Physical skill games are functionally similar to slot machines and therefore illegal under state law, the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania ruled on Monday.
The state’s highest court overturned two lower court rulings from 2023 and 2024, which had permitted skill gaming machines in retail and hospitality locations to operate. This decision could have significant implications for the state’s casinos and their revenue streams.
The ruling clarifies that these skill games fall under the same category as slot machines, which are tightly regulated in Pennsylvania. It is expected to lead to the removal of such machines from various establishments across the state.
