The first slot machines in the world – the history of the emergence of gambling slots, the oldest machines
The favorite pastime of modern users is betting on slot machines in online casinos. The establishments feature slots from well-known manufacturers. These are models of different genres with beautiful design, simple rules, and good returns. Players enjoy spending time in virtual casinos. But not all gamblers know how and when slot machines appeared.
Early gambling entertainments
Gambling games existed even in Ancient Rome, Greece, China, and Egypt. People placed bets on various events, played dice, and cards. The first slot machines, which became prototypes of modern slots, appeared in the 19th century. The very first machine was developed by mechanic Charles Fey in 1887. The machine had a primitive design. To start playing, you had to insert a coin into the coin slot. It was possible to win half a dollar.
In 1891, Americans Sittman and Pitt from Brooklyn introduced a poker slot machine. The model consisted of five reels with playing cards attached to them. The machine was operated by a lever. The card symbols on the screen changed as the reels spun. The machines of the American inventors gained popularity and were installed in many establishments. Mechanical machines did not pay out cash prizes, but players could get free drinks or cigarettes at the bar.
In 1895, Charles Fey invented a new slot machine called the “Liberty Bell.” The machine consisted of a reel with symbols in the form of playing cards and lucky horseshoes. The first mechanical slot machines were called “one-armed bandits” because they could be operated with a lever.
Development of slots and the emergence of online gambling
In the 20th century, the gambling industry began to develop rapidly. Players’ interest in slot machines increased, and many land-based casinos appeared. At the beginning of the century, the design and mechanics of slot machines changed. Developers introduced a double win option and improved the design of the machines. In the 1940s, the popularity of gambling games significantly increased. In the 1950s, the first electromechanical machines appeared, which used a small-power engine, spinning drums, and 20 game symbols in their construction. Slots accepted bills of different denominations.
At the end of the 20th century, the gaming industry received a new boost thanks to the emergence of internet technologies, electronic payment systems, and the creation of the first video slots. Today, hundreds of well-known companies supply software for online casinos. Developers’ collections feature slot machines of various categories – from classic retro models to slots with million-dollar jackpots.
The favorite pastime of modern users is betting on slot machines in online casinos. The…