While other casino games like Texas hold ’em and craps may garner more fanfare, slots are by far the most popular and profitable game in gambling establishments. Using probability and chance to beguile players into spending their hard-earned cash, these machines draw millions of players and produce billions in annual gaming profits.
Slots come in many shapes and sizes, with different features, themes, payouts, and volatility. A first-time casino goer could find himself or herself overwhelmed by the enormous selection available. For example, video slots are characterized by their complex graphics and bonus features, while progressive machines link together to create a shared jackpot that grows each time a player puts in coins.
In the nineteenth century, gambling pioneer Fey invented a machine with an arm-mounted lever that pulled a cord to spin reels that displayed symbols and a pay table. He called it the “Bell.” The Bell became a popular attraction at saloons until morality, law enforcement, and church leaders began to oppose its operation.
In the early sixties, Bally introduced the first electronic slot machine. Electromechanical sensors replaced mechanical ones, and the new technology allowed for additional features such as diagonal matchups and multipliers. In the seventies, the emergence of touch-screen technology enabled even more interactive features and functionality. Lastly, random number generators were developed to ensure that each play is independent and unpredictable. Ultimately, the RNG decides which symbol will appear on each reel and when.