All industries have gone through changes over time, with the gambling industry being no exception to this rule. The advent of the internet and our technological age have greatly impacted the way that we work, play, and entertain ourselves. The humble fruit slot machine was cutting-edge during its hay day but these days, an increasing number of players are opting to take their chances on virtual machines and games. It’s not hard to see why. The online offerings of the original game boast exciting and epic features that have turned a social hobby for some into a weekly, and solo, indulgence.

Factors That Contribute to Increased Popularity

The virtual world is not bound by the player's misconceptions that are apparent at land-based locations. Brick-and-mortar venues have recorded higher numbers of middle-aged to elderly slot players opposed to those under 30 years old. This is due to the notion that slots are boring or meant for an older crowd, while younger and more serious players flock to table games such as Poker and Roulette. The stigma that has attached itself to land-based slot machines is an unfair one that the online gambling industry has managed to eradicate by offering players the privacy they require, among other things. Here’s how developers and operators have overcome the misconceptions.

Cutting-Edge Features

The slot machine has come a long way from the 3-reel fruit slot machine that it started as. Over time, developers have added elements to the game that have improved the functionality of the game, increased the excitement, and attracted younger grounds. The free spins and special symbols built into online slot games these days have become a new norm that guarantees hours of thrilling gameplay and more rewarding wins across the board.

Immersive Experiences

The younger generation is often called superficial. What players don’t like to look at, they will not give any attention. While one-armed bandits are a respected classic, newer and younger players are more likely to go for online slots that appeal to the senses. Graphic designers and artists have joined software development companies to increase the aesthetic of games. However, the way the game looks is just one of the battles won. Players also enjoy a bit of music or reference to pop-culture, to accompany gameplay, which has birthed one of the most popular modern slot genres: the Themed-slot. Online players are suckers for themes that they love whether it’s about musicians, popular movies, or literary characters, and are attracted to the immersive experience it provides.

Other Ways Technology Has Transformed the Industry

It would be counter-productive for technology to be responsible for the enhancement of a gaming genre while the entire gaming experience gets left in the 1960s. Technological advancement has been a driver behind the increasing popularity of not only online slots, but online casinos too. Here are some of the other ways technology has evolved the industry.

Payment Methods

Long gone are the days of antiquated and limited payment options of credit cards or bank transfers. The last ten years have birthed some of the greatest advancements in how funds are sent and received. The online gambling industry has embraced these changes and now offers various payment methods such as e-wallets, cryptocurrencies, and prepaid payment cards.

Mobile Functionality

Last but not least, we have the mobile functionality that is built into many sites these days. Advanced HTML technology has allowed desktop sites to render seamlessly to mobile devices. This has led to players being able to play their favorite games on-the-go, contributing to the current success of the industry.

Conclusion

The age of technology has certainly dawned. The improvements and advancements made have impacted the online gaming industry significantly and have almost driven land-based locations to the brink of extinction. If ever proof was needed to that technology reigns supreme, skeptics need not look any further.