Light & Wonder (L&W), a global leader in gaming technology, has partnered with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) to revolutionize onboard gaming experiences. Through this collaboration, L&W will introduce its Operator Wide Area Progressive (OWAP) table games to NCL’s entire fleet of 18 ships. This integration includes the installation of 200 GM ATLAS systems, designed to deliver dynamic progressive jackpots and a wide variety of gaming options such as blackjack and poker derivatives.
Fleet-wide progressive gaming network:
“We take pride in delivering exciting gaming experiences that resonate with players, whether on land or at sea,” said Niaz Nejad, Managing Director – Americas, Gaming at Light & Wonder. “We’re excited to collaborate with Norwegian Cruise Line to launch its first OWAP table games network. By connecting our industry-leading GM Atlas progressives across their extensive fleet, we’re bringing the excitement of gaming to NCL’s guests at sea.”
The OWAP technology provided by Light & Wonder is set to create a unified gaming experience across all NCL vessels. This centralized network will link gaming tables, allowing players on different ships to participate in shared progressive jackpots. The innovative system is designed to enhance engagement and create opportunities for larger payouts, boosting the appeal of table games for guests.
Ian Donald, Vice President of Gaming Operations for Norwegian Cruise Line, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration in Light & Wonder’s press release: “We are thrilled to work with Light & Wonder to introduce OWAP table games to our 18-ship fleet. This innovative technology allows us to link gaming experiences across our vessels, offering our guests even more excitement and the opportunity for larger payouts.”
A range of exciting games:
The new gaming systems include popular titles such as Blackjack, LET IT RIDE, THREE CARD POKER, and ULTIMATE TEXAS HOLD ’EM. All games contribute to a shared progressive jackpot system, ensuring players from any vessel can participate in the same exciting prize pools.
The first installation under this partnership occurred in August 2024 aboard the Norwegian Breakaway, with additional installations already in progress across the fleet. This rollout demonstrates Light & Wonder’s commitment to enhancing gaming entertainment at sea.
This collaboration underscores the growing trend of cruise lines investing in unique onboard experiences to attract travelers. Norwegian Cruise Line’s decision to integrate L&W’s advanced technology highlights a strategic effort to differentiate its offerings, ensuring guests have access to cutting-edge gaming options during their voyages.
For Light & Wonder, the partnership represents an expansion of its reach into the maritime sector, showcasing its ability to deliver seamless gaming solutions in diverse environments.