NEW YORK, Oct. 20, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- High-tech electronic Blackjack and Three Card Poker tables are making their debut at one of New York's most successful entertainment destinations, Empire City Casino. A provision in New York State's budget was approved April 1st, setting the stage for Empire City to add state-of-the-art, electronic Blackjack and Three Card Poker tables, two of the most popular casino games. Empire City has been aggressive in its roll out of the new machines in an effort to boost revenues and help retain the billions New York residents spend at casinos in neighboring states.
Blackjack fans are enjoying the advanced technology offered by more than 165 new Blackjack seats at Empire City. Nearly 200 positions will be available in the coming months, with an additional 300 added in the near future.
Players confirm that this new, high-tech Blackjack allows for a faster pace of play without the intimidation of live tables yet plays exactly as traditional casino Blackjack, sans handheld cards and chips. The game sets up betting stations with a virtual dealer offering electronic cards, and players make decisions such as whether to hit or stand via touchscreen.
With a minimum bet of $10 and maximum of $2,500, denominations welcome recreational players and high rollers. Odds at Empire City are 3-2, higher than the 6-5 odds typically found at most other casinos.
Similarly, poker aficionados are welcoming the new Three Card Poker games at Empire City and can expect additional seats to be added in the near future. The innovative Three Card Poker, the most popular specialty table game of all time, has also been drawing new customers throughout the tri-state area, particularly Manhattan. The fast pace game features three ways to play and four ways to win, allowing players to bet against the dealer, bet on the value of their own card, or bet on both.
"These games have been long awaited by our guests," said director of slot operations Ryan Munroe. "The higher odds on the Blackjack are a big draw for players, and the Three Card plays just like the game card players would see on real felt."
The addition of electronic Blackjack and Three Card Poker could result in millions of dollars of additional revenue for state education, as well as state and local government. According to New York State Lottery reports, Empire City Casino has generated nearly $2.4 billion in funds for education in New York State, which is an average of $300 million annually, since opening as a casino in October 2006.
With over eight million visitors a year, Empire City Casino is one of the largest entertainment and gaming destinations in the northeast. In addition to electronic Blackjack and Three Card Poker, the Westchester County casino also features 5,300 of the hottest slot machines, as well as electronic baccarat, craps, roulette, and sic bo.
"These games are extremely popular and continue to grow in popularity as the market becomes aware of how similar they are to live tables," continues Munroe. "If you live anywhere near New York City and enjoy blackjack or poker, you no longer need to drive for hours. We're just minutes away."
About Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway:
Empire City Casino, one of the largest entertainment and gaming destinations in the northeast, features 5,300 of the hottest slots, electronic blackjack, three card poker, craps, roulette, baccarat and sic bo; year-round harness racing & International simulcasting; live entertainment including the best party, tribute and Latin bands, comedy, & more. A plethora of dining options will satisfy even the most discerning palate with Italian cuisine at Nonno's Trattoria; trackside dining with live betting at Empire Terrace Restaurant; and convenient delicious options at the International Food Court or Lil' Cocina. A new $50 million expansion added Dan Rooney's, a high-energy sports bar, and Alley 810, a craft cocktail lounge rounds out the entertainment options with retro bowling lanes. Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway is located at 810 Yonkers Avenue (off I-87 at Central Avenue) Yonkers, NY, Westchester County, open seven days a week from 10:00am to 6:00am. Visit www.empirecitycasino.com or call 914.968.4200 for information.