Slot machines are currently the most popular casino game worldwide. Among their main attributes are their easy and smooth dynamics and the great prizes they offer. In addition, the wide variety of titles available at the best online casinos appeals to almost all tastes.
Also called slot machines or slots, this wonderful game has evolved immeasurably since its appearance. Its passage through time has added various forms of gameplay and has incredibly optimised the user experience. You don’t need any experience to play them, although there are certain elements that can improve your chances of winning. If you want to learn more about this and more, join us in the following article.
What are slots?
Slot machines are machines of chance on which you can gamble and which happen to reward you with cash. They are known as slot machines, as they were coin-operated. At the time, 10 peseta cents were known as: “Perras-chicas”, hence the terminology slot machines.
History
The most widely accepted theory is that slot machines emerged in the late 19th century, in the USA. This premise places the German Charles Fey as the father of slot machines, who created the famous Liberty Bell. This machine, with 3 spinning wheels and hardly any symbols, offered the jackpot when 3 bells – yes, the same ones we know today – were hit.
In Fey’s time there were other very similar gadgets, which also left their mark on history. Among them was a slot machine created by the Bell Fruit Company. It introduced the world of slot machines to cherries, lemons and the famous BAR symbol, which are still prevalent today.
Online slots
Differences between classic slots and online slots
Both classic and online slots are games with similar dynamics, the objective is to spin the reels and obtain a combination. Classic models are those based on the early slot machines, with three reels and few winning lines. They are one of the main attractions of a land-based casino and although winning is not easy, they offer great rewards.
Online slots, on the other hand, offer a wide variety of games. In addition, they have an infinite number of themes. Likewise, when playing online you will get not only the classic 3-reel versions, but also the more modern 5-reel titles. There are also incredible bonuses, not to mention jackpots with plenty of money.
Types of slots
As we mentioned before, evolution has generated different types of slots, which are still prevalent today. Among them are:
Classic slots
These are the first models. They had mechanical reels and a lever to spin them. They have 3 reels and when you get 3 identical figures on their central (horizontal) line, they pay the jackpot.
Video slots
Introduced to the market since 1972, this type of slot machine revolutionised the market. This is because there was no longer any need for reels or mechanical levers, everything is handled digitally. They are usually digital reels and are the predecessors of online slots.
Online slots with multiple paylines
These versions include a variety of paylines on which you can win. Typically you can select from 20 to 25 combinations, but there are slots with up to 200 paylines. In the classic titles you can select from 1 to 9 winning combinations. Therefore, this mode offers you better chances of winning.
Progressive jackpot slots
In this type of slots, every time the player places a maximum bet, a percentage of the maximum bet is accumulated in the jackpot. They are usually connected by software provider in different online casinos. Progressive jackpots are undoubtedly the best prizes, although they require a higher investment.
Mini-game slots
Also known as “i-Slots”, in this version certain combinations trigger a mini-game in which you can multiply your winnings. Unlike other bonuses, these require more skill than chance.
3D Slots
These slots feature 3D graphics. They are commonly based on themes such as movies, TV shows and even video games.
Live slots
They were recently released. This mode includes a flesh-and-blood host who runs the game. Everything takes place in a live room. The host or hostess is in charge of triggering the (physical) slots you want to play in real time. Collective spins and bonuses are allowed.
