Also known as fruit machines, pokies, and one-armed bandits, slot machines are a major part of gambling. They often generate the most revenue for casinos and are fan favorites for casual and serious gamblers alike. These captivating devices create a game of chance for enthusiasts around the world, hoping to score big or just have fun with different themed slots. The evolution from mechanical slots to online slots is something of a marvel, happening over a period of two hundred years. Here’s a quick look at that transformation as well as some fun facts about slots you might not have been aware of.
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History of Slot Machines
The Beginning
In 1894, the first slot machine was brought to life thanks to Bavarian-born America-based inventor Charles August Fey. Although earlier machines that could be considered rudimentary versions of today’s slot machines existed, Fey’s Liberty Bell is widely recognized as the pioneer. Constructed in San Francisco, this machine featured three spinning reels adorned with symbols like diamonds, spades, hearts, and, if you couldn’t guess from the name of it already, the cracked Liberty Bell itself. A player would pull a lever to set the reels in motion, hoping the bells would align and trigger a jackpot, or perhaps they would get an alignment of other symbols and win a meager payout. Regardless, Fey’s invention began a craze that would eventually become one of the most common forms of gambling the world over, running ahead of sports bets and lotteries alike.
Electromechanical and Video Slots
The transition from purely mechanical to electromechanical slot machines occurred in the 1960s, with Bally’s Money Honey leading the way. This innovation was pivotal, being the first machine to use electricity to spin the reels. The slot also accepted larger bets compared to the single coins of old slots and, consequently, bigger payouts. In 1976, the world saw its first true video slot machine in Kearny Mesa, California, thanks to the Las Vegas-based company, Fortune Coin. This machine used a modified 19-inch Sony TV for display purposes and was revolutionary. Approved by the Nevada State Gaming Commission, it quickly became a hit on the Las Vegas Strip where tens of thousands of video slots can be found to this very day, showcasing just how revolutionary this early model TV display was.
The Digital Era
The digital revolution of the 1990s transformed slot machines once again, this time taking them to the vast expanses of the internet. Online slots introduced a range of possibilities, from diverse themes and intricate graphics to complex bonus rounds. The adoption of random number generator (RNG) software ensured these games were both fair and unpredictable. Today, online slots are among the most beloved games for online casino players, offering thousands of different titles and themes ranging from obscure concepts like aliens in space to more well-known themes like the wild west or Asian folklore.
Fun Facts about Slot Machines
There are a lot of fun facts about these machines that you might be unaware of. For instance, did you know that the original slot machine was meant to be an entertainment device for bars and saloons, and not intended to be placed in casinos purely for gambling? The original rewards weren’t even cash, as bettors could only receive free drinks or smokes instead. Similarly, in the 20th century, slot machines began to award chewing gum as prizes, which might explain the introduction of fruit symbols (and explains the name “fruit machine” in the UK.) The nickname one-armed bandit is, of course, a reference to the armed-lever you pull to spin the reels and the bandit refers to how often they took all your money.
There’s also a misconception when it comes to the term penny slots. Contrary to popular belief (and their name), penny slots aren’t just a penny. The penny part refers to the paylines, in that each payline you play costs a penny. Some penny slots actually require a minimum bet of 50 cents or more per spin, which can be a little shocking if you were expecting to play for 50x less. Still, with progressive jackpots getting introduced back in 1986 by IGT and their Megabucks slots, you can easily turn those two quarters into thousands of dollars if you’re lucky. Think of it as how the PowerBall can reach outrageous amounts the longer it goes unwon. Progressive jackpots quickly revolutionized slots, increasing the original static jackpot into a massive payout the longer it goes unpaid.
Wrapping Up
Slot machines have travelled a long journey from their simplistic mechanical origins to the highly sophisticated digital platforms we see today. Their evolution reflects not just advancements in technology but also changing preferences in entertainment, offering more complex, engaging, and visually stunning experiences. Beyond the bright lights and catchy tunes, slot machines carry a rich history of innovation and transformation, mirroring the ever-changing landscape of gambling and entertainment. Whether in a physical casino or online, they continue to captivate and entertain millions around the globe, proving their timeless appeal in the gaming world.