Yes, not much good has been said about the Riv. They have been upgrading their rooms. They aren't all that bad. I would suggest getting a room in the San Remo or Monoco tower. Monte Carlo is used for comps or for APA related employees (hard to get in there). The Mediterranean Tower in the middle is the dump, (IMO).
Several things to consider. If you stay at the Riv, you will/should
1) enjoy the convenience of being close to your room from the tournament area.
2) you will save $10.00 per day of cue storage, or, carry it back and forth.
3) purchase your beer, soda and snacks at the ABC store. Half the cost of Riv. beer. $3.50 for draft from Riv. $2.50 for a 24 oz beer or $1.79 for 12 oz bottle from ABC.
4) Walk the 2 blocks to Peppermill or to Denny's, (next to Walgreens) for breakfast or lunch. Do not eat at Kady's.
5) you will save the hassle of walking back and forth to other hotels or Bus or cab fare for the duration out there.
6) if you want to drink cheap, go next door to Slots of Fun.
I wouldn't mind staying at some of the other hotels. I had a friend who stayed at the Stratosphere, but, the walk almost killed him. Sahara is right across the street. Circus Circus is still a pretty good walk from the Riv. If you stay there for the cheaper price, make sure you are staying in the tower, the places out back will add about another 20 minutes to your walk.
All in all, the convenience is the major factor. You can put up with the rest of the BS. JMO
