Sahara Las Vegas is closing its seven-table poker room on November 16 to make way for a fresh slot machine concept. The transformation aims to deliver a unique experience for slot enthusiasts, with the renovated space scheduled to open mid-December. As poker rooms gradually disappear from the Las Vegas Strip, Sahara’s shift highlights a trend driven by the financial challenges of poker in smaller and mid-sized casinos, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Sahara has consistently hosted four poker tournaments daily but now sees more potential in slot gaming’s profitability.
New Slot Experience on the Horizon
The upcoming slot area will introduce a cutting-edge gaming experience. It will feature exclusive slot machines with access to unreleased games from top industry providers, giving players a unique chance to try the latest slot innovations before they’re widely available. “When it debuts in mid-December, the enhanced offerings will include dedicated slot banks where players can be some of the first in Las Vegas to play the newest test games from top gaming content providers,” said Paul Hobson, General Manager of Sahara Las Vegas, in a statement.
This pivot toward slot gaming follows a similar move by Caesars Palace, which closed its poker room in August to create more space for slot machines while renovating its high-limit slot area. Although Caesars may eventually reopen its poker room, no official date has been set.
The shift away from poker rooms is becoming more common, especially as some casinos consider poker a “loss leader” rather than a profitable draw. Sahara’s decision reflects a larger trend on the Las Vegas Strip, where casinos are increasingly reallocating space for slot machines, which tend to offer higher returns. As December nears, Sahara plans to release more details about its slot-focused concept, which promises a revitalized experience for its visitors.
