Every now and then, International Game Technology, the world’s biggest slot machine maker, flexes its muscle. That’s the case today as it announces that its DoubleDown Casino Online game will have a version based on Hasbro’s Monopoly Plus brand.
IGT’s DoubleDown Casino division is one of the hottest providers of social casino games on Facebook and mobile. Now players can enjoy the iconic gameplay of Monopoly as they play DoubleDown’s popular slots game on Facebook.
John Clelland, vice president of global marketing at IGT Interactive Group, said that his company is constantly seeking new ways to entertain players, and adding a brand like Monopoly is a big win for players. The slots game will feature bonus rounds like Mystery Wild Bonus and Board Bonus. Players can earn rewards, bump up levels, increase virtual payouts, and gain extended play time.
IGT bought Seattle-based DoubleDown Interactive for $500 million in early 2012, kicking off a big boom for social casino game startups. DoubleDown has more than 6 million monthly players. In a survey of 10,000 casual gamers, IGT found that 25 percent of users said social casinos were unique among other kinds of casual games at keeping the experience of gameplay fresh. Players often look for a wide selection when choosing among social casino sites. 19 percent said the look and feel of a real casino is of high entertainment value. Players prioritize load times, gaming quality, graphics, and variety. 31 percent said they preferred slot games and were drawn to games they recognized from real casinos.
Yesterday, IGT also announced that it would launch its Ghostbusters Video Slots slot machines on major casino floors in Peru.