Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday is calling a recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling a major victory for consumers and taxpayers after the court determined that so-called “skill games” are illegal under the Commonwealth’s current Crimes Code and Gaming Act.
The ruling follows arguments presented by the Office of Attorney General before the state’s highest court in November 2025. The office contended that the electronic machines, commonly found in convenience stores, bars, restaurants, and other establishments across Pennsylvania, function as unlicensed and unregulated slot machines.
State attorneys argued that including an element of skill in the games does not exempt the devices from Pennsylvania’s gambling laws.
“Today’s ruling is a significant victory for consumers, taxpayers and the rule of law in Pennsylvania,” Attorney General Sunday said in a statement. “The Supreme Court recognized what our office has argued from the beginning – these machines operate as gambling devices and cannot legally exist without the same oversight, regulation and accountability as other forms of legalized gaming in the Commonwealth. Pennsylvanians deserve protections that ensure games are fair, transparent and operated within the bounds of the law.”
According to the Attorney General’s Office, an estimated 70,000 skill game machines are currently operating throughout Pennsylvania, a figure that exceeds the number of regulated slot machines found in the state’s casinos.
Officials say the decision reinforces the Commonwealth’s authority to regulate gambling devices and supports ongoing efforts to ensure gaming operations are conducted legally, transparently, and with appropriate consumer protections.
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ordered its ruling stayed for 120 days, delaying immediate enforcement while the decision takes effect.