Slot machines
Slot machines in the Trump Taj Mahal
A slot machine (American English), fruit machine (British English), poker machine (Australian English) or simply slot (American English) is a casino gambling machine with three or more reels which spin when a button is pushed. Slot machines are also known as one-armed bandits because slot machines were originally operated by a lever on the side of the machine (the one arm) instead of a button on the front panel, and because of their ability to leave the gamer penniless. Many modern machines still have a legacy lever in addition to the button.
Slot machines include a currency detector that validates the coin or money inserted to play. The machine pays off based on patterns of symbols visible on the front of the machine when it stops. Modern computer technology has resulted in many variations on the slot machine concept. Slot machines are the most popular gambling method in casinos and constitute about 70 percent of the average casino's income.[1] It is estimated that thirty percent or more of the profits from gambling machines come from problem gamblers.[2]
The term derives from the slots on the machine for inserting and retrieving coins.
References
- ^ Cooper, Marc (December 2005). "How slot machines give gamblers the business". The Atlantic Monthly Group.
- ^ Strickland, Eliza (2008-06-16). "Gambling with science: Determined to defeat lawsuits over addiction, the casino industry is funding research at a Harvard-affiliated lab". Salon.
Bibliography
- Brisman, Andrew. The American Mensa Guide to Casino Gambling: Winning Ways (Stirling, 1999) ISBN 0-8069-4837-X
- Grochowski, John. The Slot Machine Answer Book: How They Work, How They've Changed, and How to Overcome the House Advantage (Bonus Books, 2005) ISBN 1-56625-235-0
- Legato, Frank. How to Win Millions Playing Slot Machines! ...Or Lose Trying (Bonus Books, 2004) ISBN 1-56625-216-4
Links
- HowStuffWorks: Slot Machines
- How Slot Machines Work
- Slot Machines explained
- Slot Machines database from 1898 to today
- U.S. Slot Machines Laws by State
- of WMS Gaming Slot Machine Manufacturer
- Slot machine terms
