The arrival of the Internet in everyone’s homes has profoundly changed many daily routines, not the least of which is how we entertain ourselves and how we spend our relaxing hours. The Internet, however, continues to evolve at a rapid pace and often leaves behind activities and games that fail to adapt to change. Fortunately, this is not the case with slot machines, which, albeit with their traditional game playing, have managed to change their faces and keep up with the new needs of Internet users. It is precisely for this reason that we will analyze the stages of this evolution today and, at the same time, try to speculate on the possible scenarios for future development of the sector.
Analog vs. digital: which is the best type of slot?
The offerings of the world of slot machines are truly vast: while classic analog slots offer the possibility of having fun “like in the old days,” thanks to their traditional appearance and straightforward operation, digital slot machines, on the other hand, allow you to enjoy a more captivating, fast, and varied gaming experience, thanks also to the huge amount of options offered, which are increasing in technological levels as the years go by.
For a final evaluation, it is therefore necessary to rely on one’s individual inclinations: those who prefer to play in physical casinos will be able to enjoy analog slots, knowing that they are dealing with great classics but perhaps sacrificing something when it comes to modernity; those who prefer the convenience of playing anywhere, whether from their homes or in transit using a smartphone or tablet, will be able to find their perfect fit in online slot machines.
Slot machines keep evolving
There’s a huge amount going on here! When it comes to online slots for real money, we have to say that the developers who create them and continue to renew them have great merit, understanding the technological potential offered by the Internet and adapting their approach to the traditional operation of reels and combinations. Today, in fact, playing with an online slot means immersing oneself in a universe of bonus modes that are activated when particular combinations are obtained. In addition, mini-games of skill, in 3D settings, with dedicated soundtracks, and even in virtual or augmented reality environments are creating a variety unthinkable just ten years ago.
All this has been done without changing one of the successful elements that have made slot machines one of the most popular and appreciated games worldwide. Let’s try some practical examples: among the most recent slot machines that deserve attention, we find Buffalo King Megaways, a title that cleverly mixes the charms of classic slot machines with the most recent innovations that have appeared in the field. Another of the approaches that is going mainstream, both among traditional fans and those who are only now getting into this style of game, is themed slots dedicated to movies, comic books, TV series, and music groups. Starting the revolution was the game dedicated to the colossal hit “Gladiator.” This was a huge success and paved the way for all the games that came later, with their scenes extracted directly from the stories, augmented by the original soundtracks and the voices of the protagonists, rewarding you when you hit the winning combinations.
This is just one example of how adapting concepts from other areas we know and love is revolutionizing the very concept of gaming from within – and we are absolutely here for this!
Adaptation, along with multichannel and mobile gaming, represents the three areas in which slot machines of the future will be developed. Given how popular themed slots have become, everything suggests that the mixing of genres will be even more pronounced in the coming years, with totally hybrid titles that will bring together roleplaying games, casino disciplines, and – why not – even the famous and increasingly popular MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena).
Mobile devices and slot machines
The other areas – multichannel and mobile – are definitely going hand in hand, with platforms that will be increasingly user-friendly, fast, and responsive for both those who play from fixed locations and those who prefer devices such as smartphones and tablets to have fun anywhere.
In this sense, the decision of an increasing number of operators to launch their most successful titles into the online orbit and to create the famous slot machines in “portrait” mode (that is, those designed and launched exclusively for mobile devices) is to be welcomed. And in this picture, we have not mentioned the increasing impact that virtual reality and augmented reality will have on our lives. Connections are becoming faster, visors less expensive, and at the same time more performant and sensitive. AR and VR are catching on in so many areas. Everything suggests that new technologies will also change slots, perhaps allowing us to experience the magical atmosphere of Las Vegas casinos directly from our couch.
