Slot machines have existed for decades. The precursor to modern machines was released in 1891 by Sittman and Pitt in New York. It consisted of five drums with various card faces, there were 50 in total.
The drums were spun manually by pulling a lever and, when they stopped spinning, the player hoped that a good hand of poker would be shown, indicating he was a winner. The prize wasn’t cash, it was what the proprietor decided to offer based on the winning hand.
By the turn of the 19th century, the slot machine had evolved and automatic payouts of cash prices were possible. However, it wasn’t until 1963 that the first electromechanical version was created. The machine was the brainchild of Bally and allowed up to 500 coins to be paid out for the right winning hand.
The slot machine has continued to evolve and remained a staple of casinos across the country. Today, one of the favourite playing options is progressive slots. These are capable of generating large cash prices as they use a percentage of the money each player wagers.
The greater the prize the more interest the machine will get, leading to even bigger prizes and increasing the likelihood of winning something.
Of course, technology doesn’t stand still. Let’s take a look at what the future holds for slot machines.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality has quickly gone from being a vision of the future to reality. It’s now possible to game as the main character instead of pretending to be someone else. The virtual reality world encompasses you and makes you feel like you’re physically in the game.
This is a logical progression for slot machines. It’s likely that the machines will become more simplistic to look at. You’ll need to wear a VR headset and then the slot machine can be in any location you desire. You can play any slot game you wish, and there are likely to be additional elements overlapping the experience.
In short, it will be more engaging and rewarding.
Cryptocurrencies
It’s inevitable that cryptocurrencies will start to become acceptable in slot machines. It will make it easier to play and collect winners without the hassle of finding ‘real’ money.
The inclusion of cryptocurrencies will also make it possible to change the rewards offered, making the slots even more interesting.
Blockchain
Blockchain technology is an excellent addition to slot machines as it will make it easier to ensure every game is fair.
As this technology can be controlled remotely, there will no longer be a need for an intermediary. This reduces the opportunity to tamper with potential outcomes.
Add in the fact that blockchain is capable of recording every transaction and it will be much harder for either party to cheat the system.
Improved Graphics
Consider the graphics on early slot machines or gaming machines compared to what is available today. This will continue to improve, allowing the slot machines to look and feel more alive. It will even be possible to assume a character ID and develop their skills as you play.
Best of all, the new technology will be capable of remembering your character, allowing you to stop and start the slot machine without losing your progress.
Naturally, the quality of the graphics will be significantly better than it is today.
Multiplayer Options
As more people delve into the digital world an increasing number are getting involved in multiplayer online games.
It’s likely that slot machines will go the same way, making it possible not just to play against the machine but against others. Equally, it will be possible to team up with friends in a bid to reach a specific goal.
The multiplayer options will mean leaderboards and the ability to chat with other players. It will make slot machines a more sociable pastime.
Summing Up
Slot machines, like all other electronic gadgets, will improve as time passes. It’s fair to say that the slots of the future will bear little resemblance to those you are used to today. There is no limit to what is possible.
Technology will improve the quality of the gameplay and the array of games on offer. However, it’s the trends that will transform the industry, as slot machines become a community effort and people work together, or against each other.
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