History of automata
Slot machines have come a long way - from the simplest mechanical machines with a handle to high-tech online slots with animation, jackpots and complex mechanics. This page is a dive into history, where each stage has left a vivid mark on industry and culture.
How it all started
1890s - The appearance of the first Liberty Bell assault rifle created by Charles Fey in the United States. He became the progenitor of the classic "one-armed bandits."
1930-50s - Distribution of electromechanical machines in bars and casinos. Fruit, "BAR" and 777 appear.
1970-80s - The Age of Video Automates: Electronic screens displace drums. New options for graphics and bonuses.
1990-2000s - Rise of online slots. Companies like Microgaming and NetEnt are bringing classics to the Internet.
2010-2020s - The Age of Innovation: Megaways™, cluster payments, progressive jackpots and mobile gaming.
Key stages of development:
Why is it important to know the story?
Helps to understand why certain machines have become legends
Reveals the technological evolution behind decades of innovation
Explains where familiar symbols, mechanics and stylistics came from
Slot machines are not just fun, but part of culture, engineering and digital art. Understanding their history allows you to take a fresh look at your favorite slots and appreciate their heritage.
How it all started
1890s - The appearance of the first Liberty Bell assault rifle created by Charles Fey in the United States. He became the progenitor of the classic "one-armed bandits."
1930-50s - Distribution of electromechanical machines in bars and casinos. Fruit, "BAR" and 777 appear.
1970-80s - The Age of Video Automates: Electronic screens displace drums. New options for graphics and bonuses.
1990-2000s - Rise of online slots. Companies like Microgaming and NetEnt are bringing classics to the Internet.
2010-2020s - The Age of Innovation: Megaways™, cluster payments, progressive jackpots and mobile gaming.
Key stages of development:
- Appearance of multiline automata
- Introducing random bonus features and frispins
- Transfer of ground classics to online format
- Birth of iconic mechanics: Hold & Win, Avalanche, Expanding Symbols
- Adapt to Mobile and HTML5
Why is it important to know the story?
Helps to understand why certain machines have become legends
Reveals the technological evolution behind decades of innovation
Explains where familiar symbols, mechanics and stylistics came from
Slot machines are not just fun, but part of culture, engineering and digital art. Understanding their history allows you to take a fresh look at your favorite slots and appreciate their heritage.
