The progressive jackpot Wheel of Fortune casino gambling machine struck it very big for one lucky player in December at the Thunder Valley Casino in Lincoln, California. California resident and real estate agent, Dennis Shields, decided to take his mom out, who was visiting from Tennessee, for a night of gambling at Thunder Valley, during which time Shields surprised even himself after hitting a $1,004,038 jackpot.

The Wheel of Fortune machine, which takes $5 bets for the progressive jackpot, is an IGT game that is often avoided by players who are seeking to incorporate playing strategy into their casino gambling sessions. Devoid of any opportunity to exercise strategy and good bankroll management, Wheel of Fortune is one of those hit and miss games whose best incentive is hitting the elusive progressive jackpot.

And for Dennis Shields, this was foremost in his mind. Having put a total of $180 into the machine before hitting the jackpot, Shields said that once he won, he did not quite believe it had actually happened. Aside from the logos lining up, the thing that finally made him a believer was when the casino floor attendant came over and confirmed the jackpot.

Thunder Valley Casino, was more than happy to announce the jackpot win, which was being contributed to by several games located at numerous casinos. Since Wheel of Fortune is a wide area progressive game with higher than average betting stakes, the jackpots tend to add up quick and large when enough players get behind the wheel at once. The game certainly has broken the wallets of many gamblers, yet this recent win at Thunder Valley is testament to its capability of making millionaires.

Thunder Valley Casino is located in Northern California, and is owned and managed by the United Auburn Indian Community. Opening to the public in 2003, the casino is located just thirty miles east of Sacramento. In additon to Wheel of Fortune, Thunder Valley Casino offers many gambling amenities, including a total of 2,700 slot and video machines and 100 table games. The casino caters to locals and also offers parking for up to 3,300 vehicles.