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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2009
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Casinos Score Big With 1¢ Slots

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(Newser) – Penny-pinching gamblers are flocking to casinos for a cheaper bet these days: penny slots. The machines enable them to play longer with the same amount of cash, and, thanks to modern paper payouts, no longer burden them with noisy bucket-loads of coins. Casinos don't mind the games, either. "Their house edge is bigger" on them, one slots expert told the AP.

Many casinos say penny slots are providing the only revenue on the rise. States are winning too: Missouri raked in half of all casino revenue from penny slots last year, and Nevada drew one quarter of slot revenue from the machines. But one gambling expert says players are deluded: "The average play per spin is obviously way above a penny—usually the 30- to 50-cent range, depending on the market."

The reels of a penny slot machine are pictured at the Isle Of Capri casino in Kansas City, Mo.
The reels of a penny slot machine are pictured at the Isle Of Capri casino in Kansas City, Mo.   (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
Patrons play a penny slot machine at the Isle Of Capri casino in Kansas City, Mo.
Patrons play a penny slot machine at the Isle Of Capri casino in Kansas City, Mo.   (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
A sign designates a penny slot area at the Isle Of Capri casino in Kansas City, Mo.
A sign designates a penny slot area at the Isle Of Capri casino in Kansas City, Mo.   (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
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Casinos just love them because the average bets are the same as the quarter or dollar games, but their house edge is bigger on these games. People playing penny machines are not concerned about that. - Frank Legato, slot machine expert

When you come here, don't expect to win. If you put a lot of money in these you're crazy. - Cora Logan, penny slots player

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freethemall
Apr 20, 09 12:05 AM CDT
I feel sorry for anyone who enjoys casino gambling, unless they enjoy losing, because if you stick with you will lose. Reply
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