LAS VEGAS, NV--(Marketwire - Jun 2, 2011) - American Gaming Systems (AGS), a leading designer, manufacturer and operator of gaming machines with more than 7,000 units in operation, announced today it has entered into a licensing agreement with International Gamco, Inc. for the Cherry Master brand of video gaming titles for AGS to reconfigure specifically and exclusively to meet the requirements of the Video Gaming Act (VGA) in Illinois.
Cherry Master video titles have dominated the amusement machine landscape in establishments throughout Illinois for more than 15 years. It is estimated that at the peak of its popularity that more than 30,000 Cherry Master machines existed in the market.
AGS plans to take graphic elements and game-play features already familiar to players in Illinois and recast the games for placement in bars, taverns and other locations covered by the VGA that authorizes machine installations for the purpose of generating revenue for Illinois that helps fund the state's capital projects.
"We listened to our customers -- those who will be placing machines throughout Illinois -- and it was clear that they believe retaining the Cherry Master brand and relaunching it for the VGA will strike a familiar chord with players all over the state," said Robert L. Miodunski, CEO of AGS. "We believe adding the Cherry Master series of titles to our already growing library of content specifically for Illinois will provide superior entertainment for players and a strong revenue stream for operators."
The agreement covers all approved slot machines from AGS in Illinois and also includes an option for AGS games in Oklahoma.
With roots in the gaming industry dating back to 1996, AGS' current portfolio of products includes Class III and Class II machines, Class III and Class II server-based gaming and wide-area progressives, most with an emphasis on locals play. Privately held by San Francisco-based Alpine Investors, AGS is a leader in the Class II space, providing video machines to tribal markets, and has sales, service, development and management locations in Nevada, Illinois, Oklahoma, California, Florida and Canada, with a satellite service presence in a number of other jurisdictions. AGS' current list of market approvals includes Oklahoma, California, Florida, New Mexico, Michigan, Maryland, Washington, Texas, New York, Louisiana and South Dakota and is seeking regulatory approvals and gaming licenses in new jurisdictions every month.
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