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Hard Rock Casino Rockford, also known as An Opening Act, now offers live table games in addition to its 600+ slot machines.
An Opening Act, which started hosting guests in late 2021, initially offered only slot machines and electronic table games while live table games were not yet available. This decision was made by Hard Rock as a strategic move to accelerate the opening process. The introduction of live table games was on hold pending dealer training and approval from the Illinois Gaming Board.
After much anticipation, the Illinois casino has finally introduced six new live table games for guests to enjoy.
- A single Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em table
- One Three-Card Poker table
- Four Blackjack tables
The live table games at Hard Rock will be open from 10 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Hard Rock listened to its guests
The president of Hard Rock Rockford, Geno Iafrate, announced that the casino had received multiple requests for table games. By analyzing the most popular games being asked for, they were able to decide which games to add to their offerings.
Iafrate informed 23 WIFR that the most sought-after amenity at this location is table games. Visitors from various locations have expressed disappointment when they are not available. However, that wait is now over. Table games and slots are both now accessible for you and your friends to enjoy.
The growth of the gaming industry has resulted in the addition of 20 new job openings at An Opening Act, bringing their total workforce to around 300 employees. Furthermore, Iafrate and Hard Rock are monitoring guest preferences for various game genres, which could lead to the introduction of more job positions in the near future.
Iafrate told 13 WREX:
As demand grows, we will be adding more table games, game options, and team members. Our upcoming Table Games Dealer School is just the beginning, with more training programs to come as we expand our team.
Update on Hard Rock’s permanent casino
In early April, vertical steel beams were installed at the construction site of Hard Rock’s new $310 million permanent casino. The casino will be located near the intersection of I-90 and State St, on the former Clock Tower Resort property.
The project began in September 2022, but was delayed by rising construction costs and supply chain challenges. Despite this, Iafrate noted that Illinois’ mild winter helped construction workers progress through most of the cold months.
Hard Rock officials are excited to open the 180,000-square-foot casino as soon as possible, but they have not yet revealed an official timetable.
Upon opening, patrons will have access to the following amenities:
- 1,000 slot machines
- Dozens of table games
- A sportsbook
- Hard Rock Cafe, like many other restaurants,
- 1,800 seat entertainment venue
- A hotel
