SOLVED. Science Fiction, teen named Alex recruited by a man in a casino and competes/fights with other countries or organizations via machines. [s]

[AJ]

This book was read about 6-8 years ago. I’m pretty sure the author was male and from America. The cover was either a shade of green or red and this book is part of a series. I think the book starts with a kid, I’m pretty certain his name was Alex but not for sure and he has bad acne, in a casino where he plays games. During one session a man from a group or possibly military gives the kid a simulation that the kid passes very well. That kid is recruited and taken somewhere where he is implanted with something, chip possibly and I remember his acne gets cleared. He either competes or fights with other countries or organizations via machines in real life or virtually, not exactly sure which. I know it kind of sounds like Enders game but it’s not.

[Tabitha]

This sounds close to Insignia to me!

[AJ]

Oh my gosh, that’s the book! I’ve been trying to find this book again for awhile, thank you so much! :)