What is a Slot?
A narrow depression, perforation, or opening, especially one for receiving a piece fitting into or sliding in it. A slot in a machine is where you place your coin. I slipped the disc into its slot in the dash.
An area in a schedule or program for an activity. Visitors can book a time slot a week in advance.
On a slot machine, each symbol has its own number, which is then translated by the random-number generator to a set of numbers that correspond to combinations on the reels. When a button is pushed or a handle pulled, the machine sets these numbers into motion and stops on a particular combination. Whether it’s the three lined-up liberty bells or the seven of spades, the winning symbols are paid out depending on the machine’s paytable.
Charles Fey’s invention was different from the Sittman and Pitt machine in that it allowed players to buy a specific line of symbols (the gold-ball bonus). Combined with a special feature that paid out only when all the symbols lined up on the center reel, his slot made him rich.
Today, video slots can have up to 50 pay lines and multiple ways to win. Most have a theme, including a style or location, with symbols and bonus features aligned with that theme. They also have more advanced features such as touch-screen technology and built-in progressive jackpots.