The adaptability of the humble slot machine is quite legendary. From the bygone black and white generation, slots took their first step into the future in the 1970s. Come to think of it, there could have been no better decade than that of the counter-culture movement for the game to gain its overdue makeover.
Fortune Coin Co. realised that it was time for colour and modernised parts; cue the 19-inch Sony Trinitron full colour monitor as the screen, and logic boards for the machine functions. The new avatar reimagined what a gaming pastime could look like, and hooked a new generation of players.
The experts believe that this model laid the foundation stone for all future versions, including the virtual ones. Some even claim that this version is what spawned the arcade gaming culture. What cannot be argued is that the Fortune Coin Co. slot machine soon took over Las Vegas, and gambling as we know it changed forever.
The slots we play today are virtually unrecognizable from the original model. They have gone bigger in terms of cash rewards; smarter in terms of machine intelligence; and can be played from your smartphone as well. The ease of the internet has allowed slot machines to go digital without losing any of their old-school charm.
Online slots have taken off from previous versions, offering edge-of-the-seat entertainment and excitement. Where you once had three pay lines, you have now in excess of 200. These days, especially with the linked games known as progressive jackpots, a single spin can yield slots winnings in the millions.
Online slots are probably even more fair than the old machines, many of which would not pay out unless the machine happened to be full of coins. But the best thing about the new generation of online slots is the huge variety of themes, which came about because the casinos need to keep their customers happy in such a busy market.
Starburst
With the mysterious deep space as the setting, Starburst offers a pure visual treat that few other games have been able to match. And with high-definition screens, the experience gets that much better. The gameplay is excellent to boot.
Gonzo’s Quest
From deep space we take you to the mythical city of El Dorado, where an entire city of gold lies hidden. Gonzo’s Quest offers an exciting gameplay wrapped in gorgeous visuals. The historical character that you essay hurtles from one adventure to another, all for gold.
Vikings Go Berserk
This slot is as much fun as the title suggests. Loaded up with fun, imagination and excitement, you enter the world of the Vikings. The story is set against the backdrop of one of the famous Viking voyages, where there exists the opportunity to land yourself some shiny gold pieces.
Aloha! Cluster Pays
If you have been wanting to take a vacation, but haven’t found the time to do it, Aloha! Cluster Pays may just be the ideal slot for you. Enter a world of crystal waters and breezy skies.
This was just a very short selection of the multitude of online slots available to today’s online casino enthusiasts. New offerings from the biggest providers appear all the time. Look out for slots provided by software developers such as Microgaming, Playtech and NetEnt for the best online slots experience.