About this book:

Step into the electrifying history of International Game Technology (IGT), a true pioneer that transformed the global gaming landscape. From its humble beginnings as A-1 Supply in 1975 under the visionary leadership of William "Si" Redd, this book chronicles IGT’s remarkable journey from digitalizing the casino floor with revolutionary video poker machines to establishing its dominance as the world's largest manufacturer of slot machines. Discover how IGT continually broke new ground, introducing innovations like the iconic Megabucks—the world's first wide-area progressive jackpot—and leveraging popular culture with the immensely successful *Wheel of Fortune* slot machine.

Explore IGT’s relentless pursuit of technological excellence, including the development of sophisticated player tracking and casino management systems like IGT Advantage and sbX, which revolutionized how casinos operate. Trace its strategic evolution through aggressive international expansion into markets like Australia, Europe, South Africa, Latin America, and Asia, becoming a truly global enterprise. This narrative also delves into IGT’s strategic acquisitions, such as Barcrest, Sodak, Acres Gaming, WagerWorks, and DoubleDown Interactive, which diversified its portfolio and propelled it into the digital and social gaming arenas, culminating in its esteemed inclusion in the S&P 500.

Finally, witness the strategic transformation that redefined IGT in the 21st century. Uncover the pivotal 2015 merger with GTECH, which solidified IGT's position as a global leader in both lottery and gaming solutions. The book concludes by examining the company’s comprehensive business model, its deep commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability, and the recent strategic separation of its Gaming and Digital businesses to create two highly focused entities: the lottery-centric Brightstar Lottery and a new, privately held IGT (Gaming & Digital) focused on casino and digital innovation. This is the definitive story of a company that didn’t just play the game—it redefined it, setting the stage for the future of entertainment worldwide.

What You'll Find Inside:

• **Pioneering Video Gaming and Progressive Jackpots:** Explore how IGT, founded by William "Si" Redd, revolutionized the casino industry with early video poker machines and launched Megabucks, the world's first wide-area progressive jackpot system.
• **Strategic Acquisitions and Diversification:** Understand IGT's growth strategy through key acquisitions like Barcrest (UK gaming), Sodak (Native American market), Acres Gaming (casino systems), and WagerWorks/DoubleDown (online/social gaming), expanding its product lines and market reach.
• **Evolution of Casino Management Systems:** Discover how IGT developed sophisticated computerized player tracking and casino management systems (IGT Advantage, sbX) to optimize casino operations and enhance player loyalty through data-driven insights.
• **Global Expansion and Licensing Success:** Learn about IGT's journey from a U.S. leader to a global powerhouse, including its entry into Australia, Europe, South Africa, Latin America, and Asia, and the transformative success of licensed games like Wheel of Fortune.
• **Digital Transformation and Future Focus:** Examine IGT's strategic pivot into online gaming and sports betting with its PlayDigital division, and how its current corporate restructuring aims to create two focused entities: a pure-play lottery business (Brightstar Lottery) and a combined gaming/digital/FinTech leader.

Who's It For:

This book is essential for business historians and technology enthusiasts interested in the evolution of the gaming industry and corporate strategy. Casino and lottery professionals, investors, and students of business will gain valuable insights into market leadership, innovation, and navigating complex regulatory environments. Anyone curious about the forces behind modern entertainment and global enterprise will find IGT's story a compelling read.