We've all seen slot machines (or even full gambling floors) incorporated into MMOs before, but what about an MMO developed entirely around a casino theme? Well, they say that if you can imagine a thing, it's only a matter of time before it exists (I'm still waiting for my hover-board). The Cedar Falls, Iowa-based games developer Phantom EFX announced today the first round of in-game content updates for its new casino MMO, Reel Deal Live. They're calling it "the Internet’s first casino themed virtual world."

Judging by the info and screenshots available on its website, it looks just like what they're claiming it is: a casino-themed MMO (no real-money gambling though; it's all virtual currency). It's not just another gambling website with a loose-knit "community," like many of those online poker websites and casinos; Reel Deal Live is an actual, persistent-world MMO; complete with quests, NPC characters and character progression.

"Constructed in 3D, Reel Deal Live is a completely virtual, online community where gamers can socialize, place bets and experience the "high roller" life without wagering a dime," writes Phantom EFX, describing the game. "The game offers players the opportunity to take their character from a simple tourist in a casino to one of the most powerful gamblers around.  With Reel Deal Live, players are given incredible casino quests, unique friendship opportunities and the freedom to master their own gaming universe."

Despite the press-release fluff, it sounds like many of the staple MMO-defining elements are present and accounted for. This latest content update adds new features to the game (which launched back in February). Players now have access to more games like Texas Hold’Em and new in-game items that can be purchased via micro-payments. Reel Deal Live uses both free-to-play and subscription models, giving players access to more game content (and casino games).

The company says future updates are still in the works, including "hundreds of new quests," more in-game items, new NPCs and more. Personally, I'm still strangley interested in finding out what kind of "quests" you'd find in a casino-themed MMO. Kick 10 drunk players out the door within 10 minutes? Find grandma's "lucky" slot machine bobblehead?

We're one step closer to having seen it all, folks.