Published on December 6th, 2024 | by Bibhuranjan

TIBO: Casinos Are Betting on a New Slot Format

Acres Technology has announced plans to test its “ticket in-bonus out” system at Gold Country Inn & Casino in Elko, Nevada. TIBO is designed to transform slot machine play by replacing some of the mechanics players have grown accustomed to under the current “ticket in-ticket out” system. The company says TIBO will engage players by issuing tickets with random rewards, including free spins or special offers, even before cashing out.

The introduction builds on decades of slot machine evolution. Once reliant on the clink of physical coins, slot machines transitioned to printed tickets in the 1990s, ushering in the era of penny slots. Instead of cumbersome stacks of pennies, players could use cash to load credits and print slips to redeem winnings.

TIBO, however, goes beyond convenience. By integrating personalized bonuses and using player data, it shifts from passive facilitation to active participation in influencing behavior and encouraging extended play.

Gambling Concerns Come to Light

Not everyone is convinced about TIBO’s potential impact. Critics argue that the system’s personalized algorithms, which push players to continue gambling when they seem ready to quit, could risk worsening compulsive gambling behavior. Experts highlight the importance of “breaks in play” that give gamblers a chance to pause and reflect—moments that TIBO’s systems may disrupt by delivering free spins right when behavior suggests a player might be ready to walk away.

Ted Hartwell from the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling, a former gambling addict, voiced concern. He emphasized that such interruptions could steal critical moments of self-awareness, potentially preventing gamblers from seeking help when they need it most.

On the other hand, supporters of the system point to its potential for entertainment and reward, adding value through custom incentives tied to loyalty programs. Casinos view TIBO as an opportunity to boost loyalty card enrollment, enabling broader marketing possibilities, such as offering bonuses on special occasions like birthdays or upcoming vacations.

New Incentives Shaping Slot Play

The introduction of systems like TITO and, now, TIBO demonstrates ongoing changes in player interaction. For years, innovations have reduced friction, from eliminating the hassle of physical coins to introducing features that promote continued play. These changes are mirrored in new online slot machines, where fresh designs and gameplay features aim to attract wider audiences.

TIBO’s introduction of randomized rewards, such as free spins or dining vouchers, aligns with these trends. Both physical and online slot machines are increasingly leaning into personalized incentives as a core component of player engagement.

Personalized Bonuses, Wider Appeal

TIBO’s personalized bonuses extend beyond gameplay. The system could offer rewards tied to player profiles, such as celebrating special occasions or enhancing themed events like sports matches by offering extra credits when a team scores.

Additionally, TIBO could address the tipping culture in casinos. Machines might prompt players to tip service staff and issue tip-specific tickets that servers could then redeem. While the idea could foster happier employees, critics highlight concerns about technology nudging human behavior, raising broader ethical questions about manipulation.

Testing the Waters

TIBO may eventually expand into casinos nationwide, but the concept must first prove itself in field tests. Casino operators are hopeful about its potential to reimagine slot floors through greater personalization. However, as the system undergoes real-world trials later this year, it is expected that debates over ethical boundaries in gaming technologies will intensify.

For now, TIBO is its own gamble—balancing advanced customization with the delicate challenges of promoting responsible gambling.

Cover Image: Freepik

Tags: casino, gambling, slot games, slot machine, slots, TIBO

About the Author

Bibhuranjan Editorial Officer, technofaq.org I'm an avid tech enthusiast at heart. I like to mug up on new and exciting developments on science and tech and have a deep love for PC gaming. Other hobbies include writing blog posts, music and DIY projects.