wizard of vegas / reality TV

Does anyone else feel that we've now "jumped the shark" and became like many "reality shows" (not quite so real...kind of staged feel)?
It seems like some of the newer posters (while entertaining) are not legit. I'm not one to call anyone out, just seems like some of the posts from newer members are a bit hard to believe.

It is hard to "break into" a forum same as it is any kind of group. We are no exception.

I would watch a Vegas reality show following the Wiz around. Uh, did that sound a bit creepy ?

If I were the producer, I would title the first episode "Alfred's Spotted Dick". And of course we'd have to find a friend named Alfred for the Wiz to pal around with for the day.

Quote: linksjunkie

Does anyone else feel that we've now "jumped the shark" and became like many "reality shows" (not quite so real...kind of staged feel)?
It seems like some of the newer posters (while entertaining) are not legit. I'm not one to call anyone out, just seems like some of the posts from newer members are a bit hard to believe.

There have always been posters who are not legit here...they usually don't get the attention they crave and leave or they go nuts and get banned...

Quote: linksjunkie

Does anyone else feel that we've now "jumped the shark" and became like many "reality shows" (not quite so real...kind of staged feel)?
It seems like some of the newer posters (while entertaining) are not legit. I'm not one to call anyone out, just seems like some of the posts from newer members are a bit hard to believe.

oops I failed

If there is going to be a reality TV show, or an Infomercial, I want to put my bid in first.

An Infomercial promoting the Wiz's tools, books, DVDs and websites would be a natural for the History Channel or the Travel Channel would be a good sell. But what are we selling?

Sell logo'd T shirts.

Or maybe wizard caps.

I agree. I've noticed it for a month or two. What I see is:

1. Many of the new posters are old time members that have left/been booted and are making posts under new names they know will stir things up.
2. The quality of good gambling information and real gambling talk has gone way down.
3. Now that there is a new owner and the owners main focus is online gambling, the connection with the owner of the site has been lost. That itself is a big factor in a customers relationship with a lot of businesses. It's always better dealing directly with the owner.

I think this forum could use a little format change. A re-focus on what it wants to be. Is it a forum on Las Vegas in general? Is it a forum on AP information? Is it a forum on reviews of hotels/restaurants and events? In my opinion it's way too broad.

There are more posts and views of "What color is this dress" (53 replies, 1,666 views) than what seems to be a legitimate question of "Is it possible to beat slots" (8 replies, 267 views), or another legitimate question from a new member "Question about bankroll management" (6 replies, 337 views). That in my opinion should not be the way it is and shows where the interest has gone.

I've been here since November 30, 2009. That's a long time. It's sad to me to have to see the above happening. Hoping it can be fixed before we lose even more of the remaining knowledgeable and relevant posters.


ZCore13

Quote: Zcore13

I agree. I've noticed it for a month or two. What I see is:

1. Many of the new posters are old time members that have left/been booted and are making posts under new names they know will stir things up.
2. The quality of good gambling information and real gambling talk has gone way down.
3. Now that there is a new owner and the owners main focus is online gambling, the connection with the owner of the site has been lost. That itself is a big factor in a customers relationship with a lot of businesses. It's always better dealing directly with the owner.

I think this forum could use a little format change. A re-focus on what it wants to be. Is it a forum on Las Vegas in general? Is it a forum on AP information? Is it a forum on reviews of hotels/restaurants and events? In my opinion it's way too broad.

There are more posts and views of "What color is this dress" (53 replies, 1,666 views) than what seems to be a legitimate question of "Is it possible to beat slots" (8 replies, 267 views), or another legitimate question from a new member "Question about bankroll management" (6 replies, 337 views). That in my opinion should not be the way it is and shows where the interest has gone.

I've been here since November 30, 2009. That's a long time. It's sad to me to have to see the above happening. Hoping it can be fixed before we lose even more of the remaining knowledgeable and relevant posters.


ZCore13

Interesting view point but it should be pointed out that the "What color is this dress" thread was started by the Wizard himself. Has he lost interest in the subject of gambling? Or this site?

Quote: darkoz

Interesting view point but it should be pointed out that the "What color is this dress" thread was started by the Wizard himself. Has he lost interest in the subject of gambling? Or this site?

IMO, Mike likes thought provoking subjects that deal with math, science, psychology etc of any kind.
The dress subject fits within that criteria.

It seems like he's not interested in discussions that involve heavy political subjects that are not Vegas or gambling related.

It's obvious he doesn't care what your cat had for dinner last night or what clothing you wear.

He seems to dislike betting system posts the most.

I would think the new owners really want as many visitors as possible as long as they have the potential to use the dreaded online casino links.

I try not to post new threads that have nothing to do with Gambling or Vegas however ill participate or post in what he may conciser nonsense.

Quote: Zcore13

I agree. I've noticed it for a month or two. What I see is:

1. Many of the new posters are old time members that have left/been booted and are making posts under new names they know will stir things up.
2. The quality of good gambling information and real gambling talk has gone way down.
3. Now that there is a new owner and the owners main focus is online gambling, the connection with the owner of the site has been lost. That itself is a big factor in a customers relationship with a lot of businesses. It's always better dealing directly with the owner.

I think this forum could use a little format change. A re-focus on what it wants to be. Is it a forum on Las Vegas in general? Is it a forum on AP information? Is it a forum on reviews of hotels/restaurants and events? In my opinion it's way too broad.

There are more posts and views of "What color is this dress" (53 replies, 1,666 views) than what seems to be a legitimate question of "Is it possible to beat slots" (8 replies, 267 views), or another legitimate question from a new member "Question about bankroll management" (6 replies, 337 views). That in my opinion should not be the way it is and shows where the interest has gone.

I've been here since November 30, 2009. That's a long time. It's sad to me to have to see the above happening. Hoping it can be fixed before we lose even more of the remaining knowledgeable and relevant posters.


ZCore13

There's a few people who purposefully post up betting systems just to stir up crap. I don't know why people (inducing myself) respond. There should be a simple auto link posted to the betting systems thread. It's usually the same people that respond to them. If everyone made an agreement not to participate with them the bogus system bettors wouldn't have any fun and they would just go to a different forum.

Unfortunately a few members make sockpuppet accounts when they want attention and nothing legitimate comes along, just so they can answer themselves (oh let me show you some great math, simulations and wonderful answers).

Quote: AlanMendelson

If there is going to be a reality TV show, or an Infomercial, I want to put my bid in first.

An Infomercial promoting the Wiz's tools, books, DVDs and websites would be a natural for the History Channel or the Travel Channel would be a good sell. But what are we selling?

How to control dice and make millions..oh wait, you already know that is possible and just haven't found a way to market it yet. Add in your disbelief of people making a living off slots and you have a sure winner.

Quote: darkoz

Interesting view point but it should be pointed out that the "What color is this dress" thread was started by the Wizard himself. Has he lost interest in the subject of gambling? Or this site?

Yes, just my opinion of course. I have nothing to gain and no other motive than wanting the site to be better. Sure, he's probably lost a little interest. I would too if I sold the site compared to when it was my baby and I needed it to make me money. That's only natural. But the focus of the site is what I think has expanded too much. I don't come here to talk about dresses and spanish words of the day and obamacare. Isn't that why Diversity Tomorrow was created??

Now I understand the forum is only 1 feature of the main site. How many people here actually even look at the main site. I bet everyone is bookmarked to the forum. The amount of different people posting each day on the forum has seemed to decline. It's a small group that posts most of the time.

When someone goes tot he Wizard of Odds, they are looking for something specific. Odds, information, statistics, advice. And they get it in a very focused way.

I think when The Wiz first started this site it was meant to be an informative site about everything Las Vegas. Hence the name Wizard of Vegas. And the motto "WizardOfVegas.com is a travel guide about Las Vegas and its various casinos" To me that would be information on hotels, deals, casino information, hints and tips, games, etc. If someone is looking for a site for information on Las Vegas and they get here they get old reviews, lots of off topic conversation that has nothing to do with Las Vegas and some good but scarce information on gambling.

There were only 2 articles written all of last year. One by The Wiz and one by Mission. There were 0 show reviews last year or the year before. The Blackjack survey is amazing. Why is there no survey or information on where to find the best video poker machines? I would think people want that and it's attainable information. If someone is looking for High Card Flush in Las Vegas, why no list of where it is? I trip down the strip over a couple of days could result in a list of every table game and where it is located. That's great information.

I think that kind of information would bring more people to the site, which in turn would bring more people to the forum. These people are people specifically looking for information on gambling/Las Vegas. They would then want to talk about those same things which would lead them to the forum.


ZCore13

Quote: Zcore13

Yes, just my opinion of course. I have nothing to gain and no other motive than wanting the site to be better. Sure, he's probably lost a little interest. I would too if I sold the site compared to when it was my baby and I needed it to make me money. That's only natural. But the focus of the site is what I think has expanded too much. I don't come here to talk about dresses and spanish words of the day and obamacare. Isn't that why Diversity Tomorrow was created??

Now I understand the forum is only 1 feature of the main site. How many people here actually even look at the main site. I bet everyone is bookmarked to the forum. The amount of different people posting each day on the forum has seemed to decline. It's a small group that posts most of the time.

When someone goes tot he Wizard of Odds, they are looking for something specific. Odds, information, statistics, advice. And they get it in a very focused way.

I think when The Wiz first started this site it was meant to be an informative site about everything Las Vegas. Hence the name Wizard of Vegas. And the motto "WizardOfVegas.com is a travel guide about Las Vegas and its various casinos" To me that would be information on hotels, deals, casino information, hints and tips, games, etc. If someone is looking for a site for information on Las Vegas and they get here they get old reviews, lots of off topic conversation that has nothing to do with Las Vegas and some good but scarce information on gambling.

There were only 2 articles written all of last year. One by The Wiz and one by Mission. There were 0 show reviews last year or the year before. The Blackjack survey is amazing. Why is there no survey or information on where to find the best video poker machines? I would think people want that and it's attainable information. If someone is looking for High Card Flush in Las Vegas, why no list of where it is? I trip down the strip over a couple of days could result in a list of every table game and where it is located. That's great information.

I think that kind of information would bring more people to the site, which in turn would bring more people to the forum. These people are people specifically looking for information on gambling/Las Vegas. They would then want to talk about those same things which would lead them to the forum.


ZCore13

Good idea. I'd like to know which casinos have which table games, definitely. Not as worried about slots and VP, but would find that of occasional interest.

Quote: Zcore13

2. The quality of good gambling information and real gambling talk has gone way down.

It has, but that is inevitable. Internet forums after they establish tend to be dominated by a small core of posters. We are no exception what with about 20 of us being 90% of the posts. Of course there are many lurkers, and it always amazes me how many of those there are in forums.

But we have been here almost what, six years? I for one have talked most gambling subjects to death. I know the games I want to know inside and out. The games I don't know I am really not going to sit and play, ever. So there is a new twist to a new bet on BJ or Craps. How long can you discuss that? Unless we get into sports handicapping which changes with the weekly game, well there is only so much to say.

And sorry, but it all you discuss is gambling, well too much limit makes a site boring.

Quote: beachbumbabs

Good idea. I'd like to know which casinos have which table games, definitely. Not as worried about slots and VP, but would find that of occasional interest.

I'm told that the Gaming Board releases info on profitability in a manner that will not reveal any particular licensee's identity, but if you just want a listing of which casinos are authorized to spread what games, (as opposed to what is actually spread) the Board does list which casinos have paid the Gaming Board's taxes on table games. Usually, if a casino has paid the tax, they will have the game.

But what I think BBB is referring to is a more complete list that shows hours, optional side bets, payout tables, etc.

I'll admit a thorough knowledge of what is offered where would be real nice for some bargain hunters though if you are gambling with friends the ebb and flow of casino hopping will probably be determined by more social than probability factors.

I'll take Main Street Station any day for its microbrews only twenty feet from a craps table, but I often went to Vegas with a woman who really couldn't hold her liquor. Its nice to know of MSS's upstairs piano area and its oft-ignored "do not play" sign. And I'd love some of the decorative and inviting offerings of the Cosmopolitan, even if their casino is not all that great. I'd love a "field bet'' that pays triple on the Deuce, but won't walk all over town to find it. Its always a balance between what is offered and how close it is, but the first step is to know what is offered. We all know people will play an American roulette wheel when a European wheel is half-priced and only mere steps away.

Quote: Zcore13

Yes, just my opinion of course. I have nothing to gain and no other motive than wanting the site to be better. Sure, he's probably lost a little interest. I would too if I sold the site compared to when it was my baby and I needed it to make me money. That's only natural. But the focus of the site is what I think has expanded too much. I don't come here to talk about dresses and spanish words of the day and obamacare. Isn't that why Diversity Tomorrow was created??

Now I understand the forum is only 1 feature of the main site. How many people here actually even look at the main site. I bet everyone is bookmarked to the forum. The amount of different people posting each day on the forum has seemed to decline. It's a small group that posts most of the time.

When someone goes tot he Wizard of Odds, they are looking for something specific. Odds, information, statistics, advice. And they get it in a very focused way.

I think when The Wiz first started this site it was meant to be an informative site about everything Las Vegas. Hence the name Wizard of Vegas. And the motto "WizardOfVegas.com is a travel guide about Las Vegas and its various casinos" To me that would be information on hotels, deals, casino information, hints and tips, games, etc. If someone is looking for a site for information on Las Vegas and they get here they get old reviews, lots of off topic conversation that has nothing to do with Las Vegas and some good but scarce information on gambling.

There were only 2 articles written all of last year. One by The Wiz and one by Mission. There were 0 show reviews last year or the year before. The Blackjack survey is amazing. Why is there no survey or information on where to find the best video poker machines? I would think people want that and it's attainable information. If someone is looking for High Card Flush in Las Vegas, why no list of where it is? I trip down the strip over a couple of days could result in a list of every table game and where it is located. That's great information.

I think that kind of information would bring more people to the site, which in turn would bring more people to the forum. These people are people specifically looking for information on gambling/Las Vegas. They would then want to talk about those same things which would lead them to the forum.


ZCore13

"WizardOfVegas is a travel guide about Las Vegas and its various casinos". That's not me saying it. That's what is on this site's home page right now. Before the sale we were encouraged to "take it to DT". We don't hear that as much now. I just used a link from this site to go to DT. There were no members online. Don't worry, I turned the lights off when I left.

I agree with AZ. We have discussed and dissected the majority of the casino games. If new people come in with a question and they decide to do a decent search, I bet they can find the answer to their question within 30 minutes, and probably in at least a couple of threads.
I think it was Axel who said Wiz seems to like any thread that is math or trivia related, or has some sort of challenge aspect. I believe this is what keeps this site fresh. If it was all gambling, only gambling, it would be much more boring after the first 30 days. I also bet it would become much less active.
It would be great if this was a single source where one could find all things Vegas, be it current hotel reviews, current game lists, current table minimums, etc. And I sort of think that was the original intent. But the reality is, the conditions change so often that you would need a staff of 12 people making daily visits, and forum edits, to ensure the posted information was up to date. One of our members was creating a mega website to do something like that, but I have not seen much on that project in the past year. I'm guessing it is suffering from 'boil the ocean' syndrome.

Quote: RaleighCraps

I believe this is what keeps this site fresh. If it was all gambling, only gambling, it would be much more boring after the first 30 days.

You hit the nail on the head, IMO. There are other websites and they become mundane and repetitive to the max. This is the only website that is versed and full of energy with great response from the members with a min of " 'A' Alpha I am going to control this board" sort of stuff. It is not just gambling if you are talking Vegas, it is everything else combined, the shows, the food, the hotels, the shopping, the places to see, etc. I think it is for 75/80 our of every 100 people anyways. All IMO.

Quote: RaleighCraps

I agree with AZ. We have discussed and dissected the majority of the casino games. If new people come in with a question and they decide to do a decent search, I bet they can find the answer to their question within 30 minutes, and probably in at least a couple of threads.
I think it was Axel who said Wiz seems to like any thread that is math or trivia related, or has some sort of challenge aspect. I believe this is what keeps this site fresh. If it was all gambling, only gambling, it would be much more boring after the first 30 days. I also bet it would become much less active.
It would be great if this was a single source where one could find all things Vegas, be it current hotel reviews, current game lists, current table minimums, etc. And I sort of think that was the original intent. But the reality is, the conditions change so often that you would need a staff of 12 people making daily visits, and forum edits, to ensure the posted information was up to date. One of our members was creating a mega website to do something like that, but I have not seen much on that project in the past year. I'm guessing it is suffering from 'boil the ocean' syndrome.

I'm not just talking about the forum. The forum is one feature of the site. Probably not even the main feature originally. Much of the original site idea and updating has gone away.

Like I said, why can't this be the site to go to if you want to know where you can play a specific table game?
Why can't this be the site to go to a Las Vegas Strip show?

If I was traveling down the yellow brick road with my friends and made it to see the Wizard of Vegas, the Wizard of all things Las Vegas, these are some things I'd want to know.

As for the forum, it's very short sighted to think all discussion have been had. Did you know about vulturing Ultimate X before it was brought up here? You don't know what you don't know. There's another new forum trying to build an expert panel/staff/membership and say they are the gambling forum of choice if you want good information. WoV already has that, but doesn't really use it. Where else can you find access to top gaming math people, game inventors with hundreds of installs, table games management and dealers and staff from the two largest game distributors in the world? What they are trying to build, The Wiz has but doesn't really take advantage of.


ZCore13

Quote: Zcore13

I'm not just talking about the forum. The forum is one feature of the site. Probably not even the main feature originally. Much of the original site idea and updating has gone away.

Like I said, why can't this be the site to go to if you want to know where you can play a specific table game?
Why can't this be the site to go to a Las Vegas Strip show?

I think I covered this when I said it would take a staff of 12 to keep the information current. The only thing worse than a site with old info, is a site that claims to be current, and then has the ONE item you look at, and it turns out the info was a year old. Don't get me wrong, I would love to see it happen, but short of getting the casinos to push info to the site owner, it becomes an improbable task.

Quote: Zcore13

As for the forum, it's very short sighted to think all discussion have been had. Did you know about vulturing Ultimate X before it was brought up here? You don't know what you don't know. There's another new forum trying to build an expert panel/staff/membership and say they are the gambling forum of choice if you want good information. WoV already has that, but doesn't really use it. Where else can you find access to top gaming math people, game inventors with hundreds of installs, table games management and dealers and staff from the two largest game distributors in the world? What they are trying to build, The Wiz has but doesn't really take advantage of.
ZCore13

If I thought all of the discussion was done, I would be long gone. But I also don't expect there to be a lot of conversation on AP plays, current or past. Even discussing past AP plays could end up closing potential new AP plays. You of all people would realize that.
I do agree that the amount of talent that is on this board may be one of the best on the net. Math experts, gaming experts, APs, game designers, casino dealers, casino management, and as was pointed out, no one poster is trying to be the Alpha dog. The game analysis, both here and on WOO, are shinning points, along with the brilliant minds that post here (myself excluded in that group).

Quote: Zcore13

Why is there no survey or information on where to find the best video poker machines? I would think people want that and it's attainable information.

Well specifically for this, I think VPFREE2 is the definitive source. Why be redundant ?

Quote: Zcore13

If someone is looking for High Card Flush in Las Vegas, why no list of where it is? I trip down the strip over a couple of days could result in a list of every table game and where it is located. That's great information.

Yeah, I could see that being helpful for people who like that particular game.

I do think it would be interesting if we had a system to accumulate ratings for various shows. That would leverage the opinions of many, rather than just the single reviewer.

Quote: JohnnyQ

Well specifically for this, I think VPFREE2 is the definitive source. Why be redundant ?

As someone who has owned multiple businesses in the past, that seems kind of silly. Should a casino not build because there are others around? Should a McDonalds stay out of a neighborhood because Jack in the Box is there? You provide the service and you do it better than the competition and maybe even a little different. VPFREE2 is the definitive source right now. Doesn't mean it has the best layout, the easiest format to view the information, the best features, etc. The goal would be to not let your customer base go someone else for this information and take new or other customers that are in search of it.

Quote: JohnnyQ

Yeah, I could see that being helpful for people who like that particular game.

Yes, or any game. I like to play Galaxy Gaming's Pai Gow because it has the "Pai Gow Insurance" bet. It seems that's the only way I ever win. I want to know where that game is before I head to the Strip. Same with Ultimate Texas Holdem. I was just at a Casino that had one UTH table. Couldn't get on it. So I look up who has multiple tables.

Quote: JohnnyQ

I do think it would be interesting if we had a system to accumulate ratings for various shows. That would leverage the opinions of many, rather than just the single reviewer.

Agreed again. Shouldn't a site for Las Vegas with lots of regulars have something like that? If the review section for shows, hotels, blackjack play, etc were star ratings (or something similar) I would review every hotel, buffet, show, casino and poker room I've been to. No extra Staff needed. All automated and relevant.


ZCore13

I think ZCore13 has a great idea.

Create a 5 category show criteria. The shows would be rated on the same standard, like length of show, quality of stunts, comedic value, etc. Then have a 5 star rating for each category.
Each show would have an overall rating, based on the individual category ratings.

If it was simple enough to cast your vote, I bet it would get quite a bit of use, which would make it useful. OTOH, I haven't really ever been to a bad show in Vegas. They're all pretty darn good.

To keep the morons from ruining the rating system, you would probably need some code to prevent bot voting. However, since it is reasonable to assume someone would attend the same show again, multiple votes by the same user should be permitted, within reason of course. Perhaps an admin would have to approve any ranking after the first vote.

Quote: RaleighCraps

OTOH, I haven't really ever been to a bad show in Vegas. They're all pretty darn good.

I mostly agree, with the exceptions being:

1) Bottom's Up at the Flamingo
2) Forever Plaid, also at the Flamingo, I think

- Both are from YEARS ago

Quote: Zcore13

Yes, or any game. I like to play Galaxy Gaming's Pai Gow because it has the "Pai Gow Insurance" bet. It seems that's the only way I ever win. I want to know where that game is before I head to the Strip. Same with Ultimate Texas Holdem. I was just at a Casino that had one UTH table. Couldn't get on it. So I look up who has multiple tables.

So maybe start with those games. Gather info, put it in a thread, eventually someone could help put it into a table of info. But, I think it would be a huge undertaking to do something like VPFREE2 from scratch and be value added. I guess that doesn't mean don't try, it would just be quite the job, imho.

I've seen a few bad ones as well. Years ago I saw a Riverdance type show that was average at best. I've also seen some really good ones. Enjoyed the Cirque du Soleil with Beatles music. Blue Man Group was really cool. Really like Elton John.


ZCore13

Quote: Zcore13

As someone who has owned multiple businesses in the past, that seems kind of silly. Should a casino not build because there are others around? Should a McDonalds stay out of a neighborhood because Jack in the Box is there? You provide the service and you do it better than the competition and maybe even a little different. VPFREE2 is the definitive source right now. Doesn't mean it has the best layout, the easiest format to view the information, the best features, etc. The goal would be to not let your customer base go someone else for this information and take new or other customers that are in search of it.




Yes, or any game. I like to play Galaxy Gaming's Pai Gow because it has the "Pai Gow Insurance" bet. It seems that's the only way I ever win. I want to know where that game is before I head to the Strip. Same with Ultimate Texas Holdem. I was just at a Casino that had one UTH table. Couldn't get on it. So I look up who has multiple tables.



Agreed again. Shouldn't a site for Las Vegas with lots of regulars have something like that? If the review section for shows, hotels, blackjack play, etc were star ratings (or something similar) I would review every hotel, buffet, show, casino and poker room I've been to. No extra Staff needed. All automated and relevant.


ZCore13

Just remember it was VPfree originally Skips page that started the demise of good machines and plays. Casino management used that information what not to do(thats not just a rumor one was well known). VPfree inspired AP consulting. You may get your wish knowing where every good game and promo is including plays of the past but if it causes the games and promotion to be downgraded for everyone what's the point?

Quote: AxelWolf

Just remember it was VPfree originally Skips page that started the demise of good machines and plays. Casino management used that information what not to do(thats not just a rumor one was well known). VPfree inspired AP consulting. You may get your wish knowing where every good game and promo is including plays of the past but if it causes the games and promotion to be downgraded for everyone what's the point?

The opposite also happens as well. Harrah's Laughlin puts a sign on top of machines that are "Hot Machines" These are the top payback machines of each money. Guess which video poker machines are the "hot ones"? The ones that are listed on VPFREE2 as the best machines to play. They are using that same info that you say killed some places to attract business to them.

ZCore13

Quote: Zcore13

I've seen a few bad ones as well. Years ago I saw a Riverdance type show that was average at best. I've also seen some really good ones. Enjoyed the Cirque du Soleil with Beatles music. Blue Man Group was really cool. Really like Elton John.

We saw Blue Man Group at Monte Carlo last summer. Entertaining, but not Excellent. I was surprised by how worn the Theatre felt there, just tired and run-down.

But fun to get some pix with the BMG guys after the show !