The first coin-based gambling machine was invented in 1894 and sparked plenty of intrigue from players. Four years later, Charles Frey invented the Liberty Bell – a slot machine that used horseshoes, bells, and playing cards. If three bells aligned in a row, the top pay-out was awarded to a lucky player. These simple inventions quickly became one of the world’s most popular forms of entertainment and have changed dramatically over the years into the games we know and love today.
With the introduction of the internet, then smartphones, and online casinos, iGaming has changed the gambling industry significantly. The online gambling market is currently valued at USD 59 billion, according to Statista. This figure is expected to double in size, with predictions that, by 2026, the market will be valued at more than USD 100.
The industry may well be growing and developing to adapt to modern times, but the basic gameplay and reasons behind why iGaming is so enjoyed have remained the same over the years. But what really has given slots the ability to stand the test of time?
Online slots are incredibly easy to play and there is a wider variety of games available online than there is at physical land-based casinos. New versions of slots are always being created which keeps players interested and gives them new ways to experience the classic game. From Bounty Spins to Lotto Dream, to Rainbow Riches, the backstories and graphics may continue to change but the timeless simplicity of the games and rules are the same.
The rules of the games are not complex and often don’t require any strategy like other casino games like blackjack or poker. This, paired with entertaining visuals, storylines, and entertaining music, is more than enough to introduce new players to the game and keep original players coming back for more.
Because players can have an authentic experience from their mobile device or computer, there is no also need to visit an actual casino anymore. This makes them more accessible to gamblers worldwide, novice or seasoned. People can play games, relax, and disconnect from reality from their own homes.
Slots are also particularly easy to design in comparison to other games available like sports games or action games. All slots, physical or online, operate simply by the player spinning the reels and trying to match up multiple symbols. The symbols have changed over time, from the original bells and horseshoes to symbols of fruit, letters, and numbers.
Game developers, such as Scientific Games, are also aware of how rapidly the online casino market is growing. The company plans to rebrand as Light & Wonder Inc. in order to keep up with demand. The popularity of online casino games is rapidly growing, and companies are moving away from their previous sectors to focus on this business.
More exposure for slots and iGaming is only another factor certain to guarantee them a position in our future. However, based on the trajectory of the figures available from the last decade alone, a place for iGaming and online gambling is almost certain in the future.