From $2 Bet to $1 Million: Gambler Hits Life-Changing Jackpot

A tourist visiting downtown Las Vegas on the evening of March 21 walked away more than US$1 million richer, thanks to a US$2 spin on a branded “Dollar Storm” pokie machine at Circa Resort & Casino. The property, located on Fremont Street, disclosed the win in a social media post the following day.

Circa, a two-level gaming venue and rooftop resort that opened in late 2020, said the winning player, identified only as “James,” had just US$2.10 remaining on his balance when he triggered a progressive jackpot totalling US$1,016,145.14. The machine, built by legendary  Aristocrat Gaming, is part of a class of multi-denomination pokies designed around tiered progressive payouts and features such as Hold & Spin bonuses.

“The storm rolled in, and James cashed out,” the team of the casino shared. “Late last night, a lucky run on one of our Dollar Storm slots turned into a US$1,016,145.14 payday.”

A late-night jackpot win that immediately drew attention from others on the casino floor. At least one bystander claimed to be seated at an adjacent machine when the win occurred. “Who knew I was sitting next to a millionaire,” they commented online. Another player described the moment as “amazing to witness.”

Overall, big pokie payouts in downtown Las Vegas aren’t unprecedented but remain rare. In January 2023, a visitor to Circa’s sister property, the Golden Gate Casino, took home over US$1.3 million from a “Wheel of Fortune” machine, another popular progressive series in the region.

As for James, it remains unclear whether he plans to return or retire.