Not really sure of the reasons, but as you mentioned the competitive dynamics of the locale might be a factor. Be advised though, the Express Comp earning rate in Detroit is 2x higher than Vegas. For $3.00 coin-in you get 1 base point. For $15 coin-in at Detroit you'd get 10 cents in EC and 5 TCs, and in Vegas for the same $15 coin-in, you'd get 50TCs, but only 5 cents in EC. I'd prefer to be earning twice the EC than earning extra TC. Remember, at the end of the day, tier status does't really mean anything in gaming. It's the time you put into gaming, average bets, and game you play to receive any comp offers. If you're solely after the tier status, then yes, MGM Detroit, Borgata AC, and other local casinos aren't the the place to achieve that.

No. I rarely use or have my players card handy when checking in. If you booked via MLIFE, you're player's number should be attached to the reservation already.

That or the MLIFE credit card. Luxor never asks, Neither does EXCAL. Mandalay Bay MGM and Bellagio have always asked to see the card.

Dang. I'm glad this came up. I've got a Bellagio stay in a few months and would've forgotten to bring the physical card as it doesn't stay in my wallet.

I don't have any personal experience at the Bellagio (yet -- ask me next Sunday!), but I have recently used the VIP check-in area at the Park MGM as an M life Pearl. I didn't need to show my card, but they could verify my status when they pulled up my reservation. I would be surprised if the same isn't true at the Bellagio.

I've never needed to show my card at Bellagio, even when I was Plat.

Because your reservation shows that you have the status you need ( Gold and up ) to use the express check in line.

We are Pearl at MLIFE and need the credit card to use the express check in line.

FWIW , Mandalay Bay did not as for the card this past weekend.

THE OP said he/she was recently matched to Gold so it's best if they had the car on them IMO.