Last month Sky Subscriber Services Ltd. (SSSL) announced that after July 21, casino-style gaming would no longer be permitted on its Sky Digital Networks. The date has passed with only a few minor changes having been made to Sky channels and services.
Sky spokesman Richard Flint says none of Sky's Interactive Services have been or will be affected. The new policy was intended to prohibit casino style games, which may only be offered via a licensed casino, in accordance with British law. All of the games offered under Sky's Interactive Services are categorized as fixed-odds gaming, Flint Says, and therefore may remain on the system.
The types of gaming that would not be allowed under the new policy are "banker games," such as roulette and craps.
Avago, an interactive channel that features several bingo-style games, is the operator most affected by the policy, but the effects will probably be minimal. Sky and Avago, having recently reached an agreement, made the following joint statement:
"Following a publication of SSSL's policy statement on gaming and fixed-odds games products, Sky and Avago have reached agreement on a number of relatively minor changes to Avago's services. These changes, to be implemented within a reasonable timeframe, are designed to address any concerns that there might have been with the Avago services. No further action is envisaged at this time."
Meanwhile, New Media Zero reports that Sky could be developing its own Avago-style gaming channel.
Neither Sky nor Avago immediately returned phone call from IGN.