EXHIBIT 16.1 [ARTHUR ANDERSEN LETTERHEAD] December 18, 1998 Securities and Exchange Commission 450 Fifth Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20549 Gentlemen: We have read Item 4 of Form 8-K, dated December 18, 1998, of Colorado Gaming & Entertainment Co. (the "Registrant") and are in agreement with the statements contained in paragraphs 4(a)(i), (ii), (iv) and (v) therein. We have no basis to agree or disagree with other statements of the Registrant contained therein. /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP Arthur Andersen LLP