Published on: November 28, 2024, 02:33h.
Last updated on: November 28, 2024, 02:33h.
A recent class-action lawsuit filed in Nevada federal court alleges that the Wheel of Fortune slots have been dishonestly taking money from casino customers.
The lawsuit argues that players are misled into thinking they have an equal chance of landing on any segment of the bonus wheel game, which is modeled after the television game show. However, the wheel’s outcome is actually predetermined by an internal computer, leading to more frequent stops on segments with lower monetary values.
According to the lawsuit, this is akin to having a magnetic device underneath the green zero and double-zero segments of a roulette wheel.
The legal action, filed by four former players, targets the manufacturer and distributor IGT, as well as casino operators such as MGM Resorts, Bally’s Corp, and Penn Entertainment.
The plaintiffs claim that the association between the slot machine and the TV show creates a false perception of fair play among players.
The complaint asserts that players are misled by the similarity between the chance-based spinning wheel on the game show and the allegedly rigged wheel on the slot machine.
The plaintiffs are seeking compensation for themselves and other Wheel of Fortune players at the named casinos. They also request an injunction to prevent the defendants from operating these games.
Understanding the Mechanisms
Similar to other modern slots, the Wheel of Fortune game uses a random number generator (RNG). While players may not have equal odds of hitting each segment of the wheel, they all have an equal likelihood of winning relative to each other, which is a key aspect in ensuring fairness according to regulatory standards.
Each segment of the wheel has its own distinct odds of being hit, predetermined by the RNG. The odds of hitting the highest prize, for example, will not be the same as hitting a lower value segment.
All probabilities are predefined by the RNG, which randomly selects a winning payout based on the predetermined frequency of each segment.
Casino slot machines adhere to a theoretical payout percentage, or RTP, which can differ depending on the jurisdiction. The manufacturer sets the RTP in compliance with local laws and regulations, and gaming authorities must approve the RNGs and game codes for each machine.
Over the years, Wheel of Fortune slots have gained regulatory approval across various jurisdictions, including Nevada, where strict laws govern the operation of slot machines. Therefore, the lawsuit’s chances of success appear uncertain at best.
Ultimately, it remains to be seen how this legal challenge will unfold.