American Gaming Systems partnered with Sandia Resort & Casino to bring Mariachi Fortunes Trio slots to New Mexico. The Albuquerque property gets exclusive access first.
AGS soft launched the game on October 15. Sandia guests could play it before other New Mexico casinos got access. The slot supplier’s been rolling out this title across the country since July.
Mark DeDeaux, AGS SVP and GM of Slots, commented on the launch. “Mariachi Fortunes Trio has seen tremendous success since its debut in July and continues to build momentum across the country,” he said.
Why This Launch Got Special Treatment
The game’s already proven itself in other markets. So AGS and Sandia threw a proper party for the New Mexico debut.
Over 300 VIP guests showed up to the celebration event. The property went all-in on the theme (Fiesta de los Vivos and Fiesta de las Calacas). Free-play sessions ran throughout the night.
And players hit it big. The event generated more than 20 hand-pays totaling close to $75,000. That’s serious money for a launch party. “These games, along with their immersive theme, rich features and stellar bonus options, being first to market in New Mexico is a celebration of the fan-favorite brand and our special partnership with Sandia,” DeDeaux added.
What Happened at the Launch Event
AGS and Sandia executives held a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Property employees joined them to officially mark the game’s state debut. The ceremony kicked things off before guests could start playing.
The celebration borrowed elements from the game’s Mexican-inspired themes. It wasn’t the first time AGS used this playbook, though.
Back in July, the company did something similar. They held dual property premieres at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino in southern California and Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. Those events transformed casino floors into Mexico-style plazas with folklorico dancers, live mariachi bands and decorated street carts.
How AGS Plans to Expand in New Mexico
The Sandia exclusive won’t last forever. Other New Mexico casinos will get access to Mariachi Fortunes Trio after the initial period ends.
The slot portfolio includes multiple games with different features. Players can choose between the Fiesta de los Vivos and Fiesta de las Calacas themes. Both offer different bonus options and gameplay mechanics.
AGS is building on July’s momentum with this regional rollout strategy. The company gave Sandia first-mover advantage in the state. But the game’s national success (proven at properties in California and Nevada) suggests other New Mexico operators will want it too.
The launch shows how suppliers use exclusive partnerships to enter new markets while keeping existing partners happy.
