The Early Days of Slots
The history of slot games dates back to the late 19th century, when Charles Fey, a German-born mechanic, invented the first mechanical slot machine in 1887. The machine, called "Liberty Bell," was powered by hand-cranked reels and featured five symbols: hearts, diamonds, horseshoes, and a Liberty Bell. It quickly gained popularity in bars and saloons across the United game States, where players could insert coins and spin the reels to win prizes.
The Evolution of Slots
As the years went by, slot machines evolved rapidly. In the early 1900s, the first electromechanical slots were introduced, featuring electronic components that allowed for more complex game mechanics. The first automatic payout was introduced in 1934, making it easier and faster to pay out winnings.
The post-war period saw a significant surge in the popularity of slot games. The introduction of fruit-themed symbols, such as cherries and lemons, became a staple of classic slots. The Liberty Bell machine, now known as "Classic Fruit Machine," was still going strong, with variations popping up across casinos worldwide.
The Dawn of Video Slots
The 1970s marked the beginning of a new era in slot gaming. The introduction of video slots revolutionized the industry by allowing for more complex graphics and animations. The first video slot machine, "Money Honey," was released in 1964 but didn’t gain much traction until the late 1980s.
One of the pioneers of modern slot games is IGT (International Game Technology). Founded in 1971 as Global Distribution Corporation, the company changed its name to IGT in 1986. Under the leadership of CEO Bob Slate and later Patti Hart, IGT released numerous hit slots, including Wheel of Fortune and Cleopatra’s Gold.