Behind the Game: How Online Slots Actually Work

In the 21st century, we have now reached a point where technology has evolved rapidly. This development has signified that the quality and complexity of online games has also improved. In fact, the 2021 global games market will generate revenues of $175.8 billion and is projected to exceed $200 billion by the end of 2023. In this light, it is evident that technology has altered the face of casino games forever.

Firstly, slot machines are one of the most attractive games for people to play at a casino.  Since 1895, they have been favored by many as not only a source of entertainment but also a means to attain and acquire money and prizes. Slots machines were first introduced in the early 19th century and featured a simple 3-reel design with some symbols. By 1994, Microgaming, a South African company, had developed the first online casino software available globally. A few years later, the same company introduced the first-ever online casino, which led to the creation of the online betting industry. In fact, it was online slots that were the first casino games that offered players an opportunity to wager for real money virtually.

The proliferation of the internet in the 1990s was a huge reason for the evolution of online slots. Since they were already popular in land-based casinos, slots were able to be easily translated to the online casino realm. As online slots became more popular, software developers in the gaming niche were expected to work faster in order to accommodate the growing demand and expectations for them, and to ensure they could keep up with the increasing competition. This means that more money is now being invested in online casinos to introduce better features and gameplay. There are now more winning pay lines and reels which all contribute to a more exciting user experience. Furthermore, slot games online now feature more symbols on the reels, including wild symbols, and other bonus symbols. Not only is there an abundance of games to choose from, but they are also extremely high in quality. The developers are always pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of online casino slots games.

It was the introduction and subsequent rapid popularity of desktop computers that brought about new types of casino games on a global scale. In this context, not only are the numbers of those playing online slots levelling up to those who have previously played this type of game in person, but the figures are now surpassing those who frequently played the classic model. This is because it takes more effort and energy for those who are a fan of the traditional slot model to physically haul themselves to the location of the machine. It is much more accessible and convenient for them to play slots online or via a mobile app.

Software is one of the most important aspects in the development of slots games. The RNG software, or Random Number Generator, signifies that the outcome of slot spins is completely random. This means that a large part of the game is dependent on luck and chance which is appealing to those who are risk takers. Without RNG software put in place, it would be difficult to enjoy playing real money online slots games. Other core software to look out for include the Return to Player Rate and volatility – these are critical for the operation and enjoyability of online slots. The size and frequency of payouts is measured in volatility, rated from low to high. Low volatility is equated within having a higher chance of winning but also having a lower payout. On the other hand, high volatility is associated with being less likely to win but achieving a bigger payout if you do.

The realm of online gaming is certainly one that has the potential for even more development in the future. This is because there is new technology becoming available that might influence the iGaming market in the coming years. For example, virtual reality has now made its way into online slots. Virtual reality slots are the latest evolution in the online casino sphere. The first VR slot to be played for real money was released in 2017. This has paved the way for VR to be integrated with online slots. With great feedback from those who have experienced VR and plans in place by software developers, the online gaming world is set to release more well-developed virtual reality in the future. This should mean that fans of online slots will have an even more exceptional user experience which is akin to that of being in a real-life casino.

To conclude, there has certainly been a shift in the way we play slots. Prior to the rapid advancing of technology, individuals flocked to brick-and-mortar casinos to spin the reels in slot machines. Now, thanks to the creation and accessibility of online casinos, fans of slots can now play their favorite game at the touch of their fingertips, from home or even on the go. This evolution of slot machines is not looking set to stagnate any time soon and is in fact going to attract more and more individuals and traffic. Indeed, further developments within the sphere of online slots will ensure that there is even more potential for progress in this realm. As technology continues to develop, slot machine players can expect better features, more exciting gameplay, and more alluring ways of playing slots online.