Slot giant IGT in talks to acquire Cyberview

Slot machine giant International Game Technology said late Tuesday the company is in preliminary discussions to acquire European rival Cyberview for $70 million.

Both parties have agreed to an exclusive negotiating period and discussions are in the early stages, according to a statement.

Cyberview, which is headquartered in London, has offices in Las Vegas but does not have a Nevada gaming license. A gaming source said the company was expected to be on today's Gaming Control Board agenda, but the item was pulled from consideration.

A gaming analyst said late Tuesday acquiring Cyberview would give Reno-based IGT another notch in the push to bring high-tech server-based gaming to slot machines throughout North America.