JF is closing off the US to NEW registrations

[pevangel]

hi all

i just received this in my email.

We would like to inform you that as of Wednesday, November 12th, our Flash "Instant Play" casinos and progressive jackpot games will no longer be accessible to Jackpot Factory players in the United States.


The good news is you're free to play on our Viper download software using your current account number,
fasrxxxxxxxx . Enjoy over 350 games with enhanced graphics and sound, and our thrilling slots tournaments for edge-of-your-seat action and the chance to win big cash prizes.

DOWNLOAD VIPER HERE

If you have any questions our customer support team is standing by 24/7 to assist you. Feel free to contact us anytime by email or call us toll-free at 1-866-251-2236.

Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to seeing you soon at All Slots Casino.

Best regards,
Shelley Simmons
All Slots Casino
A Jackpot Factory Casino


pevangel

 

[lots0]

Well according to Doyle's Room the decision to pull out of the US was MicroGaming's decision and to back that up they say they are looking for a new software provider... So they can continue to take US players.

Dear Affiliate Partner,

DoylesRoom.com has been informed by its software provider that effective Monday November 10th, 2008; they will no longer be accepting any new players from the United States of America. Existing players from the USA will not be affected by this and will be able to continue playing; therefore, all affiliate revenue generated by these players will be honored. This measure does not affect affiliates located in the USA.

Based on the above, DoylesRoom.com has decided to continue its marketing efforts in the USA and the rest of the world, and to this end we are quickly working towards migrating to a new software platform that will support our efforts to provide security and stability to all USA players and affiliates. Once we migrate to this new platform, our retention department will contact all those new players that tried to join during this transition and help them access the account they attempted to create and by doing so, all affiliate tracking codes will be still attached to each players account.

Currently, we are negotiating with multiple software providers. As soon as a decision is made, we will send you another email with all the details.

In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact your personal affiliate account manager or simply send us an email to [email protected]



Affiliate Program Staff
Doyle Brunson Poker Network

I also know from some other 'contacts' I have that some of the other operators are very unhappy about this decision by MicroGaming.

Sounds to me like that MG spokesman was blowing smoke up infopowa's reporter's rear end...

 

[vinylweatherman]

Well according to Doyle's Room the decision to pull out of the US was MicroGaming's decision and to back that up they say they are looking for a new software provider... So they can continue to take US players.



I also know from some other 'contacts' I have that some of the other operators are very unhappy about this decision by MicroGaming.

Sounds to me like that MG spokesman was blowing smoke up infopowa's reporter's rear end...

Didn't find it's way up MINE though - I would make a gnat jealous

Even now, it gets murkier. Doyle's room have DIRECTLY contradicted the MGS spokesperson about it being "up to the individual licensee" as to whether they extend the ban to the whole USA, or to existing players.

JF also send out mixed messages. On the one hand, they are pulling the Flash casinos for EXISTING players, yet go on to say they can download and play with the Viper version. WTF is the difference, whether Flash or Viper, it is still online gambling, so where is the logic.

Well, there is none, if you take the statement at face value, but if you look at it as a slow pullout, it makes sense to make progress bit by bit rather than have a mad rush for the exit.

Progressives being blocked has some logic, the potential for being unable to pay such sums "under the radar" to US players, so why let them play with little chance of being able to receive payment.

Blocking FLASH games, but not what is, in effect, the SAME game under Viper makes no obvious sense, apart from the above, or just maybe they are TESTING something to do with blocking players based on location using the less used FLASH casinos, but leaving Viper out of it UNTIL they have to implement something that blocks players by location, and want it to work well without teething problems and work-arounds.

The next logical thing to block for US players would be the MPV tournaments, or would tests of this blocking already be under way, and be WHY many had so much trouble accessing them THIS weekend

MPV events can run over many days, if not weeks, and it could be misleading to allow US players to enter, but with no chance of being able to play in any "grand final" events.

Next, US players will be mass bonus banned (which means, run to the exit NOW!), and this will be followed by the total exclusion of even EXISTING US players by some automated means, as well as locking accounts of those known to be in the US. MGS will then join Crypto & Playtech as a software with an exclusion policy for the US dictated at supplier level.

US players might as well develop a taste for RTG now, there is at least Rushmore and Cherry Red if the Club USA and King Solomon's are not to your liking. Based in Costa Rica, there is no real pressure that can be put upon RTG to ban US players at the software supplier level. RTG are not even willing to vet their licensees, let alone obey US laws. Unless the US strikes a deal with Costa Rica, or starts another war there, the position is unlikely to change.

 

[kauphy]

no more progressive?

i got the same e-mail. today i guess soon they will all be pulling out.

 

[brianzz]

MGS pulling out of the US might be the best thing that's happened to any of us in years.. think of all the money we'll be saving chasing free spin bonuses.

 

[Mousey]

More hearsay (but what else do we have?) from an affiliate on another board: She posted that her affiliate program notified her that Grand Prive group (it figures!) will be dumping/blocking all USA players Dec 1.

Use your loyalty points up, finish up any tourneys/promos/bonuses.... grab your money and get the hell out.

Real nice of GP to 'forget' to inform the PLAYERS (in my dreams!).

 

[mercy]

More hearsay (but what else do we have?) from an affiliate on another board: She posted that her affiliate program notified her that Grand Prive group (it figures!) will be dumping/blocking all USA players Dec 1.

Use your loyalty points up, finish up any tourneys/promos/bonuses.... grab your money and get the hell out.

Real nice of GP to 'forget' to inform the PLAYERS (in my dreams!).

Hey Mouse, does that include those that already have an account?

 

[Pinababy69]

It sounds like it Mercy. First it was IP blocking of the banned states, then IP blocking of all states bordering Kentucky. Yesterday no new U.S. registrations at any MG casino. Wednesday no more Progressive games or Flash casino or U.S. players. There's nothing left to do but block U.S. players completely, and December 1st is the date that's been tossed about. Seeing as new account registrations, and partial game blocking will have already happened....that would mean that the December 1st date is for the final step of blocking ALL accounts.

Just as VWM said guys, I'm pretty sure you may as well throw in the towel. It's better than waking up one day with money tied up in limbo, because they gave you NO warning. Play out your loyalty pts, unused bonuses and don't leave any balance sitting there.

Besides the Intertops thing this time, let's not forget the Casino Action debacle a while back. No warning....just oh, they've closed up shop. Even though MANY people knew about it, no one felt so inclined to let the players know.

 

[Mousey]

Hey Mouse, does that include those that already have an account?

Unless they change their minds, Grand Prive will block ALL USA players Dec. 1. And from what I'm reading, they're not the only casinos intending to block us... but I can't find a list, I can't find any clear information and it's driving me crazy.

Come on affiliates, help us players out here....

 

[jetset]

The December 1st date is not a rumour, guys - that has already been given to affiliates by certain affiliate programs - Grand Prive and Fortune Lounge among them....I was sent a copy of the email from Grand Prive which I posted earlier - here are the relevant details for your convenience:

QUOTE

Overly cautious it probably is and certainly ill-timed with traditionally the busiest time of the year heading our way but this, unfortunately, is where the road ends regarding all US-based business. Clearly this development makes operating in the United States very difficult for us and, as such, Grand Priv Affiliates will close our US operations on 1 December 2008, with our final commission payment (for Novembers play) for all American players marking the closing of this chapter in the United States book.

We thank you for your support and I would like to encourage you to join us as we push hard into all countries outside the US (Canada and Europe especially). We are certainly keen to continue our business relationship with you and look forward to doing great things in the future.

UNQUOTE

In my view, the player is the customer of the operator, on whom there is therefore a clear obligation to act in a responsible and professional manner if an exit is planned.

That to me includes telling players what the future holds, putting in place a reasonable timeline and communications service and setting up an exit plan that allows the player to monetise and withdraw all benefits currently accrued.

That opinion is voiced under my personal assessment that these moves do herald individual retreats from the US market by at least some of the MGS powered groups. The only ones I know about at present are Grand Prive and Fortune Lounge, but it looks as if there may be others with these new developments advised by Pinababy above.

I think she is probably right in her speculation on the cause of the progressives switch-off, but I can't figure out why a Flash game switch-off is being contemplated.

I think all MGS powered groups need to consider their positions regarding the United States business and advise their players of their intentions as soon as they can to avoid any misunderstandings.

At present the situation remains confusing, mainly because individual licensees are not communicating their decisions on whether they are in or out of the US market to their customers - the players - and there seems to be no complete plan for affiliates either.

The message boards are yet again proving to be a valuable early warning system for players in my view.

The operators seem more concerned with keeping their affiliates in the picture than in liasing with their customers, and in the absence of player communications I therefore hope that affiliates will keep coming in here and posting the latest information they have been sent by the programs.

 

[Simmo!]

The operators seem more concerned with keeping their affiliates in the picture than in liasing with their customers, and in the absence of player communications I therefore hope that affiliates will keep coming in here and posting the latest information they have been sent by the programs.

I think in all fairness in many instances the affiliate programs and the casinos are seperate operations and I would imagine preparation for exit from the casino perspective is a much more intensive process.


Those two groups are the only groups I am aware of that are pulling out entirely, but I expec others to follow. There still seems to be some confusion over whether it was an MG decision or an operator decision. Strikes me that a handful of the big operators decided to pull out and therefore MG decided it wasn't worth continuing so pulled the plug on everyone.

Assuming this is the case, that puts a lot of extra stress on the smaller operators who now have to rush to find solutions. A cynic might suggest that it rather sounds like the big boys trying to force out the smaller guys, but maybe that's just a by-product.

I fully expect to see MG groups close or merge now.

Of course US law might suddenly all change if Barney's stuff comes off. Only time will tell, but it may come too late for some. I'm still trying to work out how/why this gives MG a problem...surely if it's a payment processing thing then it makes sense to let the individual operators decide if the cost justifies the position.

 

[Webzcas]

Well this is one affiliate that Fortune Lounge have not had the courtesy to inform what is going on regarding 1st December.

If Fortune pull out entirely, then it is a given Carmen Media and Jackpot Factory will also. That will then ensure the domino effect is in place, meaning all MGS properties pulling out.

Which is understandable given the problems with the US Market. What is not understandable is all this cloak and dagger stuff, with rumours doing the rounds and players and affiliates not knowing exactly what is going to happen until it has happened.

I would have thought Microgaming and also their licencees would have learnt from the Neteller debacle that lack of communication sucks. Keep your customers and partners informed!!

 

[Mousey]

Belle Rock is pulling out immediately.

from a bit of a chat:

USA player: so theres no way I can get the download back?

BR chat: Regrettably not. Our gaming licence no longer allow that.

BR chat: The situation are currently our of our control.

 

[jetset]

As I commented earlier, imo as a communications exercise this is at present a mess.

Regardless of who made the initial or subsequent moves, these operators, software provider and affiliate programs have all been in this business for long enough to be well aware of the perils of bad communication and its impact on their players....and their reputations.

They need to remember that it's not just axed US players reading these forums, but customers around the world who may have potential for them in their new marketing efforts elsewhere.

And who will not be impressed by the manner in which things are currently being handled.

At the very least, the operators and their affiliate programs - and perhaps the software provider too - need to get their heads together and share with the players what is going on here.

 

[Westland Bowl]

I really don't understand what the frickin' problem is! For one thing, we have a new administration coming in who are more supportive of online gambling. Also, why couldn't Microgaming wait until the results of the Kentucky case? You can't assume you are going to lose. It appears to me that Microgaming is freaking out unnecessarily. The sky is not going to fall.

I can only think that Microgaming has plans to go public shortly and wants to follow the other publicly-traded Playtech, Wagerlogic, etc. in that those pulled out of the US market two years ago.

Maybe they heard talk about Dept of Justice doing their own "midnight prosecutions" against payment processors. Microgaming may just be shutting down now temporarily until the new administration is sworn in. Ah, who knows?

 

[Mousey]

.....

At the very least, the operators and their affiliate programs - and perhaps the software provider too - need to get their heads together and share with the players what is going on here.

I've only had ONE email communication from any of the many, many MG casinos where I have an account. And that was the email from JPF about them killing Flash and progressives for USA players.

At least the affiliates have had some communication from their affiliate programs. But, strangely enough, players are left (yet again!) to fend for themselves, scratching up info in bits and pieces, with no clue as to what is fact or what is purely rumor.

I am completely disgusted with the way this pull out is being handled by the casinos and/or MG.

 

[Pinababy69]

The December 1st date is not a rumour, guys - that has already been given to affiliates by certain affiliate programs - Grand Prive and Fortune Lounge among them....I was sent a copy of the email from Grand Prive which I posted earlier - here are the relevant details for your convenience:

QUOTE

Overly cautious it probably is and certainly ill-timed with traditionally the busiest time of the year heading our way but this, unfortunately, is where the road ends regarding all US-based business. Clearly this development makes operating in the United States very difficult for us and, as such, Grand Priv Affiliates will close our US operations on 1 December 2008, with our final commission payment (for Novembers play) for all American players marking the closing of this chapter in the United States book.

We thank you for your support and I would like to encourage you to join us as we push hard into all countries outside the US (Canada and Europe especially). We are certainly keen to continue our business relationship with you and look forward to doing great things in the future.

UNQUOTE

In my view, the player is the customer of the operator, on whom there is therefore a clear obligation to act in a responsible and professional manner if an exit is planned.

That to me includes telling players what the future holds, putting in place a reasonable timeline and communications service and setting up an exit plan that allows the player to monetise and withdraw all benefits currently accrued.

That opinion is voiced under my personal assessment that these moves do herald individual retreats from the US market by at least some of the MGS powered groups. The only ones I know about at present are Grand Prive and Fortune Lounge, but it looks as if there may be others with these new developments advised by Pinababy above.

I think she is probably right in her speculation on the cause of the progressives switch-off, but I can't figure out why a Flash game switch-off is being contemplated.

I think all MGS powered groups need to consider their positions regarding the United States business and advise their players of their intentions as soon as they can to avoid any misunderstandings.

At present the situation remains confusing, mainly because individual licensees are not communicating their decisions on whether they are in or out of the US market to their customers - the players - and there seems to be no complete plan for affiliates either.

The message boards are yet again proving to be a valuable early warning system for players in my view.

The operators seem more concerned with keeping their affiliates in the picture than in liasing with their customers, and in the absence of player communications I therefore hope that affiliates will keep coming in here and posting the latest information they have been sent by the programs.

Thanks for the Fortune Lounge heads up Jetset, I had completely missed that. And I 110% agree with you on your other points re: keeping PLAYERS informed.

While it seems Webz received no notice from Fortune, overall it is pretty apparent that the affiliates, at this time, are better informed than the players. And while JPF/David Brickman have done more than any other casino group as far as sharing information, he has not been back to update the thread re: the banning of Progressive/Flash play (although it appears they have at least emailed their customers). Fortune Lounge, BelleRock and Intertops all have reps on this forum.....where are they?

Once again, players seem to find themselves at the bottom of the totem pole. The casinos care more about affiliates, "some" affiliates care more about themselves and are already heartily discussing what casinos they can use to replace the MG banners they will have to remove from their U.S. facing websites. It's my old pet peeve.....if EVERYONE would put the player at the top of the food chain, things would be a whole lot better for everyone.

Kudos to the affiliates who do realize that without players, there is no business, period. And players should keep in mind who treated them right, and who didn't.

I had a thought on the no Flash play thing, and was wondering if it's technically impossible for MG to block certain games ie. Progressives, within the flash client, and thus the only option was to block ALL flash play?

My biggest concern now is that if/when MG goes entirely, that leaves very slim pickings for U.S. players, and will open the door for even more rogue operations to prey upon them. There are those who will want to continue to play, no matter what......and with MG not an option, where will they end up? With whoever will take them. It really is down to a handful of trustworty places left for the U.S. customer.

 

[Simmo!]

I had a thought on the no Flash play thing, and was wondering if it's technically impossible for MG to block certain games ie. Progressives, within the flash client, and thus the only option was to block ALL flash play?

As I understand it thats basically the key. To remove progressives you have to block the lot. I think its only JF that are doing this though - so far.

 

[Webzcas]

I have spoken to my new Relationship Manager at Fortune Affiliates this morning and apparently this was the first he heard of it ( December 1st ). He then asked me for the url of this thread and I directed him to JetSet's post above. Since then I have not heard back from him. I also cc'd DS on the email.

Why the secrecy?? Just come out and make a public statement as to what you are doing. I am not a happy camper.

 

[jetset]

Well, it seems your communication with FL at least brought this thread to their attention, Webzcas!

I have been approached by a Fortune Lounge manager who has denied that the group is planning to exit the US market on December 1st

He has confirmed that new US signups are being blocked, and that blocks have also been placed on progressive play and Flash action for US players.

I'm happy to post a correction to keep the record straight.

BTW, I took the opportunity to make the point that failure to communicate with your players can only result in speculation, alarm and frustraion from the folks who put the bread on the table and should therefore be the top priority.

 

[Simmo!]

Bit more info on the Flash situation. From Star Partner (Golden Riviera, River Nile, Crazy Vegas etc)

On Wednesday all flash and progressive play will be blocked for all US players. This would include Progressives Jackpots in Viper; Flash play as Guest; real based on IP. Play for fun only if casinos wont be barred from playing.

 

[Webzcas]

Happy to help

It still would be nice for them to actually have emailed me back to assure me this is indeed the case.

Anyhow. That is good news that they are indeed keeping a toe in the US Market.

Well, it seems your communication with FL at least brought this thread to their attention, Webzcas!

I have been approached by a Fortune Lounge manager who has denied that the group is planning to exit the US market on December 1st

He has confirmed that new US signups are being blocked, and that blocks have also been placed on progressive play and Flash action for US players.

I'm happy to post a correction to keep the record straight.

BTW, I took the opportunity to make the point that failure to communicate with your players can only result in speculation, alarm and frustraion from the folks who put the bread on the table and should therefore be the top priority.

 

[vinylweatherman]

Well, it seems your communication with FL at least brought this thread to their attention, Webzcas!

I have been approached by a Fortune Lounge manager who has denied that the group is planning to exit the US market on December 1st

He has confirmed that new US signups are being blocked, and that blocks have also been placed on progressive play and Flash action for US players.

I'm happy to post a correction to keep the record straight.

BTW, I took the opportunity to make the point that failure to communicate with your players can only result in speculation, alarm and frustraion from the folks who put the bread on the table and should therefore be the top priority.

Too Little, too late.

What about TODAYS bit of "screw tightening" from BelleRock, where an EXISTING player has been told it is not "Dec 1st", but RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!

Belle Rock have not told players this, and presumably this player found out from hearing about FLASH being blocked, and followed the advice to use Viper, only to find HIS ass had been having the smoke treatment, as according to BelleRock, it was their "Gaming License" that forced their hand.

Now that we have been told that FL are aware of this issue, they will be held to account should they pull any "stunts" with their US players having stated to Jetset:-

I have been approached by a Fortune Lounge manager who has denied that the group is planning to exit the US market on December 1st

This does slightly change my advice, which for FL casinos (US players) is:-

Play off any bonuses, redeem any comps (remember, these have NO WR, and are CASH), and withdraw all balances during the week preceding Dec 1st, however, hold off from actually uninstalling FL, and try instead to access the accounts after Dec 1st to check that there has been no override forced by MGS (which they currently deny, but which I suspect is likely to be the case).

For those FLASH players locked out today, and with no official comment as to WHY they can't use FLASH, but MAY use VIPER (except in the case of BelleRock), try VIPER IMMEDIATELY, just in case this further tightening is not just related to BelleRock.

US players who have NOT been officially informed that they are blocked from VIPER, but merely experience "technical issues", then it is possible to obtain most VIPER download starters, as they are very small files, and can be sent via Email attachments. This should work UNTIL a full block on VIPER is implemented by MGS, or the casino operator (depends on whose "smoke" your ass finds most credible ).

This is exposing the industry for what is is. They (for the most part) don't give a flying *&^% about the PLAYERS, it's a little different for AFFILIATES though, they bring the players, and best not piss them off or they just might promote another brand altogether.
MGS is a PRIVATE company, so they do NOT have to worry about stock market rules when making announcements, so there should be nothing stopping them from being open.
MGS should remember that this episode is being documented in real time on several internet forums, and while they may get away with "spin" on a day to day basis, an analysis in hindsight next year will enable a full trail of each statement, announcement (or lack thereof) against actual actions, or lack thereof. It will be possible to accurately identify who lied to whom, and when (if not necessarily why). It should be possible to work out who KNEW what and when, but deliberately pretended not to, or tried to blame another party.

They should also consider the possibility of legal action from PLAYERS for punitive damages that resulted from any deliberate withholding of information, or any lies told that caused players to lose money by acting on them. This would most likely take the form of a class action, similar to that taken against Neteller for LYING about the true state of affairs regarding the funds "in limbo" after all US accounts were blocked overnight. I do not know what became of this, but it must have had Neteller worried, and they managed to negotiate a ransom with the DoJ that involved repayment of the funds as well as the release of the hostages. IF MGS become the subject of such an action, it will inhibit them should the change of administration pave the way for quick re-entry into the US market, leaving it wide open for it's competitors for some while.

 

[catrina m]

It is time to sit back and watch

I think I will take a break from microgaming, maybe all of them.

Tunica is close enough that the money I save from online will give me a nice weekend where they give out real comps.

 

[RobWin]

With regards to the Fortune Lounge Group where I have been playing for the last eight or so years, I just had a chat with one of their VIP Reps there and this is what I was told...

Looks to me like this is an individual group decision and not a widespread MGS decision as David Brickman had first mentioned...

Connecting to server...

[Welcome Message]
Welcome to the Support Desk.

An operator will be with you shortly. Please have your account number ready.

Waiting for available agent...
Found available agent: MCC agent. You can chat now.

MCC agent: Good day, you are chatting to Valinteno - how may I help you?

RobWin: My account number is frvr00000000

MCC agent: How would you like me to assist you with this account of yours.

RobWin: I've been hearing a lot of talk on the various internet casino forums that MGS are pulling out of the US market...will I still be able to play here ??

MCC agent: By all means yes. We are not taking on any NEW registrations from the USA to our group, but existing Players from the USA are still able to play.

RobWin: And there are no plans of dumping the existing players ??

MCC agent: Not at all, we are still servicing our existing Players from the USA.

RobWin: That sounds great and I appreciate your help

MCC agent: It's a great pleasure.

RobWin: ok, talk soon

MCC agent: Is there anything else that I can help you with?

RobWin: No, that was all, you have a good day

MCC agent: Thank you for playing at the Fortune Lounge Group and have a fantastic day!!!!!


Chat session ended.

Chat session ended.

It could also be that I am a special type of Fish that they don't want to lose as a customer too though...

 

[Pinababy69]

Just to play Devil's Advocate here (Spear, where are you?)....Rob, do you think they would tell you NOW, if they were going to shut off the U.S. players two weeks, or a month from now? Forthrightness does not seem to be one of the attibrutes of too many of these casinos lately. Just the other side of the coin is all. And where is the Fortune Lounge rep? And David for that matter? To put it in print here that they have NO intentions of dropping U.S. players anytime soon.

EDIT: I knew I forgot something, lol. Rob, can you check your download software at one of the FL casinos and let us know if you can access any Progressive games? And also check your account at any of the FL flash casinos?

 

[RobWin]

Just to play Devil's Advocate here (Spear, where are you?)....Rob, do you think they would tell you NOW, if they were going to shut off the U.S. players two weeks, or a month from now? Forthrightness does not seem to be one of the attibrutes of too many of these casinos lately. Just the other side of the coin is all. And where is the Fortune Lounge rep? And David for that matter? To put it in print here that they have NO intentions of dropping U.S. players anytime soon.

EDIT: I knew I forgot something, lol. Rob, can you check your download software at one of the FL casinos and let us know if you can access any Progressive games? And also check your account at any of the FL flash casinos?

Yea, I just did that a few minutes ago and I am still good to go...I can still access it all...like I said, I must be that special type of Fish that they want to keep !!

 

[jas2587]

I just logged into River Belle
an played Tunzamunni n/p

played at Royal Vegas
last night did a nice cashout
sooo we will see

Cindy

 

[cynthial]

From Fortune Lounge Group today.
So they are still cranking out the US Player enticements.


Dear Cynthia,

It has been some time since you last played with us, but if you play this week, well reward you with a 70% bonus.

At 7Sultans the fun never stops!

* This 70% bonus applies to the sum of all your deposits up to $100 made between November 12, 2008 - November 17, 2008, (23:59 EST).

* Make your deposit and we'll credit your account within 4 hours.

* It's your choice whether you use your bonus on one Fortune Lounge account or split it up between your Fortune Lounge accounts.

 

[sdaddy]

Yea, I just did that a few minutes ago and I am still good to go...I can still access it all...like I said, I must be that special type of Fish that they want to keep !!

I'm thinking the same thing: that perhaps some valued players from the U.S. will keep access to progressive games. At three different MG groups where I'm a VIP, I haven't seen any change yet.

 

[cynthial]

And it continues.......




Update Regarding Flash Casino
and Progressive Games
Dear Cynthia ,

This is David Brickman, VP Player Affairs for the Jackpot Factory Casino Group. Yesterday you received an email informing you that our Flash Instant Play Casino and progressive jackpot games would no longer be available for our U.S. customers. I am happy to inform you that the decision to implement this change has been delayed until further notice.
I sincerely apologize for the premature notification but it was simply our intention to keep you informed of imminent changes rather than have you find out after the fact.

Thanks for your patience and understanding.

All the best,

David Brickman
Vice President of Player Affairs

You do not have permission to view link Log in or register now.

Jackpot Factory Casino Group

 

[RobWin]

And it continues.......




Update Regarding Flash Casino
and Progressive Games
Dear Cynthia ,

This is David Brickman, VP Player Affairs for the Jackpot Factory Casino Group. Yesterday you received an email informing you that our Flash Instant Play Casino and progressive jackpot games would no longer be available for our U.S. customers. I am happy to inform you that the decision to implement this change has been delayed until further notice.
I sincerely apologize for the premature notification but it was simply our intention to keep you informed of imminent changes rather than have you find out after the fact.

Thanks for your patience and understanding.

All the best,

David Brickman
Vice President of Player Affairs

You do not have permission to view link Log in or register now.

Jackpot Factory Casino Group

It basically sounds to me like the JFG can not make up their minds as to which route or what recourse they actually want to take regarding banning US players !!

 

[catrina m]

I just got this email:



Update Regarding Flash Casino
and Progressive Games
Dear Catrina ,

This is David Brickman, VP Player Affairs for the Jackpot Factory Casino Group. Yesterday you received an email informing you that our Flash Instant Play Casino and progressive jackpot games would no longer be available for our U.S. customers. I am happy to inform you that the decision to implement this change has been delayed until further notice.

I sincerely apologize for the premature notification but it was simply our intention to keep you informed of imminent changes rather than have you find out after the fact.

Thanks for your patience and understanding.

All the best,

David Brickman
Vice President of Player Affairs

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Jackpot Factory Casino Group

 

[babs7262]

You Know

I hate to sound harsh but ANYONE from the USA that decides to stick with an MG casino is nuts. I dont care if they offer $1000 no WR no max cashout bonuses. Mine are all still closed and to tell you the truth, It was the best thing I ever did besides closing my RTG's (except for one)

Where is the money for MG's gonna come from: Im not a stock market analyst and not counting this recent fall in the market, I see a huge fan base coming from Asia more than ever before, JMO. China is the next rising star in the future , even more than Japan and the healthier they get the more disposabe income they will have.

 

[brianzz]

I guess MG told them they couldn't do it right now so they'd make it appear as if they were delaying it

 

[catrina m]

In my opinion any US player that deposits in MG right now is just donating to a worthless cause.

Give it to one of Bryans list of charitys.

 

[jetset]

And it continues.......




Update Regarding Flash Casino
and Progressive Games
Dear Cynthia ,

This is David Brickman, VP Player Affairs for the Jackpot Factory Casino Group. Yesterday you received an email informing you that our Flash Instant Play Casino and progressive jackpot games would no longer be available for our U.S. customers. I am happy to inform you that the decision to implement this change has been delayed until further notice.
I sincerely apologize for the premature notification but it was simply our intention to keep you informed of imminent changes rather than have you find out after the fact.

Thanks for your patience and understanding.

All the best,

David Brickman
Vice President of Player Affairs

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Jackpot Factory Casino Group

This is absolutely incredible (and damned reprehensible, not to mention irresponsible!)

What are these guys all trying to do - create
confusion?

This has to be one of the worst bugger's muddles I've seen - noone seems to know WTF they're doing from day to day, let alone on a long term, professional plan.

 

[Jackpot Factory]

Update from David Brickman at the Jackpot Factory

Hi everyone,

I would like to clarify some issues here. We decided to close of US players from Flash and Progressive game-play. It was scheduled for yesterday and as such we wanted to give our players advance notification. However, due to technical issues in our coordination with MGS this closure was unable to occur. Remember that we can make decisions but its up to our software provider to implement a proper solution.

We deliberated regarding to give advance notification knowing full well that with technical implementations things can always go wrong. I am proud to admit it was MY decision to send the notification because I firmly believe in keeping players informed as much as possible about what is going on. At the time the email was sent the closure was still a go. The situation with JF regarding the US really should not be terribly confusing. We ARE going to close off instant play and progressives in the near future but we are still open and will remain open for existing US customers on the download VIPER casino.

I posted this question on my

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and I will leave it for this forum to address. Do you prefer transparency even if a situation isnt 100% definite, or would you prefer we wait to tell players about changes that have just occurred immediately after they are implemented but with no advance notification. I will say it very bluntly you cant have both. There are many technical issues coordinating with our software provider that sometimes things dont go on schedule. Would love to hear some comments on this issue.

All the best,


David Brickman
VP Player Affairs
Jackpot Factory Casino Group

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[RobWin]

Hi everyone,

I would like to clarify some issues here. We decided to close of US players from Flash and Progressive game-play. It was scheduled for yesterday and as such we wanted to give our players advance notification. However, due to technical issues in our coordination with MGS this closure was unable to occur. Remember that we can make decisions but its up to our software provider to implement a proper solution.

We deliberated regarding to give advance notification knowing full well that with technical implementations things can always go wrong. I am proud to admit it was MY decision to send the notification because I firmly believe in keeping players informed as much as possible about what is going on. At the time the email was sent the closure was still a go. The situation with JF regarding the US really should not be terribly confusing. We ARE going to close off instant play and progressives in the near future but we are still open and will remain open for existing US customers on the download VIPER casino.

I posted this question on my

You do not have permission to view link Log in or register now.

and I will leave it for this forum to address. Do you prefer transparency even if a situation isnt 100% definite, or would you prefer we wait to tell players about changes that have just occurred immediately after they are implemented but with no advance notification. I will say it very bluntly you cant have both. There are many technical issues coordinating with our software provider that sometimes things dont go on schedule. Would love to hear some comments on this issue.

All the best,


David Brickman
VP Player Affairs
Jackpot Factory Casino Group

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First I would like to commend you for taking part here in the forum as a casino rep/manager and also thank you for trying to keep us as players informed...

I believe that we as customers would always prefer transparency David but in the same regard accuracy in reporting the facts and in that I mean that maybe the wording of your posts could have been just a little clearer regarding this situation...eg: "If all goes as planned with our software provider all US accounts will no longer be able to play our instant play and progressive games after Wednesday, etc."

Also, I would like to know why that we as US customers will still be able to play at the casino but not be able to play the instant play and progressive games ?? This does not even start to make any sense...why can we play all games other than progressives and instant play ?? I don't recall you commenting on this anywhere...

 

[jetset]

The first comment that comes to mind is "better coordinate your efforts"!

As I have said before, David, I commend your efforts to keep players informed here - you're about the only licensee guy that takes the trouble to do it and I believe it is genuinely appreciated.

I'm guessing your question above is rhetorical, because obviously everyone would like to get as much heads up notice as possible.

Unfortunately, if that isn't matched with an appropriate level of coordination between operator and software provider, it's going to result in frustration and occasionally harsh comment.

And you have to admit the stop-and-go stuff looks bad.

I think the frustration is directed not so much at you and your employers as the strangely disjointed and uncertain manner in which these US moves are being presented, which in the wider picture sense is confusing to those not part of the grand plan - assuming there is a grand plan somewhere and not a slew of operators all trying to do their own uncoordinated thing!

That, and the lack of an indication of what the future might hold for US players is frustrating the hell out of everyone...and imo scaring US players away for fear they will be caught short by a sudden closure.

Hang in and work on that coordination - it's nothing personal LOL!

 

[spearmaster]

Allow me to suggest that if a closure was planned and notification made, that you should simply have left it be. There isn't any real reason to suddenly notify people that you've put the closure back, because you're still going to do it. Players would've been happy to discover on their own that the closure hadn't taken place yet - but instead now they think you can't make up your minds.

The alternative would've been to make sure that MGS was ready and able to shut down access to US players, before making an announcement a few days in advance. Assuming you actually did this, and suddenly MGS was unable to implement the procedure - well, I'm afraid they should be taking the blame for that - but no need to pass it off as "the decision has been delayed", which sounds like you made a decision to delay it.

All that said, it's still nice that someone comes in here and is willing to answer for his actions

 

[Simmo!]

I agree with the sentiments expressed above - it's good to have operators updating players in forums, even if the situation isn't ideal. Thanks David.

 

[vinylweatherman]

Perhaps it would help if some EXPLANATION were forthcoming as to WHY some of these changes appear illogical. Where there is a seeming mad rush, and complete lack of logic and coordination, the result is that even a well planned operation can appear as a confused mess.

One point has been raised repeatedly, and this is WHY has the instant play option been planned to shut COMPLETELY, yet only a small number of the games shut out in the VIPER version, after all, surely Munchkins, for example can just as "legally" be offered to US players under FLASH or VIPER.

This is but one example of what appears to be a complete lack of logic in the sequence of events. Why on earth can't EVERYTHING be done on December 1st, and players told that "It is OUR INTENTION to..........." and give a date. If it doesn't happen, it is not a U-Turn by the bosses, it is simply a short technical delay in the inevitable.

Telling players in advance allows them to empty their accounts beforehand, in the expectation that they would lose access later. Now, by saying there is a delay, you have a situation where players are now reinstalling the casinos and making further deposits. THIS IS NOT IN THEIR BEST INTERESTS, is it, since the plan to withdraw from the US has not changed, it is merely a technical delay. It is just possible that the lack of coordination will strike in reverse, and MGS block the accounts BEFORE you get the chance to send out a new notification. You will then have a PR crisis on your hands, mainly from players who heeded the original notification, but then were encouraged to reinstall and play a little longer.

Effort would be best spent attacking the growing EU market, as well as the far east, but bearing in mind that the Chinese government are just as anti as the US when it comes to online casinos, despite gambling being very popular indeed. China could follow the lead of the US and drive you out of there as well, they already have heavy censorship applied at the ISP level, and it should be a lot easier for China to block off online gambling sites than it has been for America. A move to a UK whitelist licensing jurisdiction should be seriously considered once all US facing operations have been closed off, as this will allow you to advertise fully within most of the EU.

 

[brianzz]

Has the US blockade already started with Microgamings website? It's been returned to me as site not available for about 2 weeks now. Anyone else outside of the US getting the same message?

 

[AuntieIdiot]

Has the US blockade already started with Microgamings website? It's been returned to me as site not available for about 2 weeks now. Anyone else outside of the US getting the same message?

Don't know if the US blockade has started or not but I get site unavailable at Microgaming.com also. I am still able to log into all of my microgaming accounts that I haven't closed.

 

[The Dude]

Comes up fine from here.

Honestly, in light of what is going on with the UIGEA, if I were a US player. I would withdraw my balance now from any MGS powered casino and wait it out through 1 December. I wouldn't attempt to make any deposits until a few days after then.

And that date is coming up fast - you've got two weeks

 

[AuntieIdiot]

Comes up fine from here.

Honestly, in light of what is going on with the UIGEA, if I were a US player. I would withdraw my balance now from any MGS powered casino and wait it out through 1 December. I wouldn't attempt to make any deposits until a few days after then.

And that date is coming up fast - you've got two weeks

I completely agree with you there. I have no intention of depositing at any MGS casinos...probably should just uninstall them or close the accounts. I don't have any money sitting in any of my accounts either. Just playing in the free tourneys when I'm bored. I don't think that I'd make a deposit after December 1st either, they'll probably accept the deposit just fine but be unable to pay IF (and that was a BIG If) I did happen to win.

 

[vinylweatherman]

Has the US blockade already started with Microgamings website? It's been returned to me as site not available for about 2 weeks now. Anyone else outside of the US getting the same message?

There you have it.

GOVERNMENT censorship of INFORMATION, and NOT prevention of a particular activity.

This site is NOT offering a gambling service, it is merely the portal for a Isle of Man private company that provides software to online gambling companies.

This is EXACTLY what the CHINESE government have done, they have suppressed INFORMATION, not specific activities.

Naturally, the Chinese citizens have found ways around the government censorship, and are now aware of what is happening in Tibet, and how the international community sees this. Equally, US Citizens will find a way to access INFOTMATION related to the subject of Online Gambling.

The seriousness of this move should not be underestimated, as this not only stops an activity, but SUPRESSES INFORMATION that may be helpful for any campaign to have the law changed in favour of regulation.

Further, where will it stop. What is to say that the same stunt will not be pulled to supress information about controversial topics such as Guantanamo Bay and the war in Iraq from websites openly critical of the US line.

Forget about gambling, take the fight to the subject of internet censorship of INFORMATION, this will win allies from those OPPOSED to allowing online gambling, but who are incensed that their government can prevent them from finding INFORMATION about a controversial topic through the blocking of "undesirable" websites.

IF this was down to the site being seized by Kentucky, then ALL of us would see this message.

For those who find their CASINOS unaffected, could you try accessing Playcheck and Cashcheck, as these are run from subdomains of the "blocked" microgaming.com

For example: playcheck6.microgaming.com/goldwhatevercrapcasino/.....

 

[Pinababy69]

Don't know if the US blockade has started or not but I get site unavailable at Microgaming.com also. I am still able to log into all of my microgaming accounts that I haven't closed.

I can also access the MG home site just fine....Canada here.

 

[Simmo!]

Not sure if I missed this earlier in the thread, but Belle Rock are starting to close all US Player accounts:

As was to be expected along with no new sign ups from the USA there has also been a decision taken to approach the closure of US based casino account in a phased manner.

Belle Rock looks after Lucky Nugget, Jackpot City, Gaming Club & River Belle.