History of slot machines

If you have visited a casino at least once (either physical or online), you definitely played one of the colorful and vibrant slot machines. These highly interactive and generous games have come a long way. Keep reading to find out all about slots history!

First slot machines - late 19th Century

The first slot machine was invented in 1891 by Sittman and Pitt. It was nothing like the video slots we have nowadays. The machine included 5 drums and 50 playing cards. To start the game, all you had to do was insert the money and pull the lever to stop the reels from spinning. This poker machine did not include a payout system, so the winner could only collect the prize at the bar. Some people do not consider Sittman and Pitt’s invention to be the actual first slot machine but rather a precursor.

When was the first slot machine invented then and who is responsible for creating it? The date is not known precisely, but it was probably between 1887 and 1895. The person who invented the slot machine and can be called the father of slots is Charles Fey.

Mechanism of the first slot machine invented

The machine created by Fay had an automated payout system, 3 reels, and 1 payline. He introduced 5 symbols to the game: spade, hearts, diamonds, horseshoes, and liberty bell (which gave the name of the first slot machine).

Even though mechanical slot machines were popular, the games have changed over the years. In 1902, the symbols were transformed into juicy fruit symbols, and winners got their prizes in the form of delicious candies and chewing gum. Then, in 1908, the iconic BAR symbol appeared and started to be a part of slot machines.

Electromechanical and video slot machines

It goes without saying that 1964 was a groundbreaking year in the history of slots. That was the year when the first electromechanical slot machine was invented. The game was called Money Honey and offered a bottomless hopper that could give the players a payout of up to 500 coins. Since the players were still used to the lever and convinced that pulling it was the way to succeed, it was still present in the game. However, the reels were 100% electrical.

The first video slot

In 1976, Fortune Coin developed the first video slot. It was the beginning of better graphics and high-quality slots. The slot machine had a tv screen used as a display, and it was tested for the first time at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel. The game was very successful and became so popular in Las Vegas!

Increasing popularity of jackpots

Two years later, IGT merged with the Fortune Coin Company and introduced many changes and refinements to the video slots, which caused an increase in their popularity in Las Vegas. The progressive jackpot was one of the most innovative creations. It has been a staple of the industry ever since. How does it work? Few slot machines are connected to each other using a system that collects a small part of a wager set on each game. The goal is to accumulate one mega jackpot.

Transition to modern slot machines

The next milestone in the history of slots came in 1994, with the license to operate gambling businesses online. Initially, the style of online slots was very similar to the first fruit machine invented. Thanks to the efforts of pioneers such as Microgaming, the modern slot machine now has gripping graphics, complex features, and increased payout potential.

History in the making

What started as a simple three reel slot machine has transformed into an internet-based empire. The number of video slots is rapidly increasing, and providers from all over the world are working on delivering high-quality games. There are hundreds of slot themes and features available, with new ones coming out every year. The history of the slot machine doesn’t seem to stop transforming. We can’t wait to discover what the future of slot games will bring and what other innovations we will see in the next few years!