Like many forms of technology, slot machines have gone through a major transformation since their creation. From their start as mechanical experiments in the late 19th century, these games have morphed into the sophisticated digital games seen in casinos today.
Over the course of their evolution, casino Slots have developed into many different varieties, from cluster slots and cascading reels to hybrids that take elements from other classic casino games. To get a sense of just how far slot machines have come, read on for a look at the course of their evolution.
The early days of slot machines
Slots first emerged in the late 19th century as various developers started experimenting with the concept of a mechanical game.
The first real precursor to the modern slot machine was created in 1891 by a company called Sittman and Pitt. This machine was patterned after the game of Poker, with the machine’s five drums featuring 50 different card faces. Players would pull the lever, waiting to see whether they’d be able to form a winning Poker hand from the combination the reels produced.
However, the biggest step towards slots, as we know them, came when Charles Fey created the Liberty Bell in 1895. With three reels and a much smaller selection of symbols – just hearts, diamonds, spades, horseshoes and Liberty Bells – this was a more streamlined product.
Fey’s design proved an instant classic, leading to orders for machines from across the US. This also prompted the development of other slot machines styled after the Liberty Bell, increasing the game’s spread.
The electromechanical era
Slot machines continued to develop and spread throughout the early 20th century. However, the next big development for slot games came with the introduction of electromechanical options.
By utilizing electronics within their machines, developers could create games with more complex features and stronger theming. The addition of light and sound effects offered plenty of opportunities for new slot machine designs.
While the traditional lever was still incorporated into plenty of machines, its importance had started to diminish, as the reels were now generally powered by motors rather than the momentum of a lever pull.
The dawning of the digital age
By the 1980s the shift away from mechanical Slots increased with the introduction of fully electronic cabinets. Video Slots began to crop up during the 1970s but began to take over the slot machine landscape in the following decade.
These designs did away with the physical reels entirely in favor of a digital display. Not only did this reduce the risk of mechanical failure or potential interference with game results, but this opened the door for even greater design experimentation.
New mechanics like cascading reels were now possible, as well as graphical effects and an even higher number of potential paylines.
As most slot machines had already embraced digital elements by the end of the 20th century this allowed for a smooth transition into the online landscape. Once casinos began to offer online play, Slots were quick to adapt to their new setting.
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The sheer variety of slot games on offer has only continued to grow since the rise of online casinos. As technology continues to develop, even further innovations on the classic slot machine formula are likely to emerge.
