The Ways That Slot Gaming is Continuing To Thrive

Slot gaming has come a long way since the late 19th Century, which was when the first iteration of the slot machine was invented.

Today, you can find slot games in casinos, in online casinos, and in other places like motorway service stations and pubs. There are several reasons that slot games remain popular; they are easy to learn, even easier to play, and they are fun.

Of course, slot games vary in so many ways, featuring an eclectic range of different themes, characters, icons and music – so there really is something for everyone. It is not just the varied games and elements that help slot developers to thrive, however – it is the fact that throughout history, the companies that create the games are willing and able to make the best use of all sorts of technology to give the player an experience they want to come back for time and time again.

A German Mechanic from San Francisco and the Liberty Bell

Widely recognised as the man who has been credited with inventing the modern mechanical slot machine, Charles Fey was a German immigrant who worked as a mechanic when he developed his creation. While similar machines had been in use for several years, it was the inclusion of automatic coin payouts in his machine that made him famous.

He also incorporated the Liberty Bell symbol in his machines, which is something that can still be seen on more traditional games.

Of course, with prohibition in the States and a general distrust of gambling, slot machines didn’t always pay out in coins – sometimes, it was sweets, chewing gum, or tokens that could be exchanged for goods in shops.

Electromagnetic slot machines were the next evolution, followed by slot games with video screens.

The biggest change for the slot game community came from the invention of the internet. Suddenly, slot games and other casino pursuits could happen for players without going out, and games could be linked to offer bigger jackpots. Even in brick-and-mortar casinos, slot games started having internet-specific features like community jackpots.

Modernising Slot Games

Game developers, whether they are creating slot games or the latest console title, have one thing in common – and that is the ability to turn technological innovation into playable games that keep gamers interested.

For slot games in particular, the following advances have made a real difference in keeping gamers interested.

1. Mobile Gaming

This is probably the most important development for gaming in general, as the proliferation of smartphones around the world has changed the way we do so many things these days. Now, you have more computing power in the palm of your hand than went into the moon landing – and developers have taken advantage of that to make their slot games more accessible in more places.

As a player, you can sign up to an online casino and play games on your computer or laptop at home. You can then download the corresponding app, and continue to play your favourite games on your smartphone, wherever you can get connected to the internet – either through WiFi or thanks to the spread of 5G throughout many major towns and cities.

Developers have made the apps to give a seamless experience so that you get the best connections, the best graphics, and the best overall playability whether you choose to use a computer or your smartphone. Extra convenience and accessibility for players helps ensure that online casinos remain relevant and can thrive in what is a very competitive market.

2. AI and Machine Learning

If you play console games, you will be very familiar with the concept of AI – that is what controls the NPCs.

In slot games, the AI is all about ensuring that you are offered the right games to play at the right time – and in combination with machine learning, fraudulent players and other issues are becoming less of a problem.

Add to this the proliferation of blockchain in data management, and suddenly your slot game is managed in a way that is provably fair with instant payouts – and the whole experience is safer and feels more intuitive.

3. Virtual and Augmented Reality

It might sound like an old-fashioned sci-fi movie, or an episode of Star Trek, but VR gaming is coming on leaps and bounds, already allowing you to play different games and really be IN the scenarios.

With online casinos and slot games in particular, live table games and sumptuously rendered environments transport you – so you can really feel like you are in the MGM Grand when you are playing.

Slot games that offer immersive play help gamers to forget about the outside world when they play, and with the right combination of reality and gaming, it is no surprise that this technology is going from strength to strength.

Author Profile

Adam Regan

Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com