Disney has revealed its plans to discontinue the Marvel slots games that are popular at many casinos. In an effort to maintain their stance against gambling and keep more in line with their family-friendly policies, Disney will no longer offer themed gambling machine games.
No Renewal of Licensing Agreements
Major online casino software providers, Playtech and Cryptologic will be seriously hit by the decision of Disney to end Marvel slots. Cryptologic were the first company to sign a licensing agreement with Marvel Entertainment in 2005, giving them exclusive rights to develop marvel slots games. The deal was extended in 2007; however in 2008, Marvel Entertainment signed a similar deal with Playtech.
Following much dispute a deal was reached and both Cryptologic and Playtech continued to develop Marvel-branded slots games. Cryptologic slots games include Blade, Captain America, Daredevil, Elektra, Ghost Rider, The Incredible Hulk, X-Men and others. Playtech has developed Iron Man, Thor, The Hulk, Fantastic Four and most recently, Spiderman Attack of the Green Goblin.
A spokesperson for Disney has revealed that "Marvel discontinued plans to initiate or renew slot machine licensing agreements as part of its integration with Disney." Current licensing agreements are all due to expire "within the next few years."
The Marvel slots games have proved very popular at Playtech and Cryptologic casinos. With their progressive jackpots, multiple bonus features and graphically rich symbols and animations, the games have become major money-makers at the casinos.
However, while these games are sure to be missed, their absence will leave a void in the market that industry expert, Susan Biddle says is sure to be filled quickly by other brands. DC Comics seems a likely contender for the space that will be left.
Following Disney's acquisition of LucasFilms in 2012, the company has announced that they will also be phasing out the Stars Wars themed slots games that are currently available.
Disney Pushing Anti-Gambling Policy
Disney has said that their plan to phase out these games has been in place for some time, but they are only now going public. According to a Disney spokesperson, themed gambling machines are not in line with the anti-gambling and family-friendly policies that Disney is trying to maintain.
"We oppose the legalization of so-called destination resort casinos because this major expansion of gambling is inconsistent with Florida's reputation as a family-friendly destination," stated Andrea M. Finger of the Walt Disney Resort.