Today’s fans of online slots would be shocked with how basic and simple the game was at the start. When slots began way back in 1895 there was only one game available – and only one machine to play it on!

That game was called Liberty Bell. It was an ingenious mechanical invention built by American engineer Charles Fey.

Fey’s customers were entertained by this strange new machine in his waiting room. They simply pulled its lever to spin three reels.

Symbols like bells, horseshoes and cards rotated on the reels. When they stopped they could line up for prizes – or not.

It was an instantly understandable game of chance. And Fey’s ideas caught on fast.

Slot machines rapidly grew in sophistication.

By the 60s they had electronic lights and sounds. In the 1990s, video slots were the latest thing. Visitors to real-life casino found ranks of flashing, buzzing slot machines.

The great online revolution began in 1996. Experts doubted that the simple slot format would work online.

Players proved them wrong. The fun and convenience were a winning combination.

There was no need to travel to visit a casino, you could play everywhere.

Designers soon created hundreds of slot themes from ancient mythology to the most popular movies. There was a slot game for everyone.

Jackpots were no longer just a tinkle of coins in a tray – they could be life-changing millions.

Now online slots dominate the gaming world. They generate over 70% of online casino revenue.

The latest figures show global online slot revenue is now over $15 billion a year.

Tens of millions are playing daily. Slots are a major part of the world’s entertainment industry.

The experts’ tips for playing online slots

The games are simple and readily available – but the online slot world can seem a big and confusing experience.

The ever-growing slot universe can sometimes seem a bit overwhelming. If you are sometimes left scratching your head, here are the top ten tips for anyone playing online slots:

Use Free Slots

The best advice is to use free games. There are plenty of promotional games online.

Use these to practice and understand gameplay. There’s no financial risk and it allows you to explore advanced features like wilds, scatters and bonus rounds.

Choose The Best Casinos

Pick reputable names and only play at the leading operators.

This means you will always get clear terms and conditions and secure payment methods. The best platforms give you the best experience – and keep your money and data safe.

Understand RTP Ratings

The ‘return-to-player’ rating is vital. This is the way the industry measures how much any game pays out over time.

An RTP rating of 96% means the game on average pays out $96 for every $100 wagered.
This means that a higher RTP slot game offers a better long-term chance to win.

Set a Budget

Decide at the start of a session a budget and how much you’re willing to spend. Then stick to it.

Stay calm when you win.

Winning and losing are part of the fun of the game. Play slots for enjoyment, not financial gain.

Learn About Paylines

Every game has its paylines. These are the patterns of symbols that determine wins.

Some have a few; others have hundreds. Discover what they are or you’ll never understand the game.

Games with multiple active paylines are more engrossing but will demand more attention.

Know The Volatility of Games

A low-volatility slot game pays smaller amounts more often. High-volatility slots pay less frequently – but pays bigger amounts at a time.

Choose your game depending on your risk preference.

Check Bonuses

Casinos offer welcome bonuses, free spins and slot promotions. These can help stretch your budget but always read the small print, especially the wagering requirements.

Explore Features

Online slots are now packed with extra features. Wilds can substitute symbols, scatters can trigger free spins and multipliers can boost winnings.
These can change your odds of winning – and will definitely boost your excitement.

Take Breaks

Slots can be fast and engrossing. Your heart-rate can soar.

The experienced players know to step away often to stay focused for longer. Take breaks to keep the slots fun and avoid overspending.

Don’t Be Superstitious

Slots are controlled by random number generators.

That means there’s no such thing as a lucky machine, a good day or a lucky way of pressing ‘play’. Fantasise a little if it adds to the fun but don’t start believing the superstitions.

Enjoy The Game

The reason slots are one of the world’s most popular games is they offer excitement and escape with every single spin.

The key to playing them isn’t discovering some mystical winning strategy. Winning is the bonus, not the goal. Instead approach slots as the world’s most brilliant cost-effective entertainment.