Casino-Style Game Machines Taken Out Of Local Venues

Many area bars, clubs, and American Legion halls have casino-style games that are very popular among locals. The state gaming commission says they have to go.

You’ve probably seen a trivia machine at a bar or club, either built into the bar itself or standing alone, offering patrons something to do, especially those who come in solo. Some venues also feature games of skill, solitary play options, or pull-tab games that support local charities. Others have featured casino-style machines.

Legal Bar Games in Michigan

Traditional bar games have included pool, darts, pinball, and shuffleboard. Some bars also offer air hockey or foosball. Many feature bartop arcade machines with a selection of classic video games and emulators, while others have standalone machines like Big Buck Hunter and Golden Tee. These games are legal because they are based on skill and not chance.

Pull-tab games, though based on chance, are legal because they are sold to support charitable causes.

In recent years, casino-style gaming machines have appeared in bars, clubs, and American Legion halls across Michigan, gaining significant popularity. However, the state is now removing them, declaring them illegal.

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Gaming-Style Machines Removed From Social Clubs, Bars

According to WOOD TV, state gaming officials have notified bars, clubs, restaurants, gas stations, halls, and other establishments that their casino-style gaming machines must be removed, as they violate Michigan gaming laws. The letter the venues received said these machines are illegal and a violation could get you up to 10 years in prison and a $100,000 fine.

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The fear is that these types of games normalize gambling and make it more accessible to at-risk populations. The games look similar to slot machines, but are allegedly a game of skill and do make payouts in the form of vouchers to be redeemed for gift cards.

These casino-style games have been quietly being removed from establishments in West Michigan and around the state

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