For decades, it has been called the "one-armed bandit." Slot machines historically have had a lever - that "one arm" - that patrons pull to get paid off. Slot machines are in top casino's around the world and are among the most popular games played by any casino goer, whether it is in person or online.

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The slot machine was invented in San Francisco, California in the late 1800s by a man named Charles Fey, and it featured a lever and it was called the Liberty Bell. If the bells lined up, a player won. The machines became very popular and were banned in the early 1900s. But owners found a way around that, giving away products instead of money. This tactic is still used in many states in the U.S. where gambling is illegal. Slots pay off in goods or coupons instead of money.

Fortunately, the top casino's now don't have to worry about that, especially the ones online.

For the longest part of their history, the slot machines were totally mechanical. But in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, slot machines became electric technological advances changed them significantly. Once the Random Number Generator was introduced – a computer program that was designed to spin the numbers and create random results, the slot machine took off to a new level. Progressive slots were born, and the opportunity to win big money with slot machines at top casino's was there for everyone who played.

In the 1990s, the slot machine found its new level – online casino gaming. The “one-armed bandit” had truly grown up. Thanks to software breakthroughs, all of the top casino's online now had access to the most popular game.

Online play offers the same games that are popular in live top casino's, but in a convenient, play at home format.

Most online top casino's are reputable and reliable, but do so some research to find the right one for you.

The games online have even more bells and whistles and offer the player more options than ever before. And the growth of progressive play gives players an opportunity to win big money from the comfort of their own home. Online play also connects networks of progressive jackpots and allows for an even bigger possible return.

It would be hard to imagine in the late 1800s that the device created by Charles Fey would be readily available everywhere. Thanks to the boom, slot machines are in real top casino's, online top casino's, even bars. Many racetracks in America have gone to slot machines as a way to supplement their income and stay in business.

The growth of this incredible device has revolutionized gambling. And there is no telling where it will go in the future. Technological breakthroughs continue. Many slot games now are not even spins anymore; they are variations that make them more entertaining.

It will be interesting to see where the future of the slot will go. Thanks to the online boom, you can take your laptop and play anywhere.