A Video Lottery Terminal or VLT is a gaming machine that allows gamblers to bet on the outcome of a video game.
A VLT is similar to slots, except that it is connected to a centralized computer system that determines the outcome of each wager using a random number generator. Although the outcome of each wager is random, VLT operators are able to program in advance the total amount and number of payouts that its central computer system will allow at its connected VLTs. In this manner, VLTs can be thought of as computerized scratch-off lottery tickets.
Further, Racino VLT’s are treated differently than others.
Racinos differ from traditional VLTs in that all video lottery games are played on a Class II gaming machine. Class II games are played in a traditional Bingo format.
Other states that have legalized Class II VLTs in racinos are Delaware, Rhode Island, Louisiana, New York, and West Virginia.
And even more close to home for most gamblers.
Currently, only Oregon and South Dakota employ Class III gaming technology into their VLT games. This means that unlike any of the Class II states, Oregon and South Dakota lottery players compete against a house edge rather than other lottery players. This is the same type of gaming offered in Nevada, Connecticut and Atlantic City. Currently, the state of Oregon offers its players a 91-95% payout on each of its games. South Dakota offers an 88% payout.
Most US jurisdictions do not allow VLTs and those that do have attracted the same criticism the Canadian provinces have. However, some non-players have expressed tolerance for the machines.
I have plenty of reasons to stay away from VLT’s, and given the choice I’d stay away from them because I’m not very familiar and because of that don’t trust them. Everything I read about VLT’s has a negative tilt so I’ll just stay away.
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good stuff. I had no idea VLTs weren’t synonymous with Class II slots AND that racino VLTs were different from ‘normal’ VLTs.
I really don’t understand why race tracks just can’t go with true Class III slots. A track is already a ‘place of gambling’. I’m guessing it’s easier/cheaper to implement VLTs than true class 3 slots. I can understand if bars want to install VLTs; they don’t have the capital to go all the way to class 3.
While those in the know would certainly never play them, they must be pretty popular, as that’s all they have in Delaware. I’m always reading about people heading down to one of those racinos.
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