For some time now, Zynga has been looking for a way to offer real-money gambling to their customer base, and it has finally taken the first serious step towards that goal.
The social gaming giant has just filed paperwork via the Nevada Gaming Control Board. Though it's not going to be an overnight deal. According to a statement issued by Barry Cottle, Zynba's chief revenue officer:
"Zynga has filed its Application for a Preliminary Finding of Suitability from the Nevada Gaming Control Board. This filing continues our strategic effort to enter regulated RMG markets in a prudent way. We anticipate that the process will take approximately 12 to 18 months to complete. As we've said previously, the broader U.S. market is an opportunity that's further out on the horizon based on legislative developments, but we are preparing for a regulated market."
As Gamespot points out, Zynga Poker currently allows players to use real money to buy chips, but virtual currency is used instead when cashing out. This will allow the publisher to finally offer real money in, real money out.
While Zynga awaits the green light to commence with actual gambling here in the United States, it's already going ahead with similar plans in the UK, thanks to a partnership with online gambling company Bwin.party.
