You may be aware of recent news articles concerning no-chance gaming devices and questions about whether they comply with Missouri law. They comply with Missouri law and are actively working to counter the false narratives that are being put out. This is your chance to have some facts and show your support.

These Devices Are Not "Video Lottery Terminals"

You have probably seen articles that refer to "Video Lottery Terminals" or "VLTs." This terminology is itself misleading. A "lottery" is, by definition, a game of chance. Torch's devices are specifically designed as "no chance games"—the very name reflects that chance has been removed from the equation. If there is no chance, there is no lottery. A "Video Lottery Terminal" that involves no lottery is a contradiction in terms. Early in the process, Torch had its devices examined by an expert on gaming devices who confirmed that these devices have no element of chance.

As City of Springfield, Missouri Police Chief Paul Williams testified under oath, "no chance games" are called that because "there's an opportunity to find out if you win or not before you decide you're going to play." He confirmed that these devices are "not gambling devices." A device that allows a player to know the outcome before committing funds is fundamentally different from a lottery, where outcomes are determined by chance after the wager is made.

These Machines Are Not Gambling Devices Because They Are Not Games of Chance

Whether a device is a "gambling device" under Missouri's criminal statutes is a question that must ultimately be resolved through the criminal justice system. As the Missouri Court of Appeals recognized, "there are sound policy reasons why courts should not be used to civilly enforce criminal laws, including the difference in the burden of proof between a criminal prosecution and an action for equitable relief."

Until a court of competent jurisdiction makes a determination in a criminal proceeding—with the protections of the criminal justice system, including proof beyond a reasonable doubt—these declarations are based on incomplete and non-final proceedings.

No-chance gaming devices support small and local businesses across the state. 

No-chance gaming devices provide the unique opportunity to increase revenue generation at businesses across Missouri. Operator partnerships across the state continue to support and sustain volume, providing the aid many small and local businesses need to stay in business and keep money in their communities.