Any casino patron will be able to see the slot machines that line the walls, and account for at least a portion of the noise and excitement in the casino atmosphere.  What is all that hype about anyway?  Let’s take a look at the history of slot machines, and learn a bit about how to use them.

Slot machines began in 1894 when they were designed by Charles Fey in San Francisco.  Then they were used by serious gamblers only, and while he built several prototypes, the three slot, coined operated model that he built in 1898 is the one that has been used to develop the common machines we see today.

There are two main types of slot machines, regular and progressive.

·         Regular machines are straightforward and separate from other machines.  They pay a pre-determined amount based on a specific play. 

·         Progressive slot machines are definitely the more sophisticated machine type that builds a jackpot prize that increases by a percentage with each coin played in the machine.  The machines can be linked and grouped together to make the progressive jackpot even larger; and these links and groups can be maintained through one casino, one state, or across any number of machines.

 
Prizes are either paid by the machine itself, or the casino, depending on the size of the winnings.  The machines work on a series of pulleys and levers, and not much has changed in the mechanics and inner workings of the machines since their creation over 100 years ago.

Here are some tips when it comes to playing the slot machines:

·         Play one at a time, or else you are giving the house an edge.

·         Just because a machine has not paid out in a while, does not mean it is due a win.

·         Machines can only give you odds of winning.

·         Play the full bet on progressive slots, because the bet amount affects the jackpot!

·         Place a limit on play time or money amount to spend on the machines to help yourself keep the gambling under control.

 Slot machines have evolved tremendously since their dawn.  Slots happen to be the game of choice for many gamblers, and while they are fun; they should be used in moderation as with any gambling practice.  Now that you know more about slot machines, you should be in a better position to use them!