My guess and just a guess is that payout is under 80% compared to 98% back in the 90 s. Food prices increased, very few options for food that isn't Ameristar, Machines are so tight that to see a bonus that pays more than you have put in is almost impossible. As years went by Boyd purchased the Casino and it's gone down hill since.
After Boyd takes over it will become a fancy Members only club for High tier players. What ever the reason, over time Ameristar drove Author Bryants out and made the spot into a gift center for Upper tier players. You could walk in the Door that the BBQ smell drew you to their spot. The use to be Author Bryants BBQ as one of the few outside dining options which was my favorate place to visit when at the Casino. NOT much different than any other Casio at this point. Every year that passed I saw the Machines get tighter, the Buffet price go up, the comps are less and the casino seem to get more greedy and provide less as far as entertainment and perks. Comps were reasonable, machines were hit and mis but they tried to provide a good experience. I've seen it change to Ameristar and still it was ok. I have been occasionally visiting this Casino back when it was Station Casino and a Fun place to go.when owners weren't so greedy.
