How Did Slot Games Remain So Popular For Over 100 Years?

Casinos have been a popular entertainment spot since they were first thought up. People would stop into casinos to catch a game of Blackjack, Poker, or slot games. Although all games remain popular even to this day, there’s apparently a unique appeal to slot games. What is the draw for slot games? Why are they so popular? And why have they remained popular for over 100 years? Even though the basic concept of these games has never changed, which you can easily notice if you compare some of the best slots in Canada with earlier, mechanical machines, they simply continue to keep giving in terms of popularity.

A Brief History Of Slot Games

Let’s begin by taking a look into the history of slot games and why they were so popular in the past. Slot games were invented in 1891 by the company Sittman and Pitt. This mechanical slot machine looked very similar to old cash registers you would find at the corner stores. This original machine had a five-cent playing cost and was located in many bars.

From 1897 until 1908, slot machines slowly evolved from not having a way to provide direct payouts and displaying cards to direct payouts and displaying fruit (due to a ban in place at the time). In 1964, slot machines were converted to electromechanical games. In the late 1970s, Sony TV screens were added, and finally, in 1996, bonus rounds were added. 1996 offered a substantial interest in slot games because of the additional prizes/money that could be won.

Slot Games Popularity Back Then

Back in the day, mechanical slot machines were state of the art devices, even though they may seem primitive from today’s point of view. Over the years, slot games have offered bar-goers and casino goers a spot where they can get a fast round of entertainment, without thinking too much. Poker, BlackJack, and other card games require at least a basic knowledge of the game and rules and can be intimidating for those new to the casino world. Not everyone is taught how to play the typical card games growing up, and the current available learning sources (like Youtube) were not available in the 1900s. Slot games offered a way for beginners to feel like they were involved without needing to take the time to learn any game rules. All that was necessary for a person to operate a slot machine was some coins and an ability to pull the lever. And that’s how they slowly started to become a center of operation for every casino.

Slot Game Popularity Now

What is the reasoning for the continued popularity of slot games now? The reason still holds that slot games are great for beginners. However, with the addition of online slot games, the reason for popularity has now changed to include accessibility. Players can now play slot games directly through their phones and on their computers without leaving their houses. Additionally, most slot games offer convenient features, like autoplay. Slot games also continue evolving in terms of gameplay, graphics and overall experience, which encourages new players to opt for them. Just like many decades ago, slot games continue to stay a relevant source of entertainment when it comes to casinos, and that’s probably not going to change any time soon.