IGT Supports the American Gaming Association's Responsible Gaming Education Week

LAS VEGAS, Aug. 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), a global leader in creating the games players love and network systems that improve the player experience, is once again proud to support the American Gaming Association's 13th annual "Responsible Gaming Education Week" from Aug. 2-6. During Responsible Gaming Education Week, IGT joins with the gaming industry across the country to increase awareness about responsible gaming among gaming employees, casino customers and the general public.

"While IGT is dedicated to creating new exciting games, we also are committed to promoting responsible gaming. This year, we are pleased to join with the casinos and gaming companies across the nation in sponsoring Responsible Gaming Education Week and educating the public about their 'Taking the Mystery Out of the Slot Machine' campaign," said Patti Hart, president and CEO of IGT.

This year, Responsible Gaming Education Week takes a look inside the slot machine for the first time with its "Taking the Mystery Out of the Slot Machine" theme. This informative week will focus on slot machines by explaining how they operate, dispelling common myths about them and looking at how the games are developed and regulated.

The slot machine has been a favorite among gaming patrons since its introduction in 1899. According to the American Gaming Association, the number of slots in the U.S. has grown substantially over the last 30 years: currently, there are nearly 833,000 electronic gaming machines operating in 38 states. Yet, despite the persistent popularity and easy accessibility of slot machines, there are many misconceptions about them.

Connie Jones, IGT's Director of responsible gaming, will be hosting Responsible Gaming Education Week initiatives at the Company.  IGT is the only gaming manufacturer to have a full-time director who is dedicated to the implementing the Company's ongoing responsible gaming programs and policies worldwide.  

"We are thrilled that the slot machine is being highlighted for this year's event and we hope that gaming operators will be able to utilize the many educational materials on slot machines to enhance player understanding of how these games work," said Connie Jones, IGT's director of responsible gaming.  

"We are definitely adding the 'Taking the Mystery Out of the Machine:  A Guide to Understanding Slot Machines' brochure to our resource library both online and at our facilities, along with the companion white paper, 'Demystifying Slot Machines and Their Impact in the United States'," said Jones.

Responsible Gaming Education Week was developed in 1998 by the American Gaming Association to heighten awareness of responsible and disordered gaming. During Responsible Gaming Education Week, IGT will distribute posters along with the new brochures and educational materials at their main locations.  

About IGT

International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) is a leader in the design, development and manufacture of gaming machines and systems products worldwide. More information about IGT is available at www.IGT.com.

SOURCE IGT