Going Online -- France's largest land-based casino operator Groupe Partouche on Monday confirmed that it plans to apply for a license for an online gambling operation in Gibraltar. The company cannot offer interactive gambling services to French residents because French lottery operator La Francais des Jeux (LFDJ) holds exclusive rights to do so. Partouche launched mobile gaming services in the UK in early February.
Under Ground -- A new gaming site marries online betting with console video game systems like PlayStation2 and XBox. UGX1.com (Under Ground X-Change) is a place for console gamers to bet against each other in head-to-head or tournament-style competitions 24-7. The site has real-time account adjustments and tournament ladders, and players can set their own wager amounts and tournaments.
Backng eCOGRA -- Subject to certain conditions, the Lotteries and Gaming Authority of Malta (LGA) has agreed that operators using eCOGRA software, and software that is subject to eCOGRA's principles and testing methodologies, will be exempt from having to submit to further review and monitoring processes required for a Malta online gaming license. The LGA will, however, continue to conduct its own due diligence inquiries on all applicants to determine their suitability and to review other appropriate areas addressing player protection and responsible operator conduct. The two bodies will also work closer on player disputes to ensure fairness. eCOGRA made a similar pact with Canada's Kahnawake Gaming Commission in November 2005.
New Games -- Roxy Palace Online Casino announced today the addition of four new Microgaming casino games: two video slots, one roulette game and a video poker power play machine. They will debut April 25.