International Gaming Technology made its first video lottery terminal version of Wheel of Fortune available through Gold Rush Gaming. The Illinois VLT operator now offers the game across its locations in the state.
IGT Regional VP of Sales Tim Shortall called the launch significant. “Building on an incredible legacy of almost 30 years of Wheel of Fortune slots, IGT is excited to partner with Gold Rush Gaming to bring the very first Wheel of Fortune game for VLT players to Illinois,” he said.
Gold Rush Gaming operates VLT locations throughout Illinois. The company hosted exclusive player events with IGT to mark the game’s arrival.
Why This VLT Version Matters for the Market
Wheel of Fortune has been an IGT slots staple for nearly three decades. But it’s never been available as a VLT until now.
The game brings instant name recognition to Illinois VLT venues. Players already know the brand from casinos and land-based slots. That familiarity could drive traffic to VLT locations.
Shortall highlighted the competitive angle. “Introducing the legendary Wheel of Fortune game to the Illinois VLT market adds an immediate player-favourite theme to our strong VLT content portfolio across the state.”
What Players Get with the New VLT Game
IGT deployed Wheel of Fortune on its Rise55 portrait screen cabinet. The hardware includes a 55-inch screen, enhanced lighting and modern ergonomics.
The supplier originally launched the Rise55 in May 2025. It’s designed specifically for portrait-oriented games.
IGT and Gold Rush Gaming held a series of exclusive player events for Illinois residents to celebrate the launch. The companies haven’t announced expansion plans yet beyond the initial rollout.
How This Fits IGT’s Broader Content Strategy
The Wheel of Fortune VLT marks one piece of IGT’s recent activity. Hard Rock Bet Casino launched IGT’s Whitney Houston slot for New Jersey players on August 14. That made Hard Rock the first operator to offer the game online.
IGT developed the Whitney Houston title with the Estate of Whitney E. Houston and Primary Wave Music. The game debuted in June 2024 and includes imagery and music themed around the artist.
And there’s more. IGT introduced its first LatAm Vive Las Vegas lounge at Jubilee Casino in Monterrey, Mexico on August 19. Logrand Entertainment Group operates the property and partnered with IGT on the lounge.
The supplier is clearly expanding its branded content across multiple channels. VLTs represent another format where established brands like Wheel of Fortune can reach players who might not visit traditional casinos.
