Slot machines are one of the most popular casino games of all time. Most commonly, you’ll see the machines covered in buttons and flashing lights, with fruit-themed symbols on the reels.
You’ll also find that slot games make up for an average of 70% of an online casino site, with a huge variety of themes to choose from.
Read on to discover the ultimate guide to slot machines, so the next time you play these chance-based games, you’ll be feeling like a pro!
The original slot
In 1887, a Poker machine with five drums, resembling a slot machine, came about. The idea was to create Poker hands on the reels using only the 50 available cards. However, the first slot machine to allow automatic payouts was created between 1887-1895 – known as the Liberty Bell.
The invention of the Liberty Bell is credited to Charles August Fey. He replaced the five drums from the Poker machine with three reels featuring just five symbols – hearts, diamonds, spades, horseshoes and a liberty bell. The highest payout was awarded when three matching bell symbols were lined up on the reels.
However, Fey did not patent his idea, so other game developers copied his popular idea.
The inner workings
At this time, the reels could be spun using a lever and spring system. By pulling the lever, you would stretch the spring inside the machine, which would gradually stop the reels from spinning.
Nowadays, electrical and online Slots are kept fair and unpredictable thanks to computer software called a Random Number Generator (RNG).
Fruit Machines
In 1902, Slots were banned in most American states, but this didn’t stop game developers from manufacturing the machines. Without cash prizes, the machines began to feature fruit symbols, and matching symbols would pay out prizes in sweets and chewing gum of the corresponding flavour – birthing the iconic Fruit Machine era.
Advancements in technology
Until 1964, the machines remained mechanical. Finally, significant advancements in technology meant the first electrical slot was developed. Known as Money Honey, this was the first slot with a bottomless hopper, which meant a payout of up to 500 coins was up for grabs. The machine still featured a lever for familiarity, although it no longer needed it.
The first video slot made its debut in 1976, created by a Las Vegas-based company called Fortune Coin. Set upon a 19-inch Sony TV display, this slot became widely popular on the Las Vegas Strip.
In 1996, the first video slot to feature a second-screen bonus round was created. This meant additional payouts could be up for grabs, and graphics could be improved. At this time, Slots became hugely popular at land-based casinos.
Online Slots
Between 1994 and 1996 the first online casino was created. Whilst the graphics were basic and internet speeds were slow, it paved the way for the online games we play today.
As smartphones and greater bandwidth were introduced, more slot games became available online. You’ll now find special features, unique graphics, extra rounds and more – making gameplay more convenient and accessible than ever!
Now you know everything there is to know about Slots, will you be trying your chances online or on a land-based machine anytime soon?
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