Resorts World NYC Debuts Live Table Games in Historic Queens Expansion Ahead of Schedule

Resorts World NYC launches live table games and 2,500 slots in Queens, marking the start of a $5.5 billion expansion and a historic shift for NYC gaming.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 29, 2026, 10:49 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from iGaming Business (iGB).

A Historic Milestone for New York Gaming

Just five months after receiving one of three coveted downstate casino licenses, Resorts World NYC launched its full-scale operations on Tuesday. The transition from a "racino" (offering only electronic games) to a Class III casino marks the first time live table gaming has been legally available in New York City. Residents who previously traveled to neighboring states or upstate New York now have access to a full gaming floor in Queens. The first phase, which includes 240 table games and 2,500 slot machines, opened ahead of its original June target.

The First-Mover Advantage

Resorts World is positioned to dominate the New York City market for several years. While other license winners—Bally’s Bronx and Metropolitan Park—are greenfield projects not expected to open until 2030, Resorts World utilized existing space to expedite its rollout. Genting Americas East President Robert DeSalvio emphasized that this launch is "only the beginning," as the facility plans a decade-long expansion aimed at reaching 800 tables and 6,000 slots by 2031—potentially the highest totals in the United States.

The Most Aggressive Bidder Wins Big

The path to licensure saw Resorts World emerge as the most enthusiastic applicant. To secure its position, Genting offered a $600 million license fee ($100 million above the state minimum) and agreed to tax rates of 56% for slots and 30% for tables. These rates significantly outperform the 25% and 10% rates accepted by other winners. Furthermore, Resorts World committed to $2 billion in community and workforce investments, bringing the total project value to approximately $7.5 billion.