The last operational Sigma Derby slot machine, a vintage favorite, will make its final run from The D Las Vegas to Golden Gate, also owned by Derek Stevens. The transition will be marked by a parade on Fremont Street on June 16, 2026. This machine, a cherished relic among gaming enthusiasts, is moving to a new home where it promises to attract dedicated fans and curious onlookers alike.
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From Cult Classic to Casino Centerpiece
Introduced by Sigma Game Inc. in 1985, the Sigma Derby has become an iconic piece of Las Vegas casino history. With its electro-mechanical setup, the game features ten betting stations surrounding a miniature racetrack, offering players a taste of communal gambling with just a quarter per race. Though widely popular in the ’80s and ’90s, the game has since vanished from the casino floors, with this particular unit being the last in public operation globally. “When we bought Fitzgerald’s, we wanted to give the second floor a vintage feel,” Stevens mentioned to Casino.org in 2022.
A Strategic Move to Boost Traffic
The decision to relocate the Sigma Derby isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s no secret that the game itself holds major personal value for Stevens — his first Las Vegas wager was on a Sigma Derby at the old Dunes. But it’s also a clever strategic move for Golden Gate, which removed its live table games in March 2026. The hope is to draw nostalgic gamblers and the curious, increasing foot traffic to the casino.
Operational Challenges and Sentimental Value
Running the Sigma Derby is no small feat. With a house edge hovering around 15%, it’s pricier for operators than it appears. Replacement parts, long discontinued, are scavenged from eBay — a practice that makes machine upkeep a costly labor of love. Stevens once attempted to sell the unit for $80,000 on “Pawn Stars,” an effort many saw as more of a publicity move than a genuine sales attempt.
Celebrating a New Chapter
The last opportunity to play at The D will be up until midnight on June 14. And the Sigma Derby will be back in action at Golden Gate by 4 p.m. on June 19, when Stevens is expected to kick off the occasion with remarks and a champagne toast. Industry insiders will be watching closely to see how this move fares in boosting Golden Gate’s profile.
Eri Gaitu leads the news desk at Best in Slot, tracking breaking developments across the gambling world in real time. From exclusive bonus offers and casino launches to licensing updates and regulatory shifts, Eri ensures readers are always first to know about the changes that matter to their gaming experience.
