Fiore parlayed his background in art into slot design in the late 1980s, when he signed on as a junior artist with International Game Technology in Reno. At IGT, he ascended the ranks to senior designer, and was credited with developing the first slant-top slot machine. He also is credited with creating the design for the venerable Megabucks progressive slot, launched in 1986. 

After leaving IGT in 1992, Fiore founded the Idea Center in Las Vegas, which created a new printing method for slot glass-a method still used by slot manufacturers. In 1994, he joined Mikohn Gaming Corporation as a designer for that company's signs and displays. After leaving that company to form his own design firm, Richard Fiore & Associates, he joined Sierra Design Group in 1999.

At SDG, Fiore became known as one of the top designers of slot game content in the business. His achievements there were recognized by the U.S. Congressional Committee, which honored him with the 2003 Nevada Businessman of the Year Award.

After SDG was purchased by Bally, Fiore went back to his own proprietary business, spending a year in partnership with slot legend John Acres before settling back into his own business this year. His slot design firm was awarded a Nevada license in September.

By GGB Staff

Staff writers for Global Gaming Business magazine. Las Vegas, Nevada.