Ohio's casino market spans four networks (PENN, Caesars, MGM, and independent JACK), which creates a unique comp opportunity. Players who strategically use multiple programs can extract more total value than in markets dominated by a single operator.
The Multi-Network Advantage
Ohio is unusual because it has four distinct casino companies competing in the same state:
| Property | Network | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Hard Rock Cincinnati | Hard Rock (formerly JACK) | Cincinnati |
| Hollywood Columbus | PENN Play | Columbus |
| Hollywood Toledo | PENN Play | Toledo |
| JACK Cleveland | ClubJACK (Independent) | Cleveland |
| Scioto Downs | Caesars Rewards | Columbus |
| MGM Northfield Park | MGM Rewards | Cleveland area |
| Belterra Park | PENN Play | Cincinnati area |
This means you can maintain status in multiple programs simultaneously, each earning comp value at different properties.
The Properties
1. JACK Cleveland (ClubJACK)
JACK's direct cashback model is the simplest and often the best pure comp value for VP. Instead of points, tiers, and complicated redemption, ClubJACK gives you a percentage of your play back as cash. Ask at the rewards desk for the current VP cashback rate — this effectively reduces the house edge on any game you play.
2. MGM Northfield Park (MGM Rewards)
Northfield Park's comp value isn't about what you earn at Northfield — it's about the MGM Rewards status you build for use at Bellagio, MGM Grand, Borgata, and other MGM properties. A Cleveland player who visits Northfield monthly can build Gold or Platinum status, unlocking room offers in Las Vegas.
3. Hard Rock Cincinnati (Unity Rewards)
Hard Rock has the largest gaming floor in Ohio. The comp program includes point earning, dining offers, and hotel comps. Watch for multiplier days that boost your earning rate.
4. Hollywood Columbus / Toledo (PENN Play)
PENN Play status earned in Ohio applies at 40+ PENN properties nationally. If you visit PENN casinos elsewhere (L'Auberge Lake Charles, Hollywood Lawrenceburg, etc.), building status at Hollywood Columbus or Toledo has network value beyond Ohio.
5. Scioto Downs (Caesars Rewards)
Scioto Downs is a racino in Columbus on the Caesars network. The comp earning rate at a racino may be lower than at a full casino, but Caesars status is Caesars status — points earned at Scioto Downs build toward the same tiers that unlock benefits at Caesars Palace.
Ohio Comp Strategy
The best approach in Ohio is to maintain cards at all four networks and concentrate play at two:
- Pick a primary network (the one with the best national value for your travel patterns)
- Pick a secondary network for variety and backup comp offers
- Carry all four cards and use them everywhere for base-level earning
Ohio's high gaming tax means pay tables are tighter than Nevada or Mississippi. Comps are more important here because they help offset that tax-driven tightness. A 0.2% cashback at JACK Cleveland on an already-tight Jacks or Better machine improves your effective return meaningfully.
For the full overview, see our Ohio casino guide.