Nothing wrong with it, but definitely showing its age. Overall capacity and the off strip location are probably reasons for the special prices (heck, Venetian/Palazzo are practically giving away comp rooms to almost everyone who can breathe)

IMO, location is fine, as you are walking distance to the Gold Coast (great low-roller gaming) and Palms.

Gaming is typical Harrah's, which means don't expect to find much of anything good, with regard to lower denomination (less than $5) video poker.

I've always felt a very decent vibe playing dice @ RIO --- and the Big Baccarat game, while seldom very busy, has been lucky for me, with regard to hit and run sessions.

I like Cafe Martorano; and you might just see Steve hanging by the pool.

The Wine Cellar is also another great spot on property --- totally underrated, IMO.

Be sure to ask for a recently (last 2 years) renovated room in the Ipanema Tower with a view of the strip. As far as I know, the rooms in the Masquerade tower have NOT been renovated yet, though, I might be a bit off on this.