Part I: Games & Gaming · Slot Machines & Electronic Gaming

Wide-Area Progressive (WAP)

Slot Technology

A progressive jackpot system in which slot machines across multiple casino properties, sometimes spanning entire states or countries, are linked to contribute to a single, massive jackpot pool. WAP jackpots regularly reach seven or eight figures. The slot manufacturer (such as IGT, Aristocrat, or Scientific Games) typically manages the WAP system, including the progressive controller, network infrastructure, jackpot seed funding, and the eventual payout when the jackpot hits. Participating casinos share in the revenue but are not directly responsible for funding the top award. WAP systems require dedicated secure network connections and extensive regulatory oversight across all participating jurisdictions.

In practice

IGT Megabucks is the most famous WAP in the world, with jackpots regularly exceeding $10 million before hitting. In Asia-Pacific, WAP systems like Aristocrat’s “Dragon Link” and “Lightning Link” link machines across multiple integrated resorts. WAP jackpots are typically paid as annuities over 20-25 years.

One entry from the Casino Industry Glossary — 1,157 terms written for surveillance, compliance and operations professionals rather than for players. Definitions describe industry usage; where a term carries a regulatory meaning, verify against the instrument that governs your jurisdiction.