27 Jun 2025
It’s undeniable that slot machines have gone a long way since the one-armed bandits of old. These have evolved from mechanical devices to the sophisticated digital experiences that modern casino players enjoy from all over the world.
Through this article, we’ll be going over the various milestones that have helped shape the history of slot machines:
- The Liberty Bell
- The Introduction of Fruit Symbols
- The First Electromechanical Slot
- Video Slots Emerge: Fortune Coin
- Progressive Jackpots
- The Emergence of Online Slots
- Mobile: Slots on the Go
- The Megaways Mechanic
The Liberty Bell
In 1895, Charles Fey revolutionised the slot game world with the invention of the Liberty Bell, which is known as the first true slot machine. This mechanical slot featured spinning reels with various classic slot symbols.
Players would pull a level to set the reels in motion, which would then stop with the symbols showing through the little windows. This style of play was where the term “one-armed bandit” would originate.
The Introduction of Fruit Symbols
As the Liberty Bell brought new life to slot games, manufacturers would then search ways to circumvent anti-gambling laws.
In 1907, Herbert Mills introduced the Operator Bell. This slot machine replaced the card symbols with fruit icons like cherries and lemons. These represented the flavoured gum that would be prizes for wins.
This clever idea kept slot machines in business, while also introducing a new staple in slots: fruit symbols.
The First Electromechanical Slot: Money Honey
In the 1960s, Bally Technologies would then release Money Honey. This game is known to be the first fully electromechanical slot machine, which used electrical components to move the reels and give automatic payouts.
The success of this machine paved the way for the transition from mechanical one-armed bandits to electronic slot machines, which had increased reliability. This transition also paved the way for more complex game features.
Video Slots Emerge: Fortune Coin
In the 1970s came the introduction of the first video slot machine: Fortune Coin. This innovative machine used a modified Sony Trinitron colour receiver as its main display. This eliminated the need for physical reels.
After initial scepticism regarding this new technology, video slot games were eventually accepted. This milestone opened the door to more creative game designs and features, which led to those that we enjoy in slot games today.
Progressive Jackpots
The 1980s brought a new wave in the history of slot machines with the introduction of progressive jackpots. Megabucks, by IGT, linked multiple machines across casinos, pooling a portion of the wagers into a growing jackpot.
This feature offered players a chance to win great sums, with the jackpot reaching into the millions due to the number of players.
The Emergence of Online Slots
The internet ushered in a new era in slot machine history with the introduction of online slot games in the 1990s. Companies like Microgaming, now Games Global, would come to develop the first online casino software with basic online slot games.
This allowed for players to enjoy their preferred casino games from the comfort of their own homes. Online slots also led to an explosion in the popularity of online gambling.
Mobile: Slots on the Go
As the 2000s rolled in, so did the introduction of smartphones to the modern day markets. Smartphones made slot games become even more accessible than ever. Developers would then optimise their games for mobile devices, enabling players to spin the reels anytime, anywhere.
Online slot games on mobile helped contribute to the rapid growth of mobile gambling, making slots one of the most popular forms of casino entertainment on mobile platforms.
The Megaways Mechanic
Big Time Gaming introduced the Megaways mechanic in 2016. This innovative system featured dynamic reels which may change on every spin, and with it, the number of paylines for that spin.
The Megaways mechanic brought an added unpredictability to slots along with its massive win potential, making it a favourite among slot enthusiasts. Eventually, other developers would use BTG’s Megaways mechanic in their own slot games.
Conclusion: An Innovative Legacy
The history of slot games is a testament to the continuous innovation and adaptation of technology. Each milestone reflects the industry’s commitment to enhancing player experiences.
As technology advances, the future of slot gaming promises even more exciting developments, ensuring the excitement of the spin will continue to captivate players for generations to come. Spin the reels and experience history when you play here at Genting Casino!
