Published on: December 13, 2025, 09:13h.
Updated on: December 13, 2025, 09:15h.
- Prime Skill Games launches legal action against AGCO regarding the removal of its machines
- CEO states the company is seeking a stay of enforcement pending the court’s decision
- AGCO claimed that Prime Skill machines are illegal games of chance and removed them from various establishments across the province
In our previous discussion with Prime Skill Games CEO Matt Zamrozniak, he was preparing for a legal showdown against the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). The AGCO had reportedly confiscated machines that they deemed unapproved electronic gambling devices from bars, restaurants, and retail locations throughout the province.
That conversation took place last Fall. In July, AGCO issued a notice indicating it had revoked the licenses of several retailers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) found to be operating what AGCO described as unauthorized electronic gambling equipment under the Prime Slot brand.
In September, AGCO publicized the findings of a province-wide enforcement operation that led to the removal of 50 Prime Slot machines, which were purportedly functioning unlawfully and lacking regulatory oversight.
Legal and PR Strategy
AGCO asserted in a statement that, while marketed as skill-based games, testing revealed that Prime Slots machines are chance-dependent and, therefore, not permitted under Canadian law unless supplied by a licensed provider and utilized in a regulated environment like a casino. A significant aspect of AGCO’s stance is ensuring minors are safeguarded from these machines.
Zamrozniak countered that Prime Skill is fundamentally about strategy, concentration, and decision-making, not mere chance. His company is actively engaged in a legal and public relations campaign to counter AGCO’s claims.
Minors’ Safety Emphasis
The company recently released a “Public Interest Compliance Declaration,” which prioritizes the protection of minors.
“Our system is intentionally designed to create barriers rather than allure for underage users,” he stated. This includes mandatory +19 signage, staff age verification for every cash payout coupled with player identification, removal of anonymity, and a design that discourages fast gameplay, bright distractions, and compulsive reinforcement.
As Prime Skill undertakes legal action, its objective remains to secure a stay of enforcement until the matter is heard in court, Zamrozniak noted.
Lack of Communication from AGCO
“AGCO has never formally determined that our product is illegal, has not initiated legal proceedings against us, and has never engaged us meaningfully to evaluate our system’s compliance,” he remarked.
“Throughout this process, AGCO has heavily relied on procedural tactics that seem more aimed at delaying true evaluation rather than resolving whether our system complies with existing laws based on factual evidence and technical analysis.”
“This is precisely why we have brought the issue to court. We seek clarity, fairness, and a comprehensive evaluation—not preferential treatment.”
Request for Stay of Enforcement
Zamrozniak emphasized the company’s desire for an “evidence-based outcome” through the judicial process.
He mentioned that within the coming week, his team will initiate a social media campaign as part of their communications strategy to raise awareness about their current situation and the broader landscape of skill-based gaming.
“I chose to disclose everything publicly,” he asserted. “This encompasses our Declaration, our actions, and the ongoing status of the court case. AGCO’s actions have considerably tarnished our reputation, and transparency is vital to rectify the narrative.
“As part of this initiative, I have reached out personally to key personnel including the Premier of Ontario, the Attorney General, the Ombudsman, and other public figures to demand accountability and action. My aim is straightforward: to secure fairness, transparency, and justice.”
AGCO’s Position on Machine Removals
In response to inquiries regarding the current situation from their perspective, an AGCO spokesperson offered the following:
“After conducting internal tests via our gaming laboratory, AGCO determined that Prime Slots machines are indeed unapproved gambling devices. In accordance with that finding, we instructed licensed venues and lottery retailers to eliminate Prime Slots terminals, and we have succeeded in achieving these removals throughout Ontario. We remain diligent—through inspections and enforcement—to prevent illegal gambling devices, including Prime Slots, from being accessible in bars, restaurants, or lottery retail locations across Ontario.”
Zamrozniak stated that the AGCO’s actions have effectively rendered their operations unviable in Ontario.
“The financial repercussions have been drastic, to the extent that discussing specific losses distracts from the more significant concern,” he explained. “We are functioning on a precarious edge. What is even more detrimental than the immediate financial impact is the ongoing uncertainty. The persistent delay and lack of a clear resolution hinder our ability to plan, invest, and operate responsibly. Nevertheless, we refuse to back down. We are prepared, resilient, and committed to seeing this through appropriately.”
Exploring U.S. Markets
Zamrozniak noted that the company is also investigating opportunities in the United States market, particularly in Pennsylvania and Texas. Initial discussions have been initiated, representing a natural expansion for the business.
“We are the sole skill game system in the market designed with public interest and minor protection in mind,” he asserted. “I am ready to substantiate that claim.”