As noted on these pages after my last trip to the Hilton in July,
things began going downhill with the significant change in
theoretical, the reduction in quality offers, and the hints that
levels (i.e., C-1) were going to be changed. As I mentioned back
then, I played my normal level of coin-in but only received about
1/3 of my normal theo.
Since I haven't been back since that time and have tried to read as
many related posts as I can, let's summarize all the changes at the
Hilton. If I've missed any, please add on...also, please correct me
if I am wrong...
1) Reduced theo on (all?) video poker machines which affects the
level and amount of comps we receive.
2) Elimination of lower rating levels requiring the use of earned
points to be redeemed for comps. Also, those who previously
qualified for C-1 or C-2 status have been downgraded so perks are
harder to come by.
3) Reduction in offers either as a result of reduced theos or a
marketing business decision.
4) Combination of cashback and comp accounts. While reported to be
roughly .40% for VP, there have been reports that it is as low
as .18%. (this may be the clincher for many not to return).
Additionally, no one at the hotel seems to be able to explain the
system.
5) Rule changes with regards to tournaments, etc. negatively
affecting the player and only communicated to players after they
were on-site. This includes changing the theos on the machines so
it takes much more play to qualify for the tournaments.
Don't get me wrong, the Hilton has always been very good to me, but
it is obvious that they are trying real hard to run their players
off. Based on the comments on this site, I suspect there will be
far fewer people visiting the Hilton until they come to their senses
and reverse some of these decisions. Let's face it, Park Place and
then Caesar's had to offer higher cash back and better perks because
this is NOT A STRIP HOTEL. It was the only way to attract players
and get action on the machines. This is a convention hotel and they
had to be more generous to attract players. I suspect that
eventually when the bosses realize the casino is empty and they've
run off all the players they may reverse course on some of these
decisions. Until then, we can only let our hosts know how we feel
and vote with our feet.