The evolution of online slot machines in the US explained

From the mechanical one-armed bandits in smoky backrooms to colorful, high-tech digital games available to play from the comfort of your home, the journey of online slots reflects broader trends in technology, culture and legislation. The changes that have taken place with regard to gambling over the last couple of decades are radical, especially with the advent of the internet. In this light, one of the most interesting avenues of development concerns the rise and development of online slot machines in the United States.

Birth of slot machines

It all began back in the late 19th century when Charles Fey, an inventive genius from San Francisco, constructed a mechanically operated poker machine. Featuring three spinning reels and a very simple payout system, it came to be known as the Liberty Bell. It was truly revolutionary, thus setting the ground for the modern slot machine.

Rise of the electronic slots

By the time the 1960s and 1970s rolled in, however, slot machines were due for a facelift with electronic technology. Companies like International Game Technology (IGT) began manufacturing machines that utilized not only electronic random number generators but also advanced graphics and sound. These changes made slots more attractive to players, who enjoyed the many themes and larger payouts. The evolution caused these machines to become more popular, expanding into states such as Nevada and New Jersey.

Digital revolution

The real game-changer for slots came with the advent of the internet in the 1990s. The first online casinos started cropping up, and online slots followed. These initial digital versions were rudimentary affairs, with smaller graphics and basic gameplays. But as the internet continued to get quicker and slicker, so too did US online slot machines.

Sweepstake Casinos

The first ever sweepstakes casino hit the internet in 2011. Before then, no other online casino had incorporated a sweepstakes model or social gaming elements, so this was a definite memorable moment in the evolution of online casinos.

Over 10 years later, there are a variety of online sweepstakes now – such is the strength and range of the competition – that there are now a whole host of casino review sites and experts who are looking to rank providers based on the quality of their individual characteristics.

This includes quality of bonus, customer service, range of games, payment options, etc. As this review details – there’s a bit more that constitutes a highly-rated sweepstakes brand.

However, by switching to a version of slots that doesn’t require real money transactions and sticking to the traditions and the mechanics of the original – sweepstakes were able to carve out a truly creative and innovative market within the slot gaming world. They continue to command a huge audience, even in the modern market where there’s so much competition from traditional online platforms.

Legal landscape

Legally speaking, online gambling in the US has been complicated and subject to many fluctuations. The Wire Act of 1961 prohibited cross-state bets on sporting events, but somehow managed to catch online gambling in the crossfire. The mess was further perpetuated with the passage of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act 2006, placing online poker and casinos in a gray area. This left legality entirely to the whims of the different states, which led to a patchwork of rules across different regions.

Indeed, with the legalization of online gambling, including online slots, New Jersey set the bar in 2013. That was an incredible move; it totally revolutionized the state’s economy and the general, countrywide move toward the legalization and regulation of online gambling. Since then, many states have jumped onto the bandwagon with regard to online casinos; examples include New York, Pennsylvania and Delaware, all of which allow their citizens to try legal, safe, digital slots.

Technological innovations in online slots

While the legal side of things was getting updated, so too was the technology behind online slots. Developers started using really advanced software to create an immersive experience. HTML5 technology made gameplay smooth across desktops, tablets and smartphones, meaning players could enjoy their favorite slots at any time, wherever they were. Improved graphics, engaging soundtracks and complex storylines have made online slots more interactive and entertaining than ever.

But once free spins, bonus rounds and progressive jackpots were added, these layers of excitement brought people back for more. With the addition of social elements such as multiplayer games that enable integration with social media, the online slots experience has become even richer, thus making people feel part of a rich and vibrant community.

Mobile gaming and the future

Smartphones have grown more advanced and popular, which has subsequently helped mobile gaming to become one of the major forces of online gambling. Today, it's possible for players in the US to access their favorite slots from virtually anywhere, be it from the comfort of their own home, while riding on a bus or relaxing in a park. Mobile-friendly slots have become an inseparable part of online casinos, and many developers have turn their attention toward creating mobile-friendly experiences.

A brighter future for US online slot machines will ensue from the introduction of virtual reality and augmented reality features, giving another meaning to immersiveness for players. Because of increasing competition, online casinos are likely to create more innovative variations of online slot games, seducing a significant and diversified community of players across the world.

Conclusion

Online slots in the US have come on in leaps and bounds due to a good balance of technology, culture and regulation. From the early mechanical models, slots have continuously improved, with different player preferences and technological leaps to today's digital units.

With more states continuing to embrace online gambling, and technology still marching ahead, the future of online slots seems ever brighter, promising even greater thrills to players who are ready to try their luck anew in vivid worlds of gaming accessible from their couch or bed. The journey of online slots is currently taking baby steps, with much more exciting possibilities yet to come.

By GamesAndCasino