connecticut-based Mohegan Sun.
Alec Driscoll, director of gaming development for ACEP (pictured), said: “With the launch of this free to play website, we can now bring the excitement of play found at our properties to anyone with Internet access, no matter their location. We are also positioning ACEP and acePLAYpoker.com for the potential approval of legalised online gaming.”
The system will be integrated with the casino management system of ACEP’s bricks and mortar properties, allowing the operator to track player behavior both online and on the gambling floor.