Slots History: How Did Slot Games Begin?

The history of slot games goes way back to the 1800’s when the first mechanical slot machines were invented, but they were very different to the gaming machines we know today. These creations held prizes of food, cigarettes and drinks.

 

The first slot machine?

 

The first prototype of slot machine was created in New York in 1891 by Sittman and Pitt. It was based on the Poker card game with 5 reels and 50 images. The player would insert his coin and pull the lever, but this was a very different machine to what we know now. If the player won, he would be rewarded with cigars or food vouchers from the proprietor.

Way back in 1895, San Francisco car mechanic Charles Fey created the first ever slot machine. It was called the Liberty Bell slot machine and boasted 5 reels with 5 images on each. Symbols of card suits, horseshoes and a cracked Liberty Bell featured upon them. When the three winning symbols rolled in, all three Liberty Bells, the winner would win 10 nikels.

 

Slot history timeline

 

In 1910 Operator Bell machine by Mills Novelty Company, was a replica Liberty Bell machie, but these featured fruits and bells which are more common in todays slot machines.

1900 brought tougher anti-gambling laws and prohibition of gambling, but this didn’t damage the slots reputation. It was hidden for more than two decades, but it didn’t stop people wanting to play them.

1930’s saw the first slot machines with electric motors, Paces Races was a very popular horse race themed slot.

It wasn’t until the 1960’s when we saw the first electronic and mechanical slot machine introduced, Money Honey by Bally Manufacturing with an automatic payout system.

Nowadays, the slot machines are as popular as ever but have had a makeover or two. They have come in many different styles and variations, from hi-tech online slots from top software developers based on popular TV shows, rock bands, super heroes to retro slot machines.

 

Head over to our Slot Games section to find your favourite slot games, search by software, name or by letter.