Stardust Resort and Casino reimagined
Casino operator Boyd Gaming has announced the launch of a new free-to play Stardust Social Casino app.
The app features a selection of slot titles from the casino operator’s portfolio and is available for iOS and Android mobile platforms. It offers players the chance to earn rewards which can be redeemed at Boyd Gaming properties through the operator’s loyalty program.
Boyd Gaming based the app around the Stardust Resort and Casino
Boyd Gaming based the app around the Stardust Resort and Casino, which used to be the largest casino in Nevada after its opening in 1958. The casino closed in 2006.
Commenting on the launch, Keith Smith, president and CEO of Boyd Gaming, insisted the Stardust name would give Boyd Gaming a “unique advantage” as it looks to expand its mobile presence.
Smith said: “Though the Stardust Resort and Casino closed more than a decade ago, this iconic brand remains one of the most legendary names in Las Vegas history.”
Continued pandemic troubles
During the period from March 12 to March 13, Boyd Gaming was required to close all 29 of its properties in the US. As a result, the operator posted notice under the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act that it may have to let go of 25% to 60% of its workforce.
restrictions to business and low visitation levels still remain an issue
Last week, Boyd Gaming announced it had laid off at least 25% of its workforce in Nevada as a result of COVID-19 forced restrictions. This represents around 2,500 employees with the operator running 10 properties in the state. Although the company has been able to reopen most of its Nevada properties, Boyd Gaming said restrictions to business and low visitation levels still remain an issue.
Boyd Gaming is yet to publish its Q2 trading update, but the casino operator has already seen significant losses in 2020. The company reported a net loss of $18.3m for the first quarter of the year, compared to a net income of $45.5m in 2019. Revenue was $680.5m, down 18% year-on-year.
Las Vegas since reopening
Gamblers returned to the Las Vegas strip on June 5 after a 78-day period of casino closures. However, a recent spike in COVID-19 cases in the state of Nevada has caused concern as to whether casinos will remain open.
Earlier this month, bars returned to Phase 1 restrictions under the state’s reopening plans, meaning those not offering food were forced to close. Restaurants were also forced to close their bar areas. Despite this, casinos have so far been permitted to remain open with additional safety measures in place.