Slot machines are one of the most popular games to play at casinos. On any given night, expect most of the machines to be filled with eager players. They come in a variety of playing levels; some only cost five cents a play and others can cost as much as twenty dollars a play. Although slot machines are a gambling tool, many people are intimidated by the high-dollar card tables and prefer the fun and excitement of a good slot machine game.
The first mechanical slot machine was built and Invented by an auto mechanic, the first slot machines had three spinning reels with diamonds, hearts, spades and a cracked Liberty Bell painted on each. Prior to this invention, the term Slot was used to describe various kinds of vending machines. It was not long until this inventor realized that the momentum of the popularity gain of these machines was too much for him to handle on his own. He eventually teamed up with another manufacturer that would supply these new slot machines to casinos around the world.
The first real widespread use of slot machines in casinos is attributed to the Flamingo Hotel somewhere around. The owner of the casino had originally thought the machines would be great to entertain bored wives of some of the biggest high roller customers of the casino. Little did he know that slot machines would be a fun activity for nearly everyone and that the appeal would extend further than the bored wives. Today, it is said, slot machines comprise over two-thirds of all revenue generated casinos.
Slot machines certainly have a rich history. From the small and somewhat inadequate invention of the mid-1800’s to the multi-million dollar industry of today, slot machines will continue to grow in popularity. For some, they seem like a little risk to take with higher chances of winning, as compared to other types of gambling like Blackjack or Roulette.
Where We’re Going
The themed slot will no doubt continue to grow. However there’s a huge segment of casino patrons looking for something different. They are the Millennials. Born in the early to the late who grew up playing video games. Casinos took notice that this generation didn’t care to sit in front of a machine that did all the work for them in order to win. They want to be involved to make it happen. This led to the introduction of Games of Skill at the Global Gaming Expo.
Two companies, GameCo and Gamblit Gaming introduced their wares at the expo and by all accounts, things look very promising. Other companies, Konami and Scientific Games are creating their own versions to attract the Gen Y’s. Other companies will soon follow.
Some of the games are based on poker where a limited number of players use their skill to grab the cards they need. In another game players have to collect rare treasures in Pharaoh’s Secret Temple before time is up.
It’s too early to tell if the skill element will be successful, but some games are already up and running in Vegas and Atlantic City. Only time will tell.
