Play Meter

fROM THE EDITOR A rose by any other name W e have boldly stated in several recent articles that video poker will be playing a bigger part in the coin-op industry in the future. We have also said that we can't predict whether that is good or not so good. It doesn't matter what we think will happen. What does matter is that we are prepared for it when it happens, if it does. All we can do is inform the industry as to what the developments are along the way. We are all learning right now and are thirsty for all of the information we can get from all corners. This issue is devoted to several aspects of the video poker industry. One thing that has been said is that there is a problem in some areas with the term video "pokers" or video "gaming." The industry is learning that perception is important-perception from governmental bodies and from the public in general. So other terms are coming into being. One such term-the one most prevalent in South Dakota- is video "lottery." What you call it may seem like the least ofour worries. Wrong. Look at whatthe movie industry has done with the familiar "X" rating: they have changed it. Now even though it is the very same thing and the movies with the different rating are just as raunchy as those with the old '' X'' I0 PLAY METER/February 1991 term, it seems that even newspapers can deal with advertising them now . Regulator John Willems sums up that no matter what you call it, "it is still a form of gambling. No name will change the fact that we are talking about slot machines." With many states accepting a lottery, it seems that video lottery is a term that is familiar and not quite as unpalatable to the public as gambling. We talked to several game manufacturers about their view of the future of video lottery. It was extremely interesting. These guys have spent many hours traveling and researching the potential of video lottery. One common thread running through these opinions is their plea to operators to pull together if they hope to be a part of the video lottery industry, should legislation pass in their states. There is always the possibility that outside entrepreneurs could wrangle their way into the positions that operators should dominate. Another vital point is for operators to be aware of opposing groups that have a vested interest in seeing video lottery shot down . Whenever something this significant is being considered, there are those that see it as negative to their interests, whatever they may be. Knowledgeable and informed operators, through their state associations, can do wonders in pointing out the advantages of their side. Even distributors are concerned about the effects of legalized video gaming on their businesses. As one pointed out, this is not the amusement industry. Distributors could be out of business if they are not careful and discerning about the issue. I would like to invite our readers to call us with any questions that may be unanswered. We will do our very best to address them as soon as possible. Don't sit back thinking that your opinion does not count-it does. Operators, you need each other, probably now more than ever. Join your association. If you don't, someone else will be glad to take over what should have been yours . Valerie Cognevich Editor