Slot machines have been around since the late 1800’s, the first models were invented by Sittman and Pitt of Brooklyn, New York. These were a precursor to the machines we know today and were made of drums holding playing cards. The games were based on Poker and players would insert a coin and pull a lever. Instead of a cash reward, players would win items such as free beer and cigars for completing poker hands such as pairs and flushes.
The slot machines we are more familiar with arrived shortly afterwards and were designed by Charles Fey of San Francisco, according to Wikipedia. These machines used reels instead of drums, and symbols; horseshoes, diamonds, spades, hearts, and a Liberty Bell, which is where the machines name comes from. Matching the symbols depending on the rules would earn you cash rewards. The ‘Liberty Bell’ machines were instantly popular and copied by other companies such as Operator Bell. You can still find an original Liberty Bell machine in the Nevada State Museum.
Over the years, slot machines have grown in popularity and their use of technology. One thing as remained constant and that is the basic reel and symbol design. They may no longer be physical, and instead viewed on a video screen or online, but they still remain as the idea is simple as well as easy to recognise and learn how to play. Since the 1990’s, multi-line slot machines have become popular and video machines can have 9, 15, 25, up to a staggering 243 different paylines! The higher the amount bet, the higher the potential payout will be if the player wins.
Not everyone has access to a local casino and as such, online slot machines have boomed in popularity in recent years. The great thing about online gambling is that it is ready and waiting for you when you want to play a few slots. A spare few minutes before going out for the evening, during a TV advert break, or while waiting for dinner to cook. It is quick, easy and fun.
There are many places online to play slots and often there are bonus incentives for doing so. These include matching your starting fee up to $1,500, effectively doubling your money. And it is not just the traditional symbol slots that you can play. If you can think of a theme it is probably available, from casino themes, to video game themes.
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