From the first one-armed bandit, the Liberty Bell in 1887 to modern machines in Las Vegas and their online counterparts — the history of the slot machines has seen it all. Many things have changed since then, but the idea remains — spinning reels, usually three of them must stop at the combination of one from the pay table, usually three equal images on each. Let’s take a look at what technology changes have the slot machines gone through, and most importantly the differences between classic and online machines.
The main functional unit of a slot machine is the random number generator (RNG) which in today’s machines is a software running on an embedded computer. This unit determines every outcome of a spin while the spinning effects are displayed to carry the spirit of the game and entertain the players. That renders online slot machines being just a simplified version of their real-life counterparts. Does that mean there are no other differences but that? More often then not there are and many.
Firstly let’s consider where the machines are deployed. The offline machines are in casino houses and are under strict regulations in different countries. The regulations are thorough, a slot machine must have a minimal payout percentage, the gameplay must follow the rules. Near-miss is one such rule. Programming a machine to create an illusion of near-miss situations to call on player’s desire to win is strictly prohibited. In fact, these regulations leave very little room for imagination to manufacturers, especially when marketing ideas go.
Online games are completely different. Even though the technology is essentially the same, the rules may differ up to a point where there are no rules at all. Due to online casinos being run from off-shore companies in countries with very tolerant laws (especially after online casino ban in US), the casino holders are free of any rules. That means not only near-miss programming, but also preference over the bet amount, even tracking of player’s performance and reacting accordingly. Mind you, the most reputable online casino’s will try to have their machines as close to reality as possible, but that doesn’t mean you can’t expect to see some tricks.
Taking that into account, one can take this to his or her advantage and adjust their tactics with respect to the differences. For example, while real slot machines have their RNGs running at all times and there is a difference as to when you have a spin, you can save the breath online – obviously they are not running at all times and the outcome is always determined at the very instant you push the button.
To conclude, even though the exposed differences will not make you rich, having them in mind can be helpful albeit just in small way. In this sense there might be a chance to find your perfect slot machine online, as it would never be the case offline. And as a closing tip, unlike in casino houses, online you can always play free slots as you are trying the machines — there are thousands of them and even a penny on each can cost you a fortune.
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