Note 3 - Intangible Assets And Goodwill (Detail) - Goodwill Activity by Segment (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011
Goodwill	$ 86,755	$ 84,950
Utility [Member]
Goodwill			48,818
Goodwill	46,750	45,350	48,818
Foreign currency translation adjustment	1,400	(3,468)
Proprietary Table Games [Member]
Goodwill			10,253
Goodwill	14,448	14,208	10,253
Acquisition		3,000
Other	240	955
Electronic Table Systems [Member]
Goodwill			35,328
Accumulated impairments			(22,137)
Goodwill	12,808	12,725	13,191
Foreign currency translation adjustment	83	(466)
Electronic Gaming Machines [Member]
Goodwill			13,130
Goodwill	12,749	12,667	13,130
Foreign currency translation adjustment	82	(463)
Total [Member]
Goodwill			107,529
Accumulated impairments			(22,137)
Goodwill	86,755	84,950	85,392
Foreign currency translation adjustment	1,565	(4,397)
Acquisition		3,000
Other	$ 240	$ 955