It was the end of the 1800s when the first slot machine came into the market. It was Charles Fey of San Francisco, California who came up with the idea for a mechanical slot machine. His initial goal was to earn some extra money by offering local casinos his machine for a 50% split of the profits.  His idea was to create ongoing revenue for himself and share his inventing skill with the world.

What Fey did was way beyond anything he could imagine. The casinos he leased the machines to loved them. Although at the time the machines were a primitive version of today’s model and had a single arm with 3-reels, people were lined up to play the games. His first machine was built in his workshop and though it was simple, it still was very similar to the machines of today in terms of look. The one armed bandit was born and there was no stopping it! Once the popularity was known, Fey quickly teamed up with Mills Novelty Company. The goal was to create a newer and slicker version of his old machine. After working together they came up with the “Mills Liberty Bell” in 1907. The machine was cast iron and featured patriotic symbols.

During the 1940s the machine would really take off since that was when Las Vegas was starting to build itself as the nation’s gambling capital. It was Bugsy Siegel who first picked up the slot machine and put it on his casino floor. Once its popularity became known there, it again moved to be one of the most in-demand games. This caused Vegas to embrace the slot machine with open arms.

Over the years the machine has evolved into one of the most dynamic and diverse games around. Though the premise is the same, there are so many different styles. There are 3, 5, and 7-reel games. There are now paylines. There are symbols, scatters and wilds to help you make combinations to win. Another added bonus is the payline benefit. Now there are numerous ways to win because it’s not just one line you’re trying to match now. You can activate any number of lines to up your chances. Though Fey would probably not know how to handle the development of his machine, he would still be proud to see where its come over the last century.

If you are a fan of the Freaky Slot games then you should love 888 casino.  The website just announced that they will be offering more games in the series. These were also developed by CTXM and introduced first at the EIG Expo last month. 888 also announced its ongoing working relationship with CTXM, citing successful launches from the past as the impetus.  The 3D games will be featured on the 888 website and add to the charm of the Freaky Slots Family of games.

CEO of CTXM Udy Yosha stated, “We are very pleased to extend our relations with 888, one of the world’s most popular online gaming companies. We believe that innovative features and enhanced gameplay will enrich 888’s offering and strengthen our relationship.”  The two giants know what each one has to offer and together they believe that they are creating a huge dent in the market of online slots play.  They are both dynamic and on the verge of growth and putting their businesses together will only create a bigger buzz in the industry.

The new games form part of a collection that is made of seven highly exciting titles. They include Freaky Gym and Freaky Wild West. The 3D slots will fit easily onto 888’s intergrateable platform, and players will be able to enjoy gaming at the 888 casinos. Not only do they offer great games, but they offer some of the safest and most rewardign gaming experiences online today. Yosha added, “During EIG our new slots received special attention from our existing and potential partners. We did our best to increase excitement in our games, bringing an extraordinary gaming atmosphere to players. We believe that our new gameplay will increase player immersion and will maximize revenues of our partners.”

The best things about The Freaky Slots collection are their 3D capabilities, of course, but also the story lines. It’s most likely the latter that truly keeps players coming back. The developers put a lot of time and effort into building the games and makign them into a true gaming experience for visitors. There is no doubt that these games will keep players entertained. Senior VP of 888 said, “We constantly look to deliver a superior gaming experience to our players. CTXM games have provided such an experience and we are confident that these new games will also be well received by our players.”

The Head of Casino at GTech’s new interactive gaming product, G2 has introduced plans to update the group’s casino software. Company spokesman Dominic Mansour stated, “Our acquisitions of Dynamite Idea, Finsoft, Boss Media and St. Miniver have added a group of standalone games to the existing Boss Media core casino products.” He stated that the update includes the introduction of seven new stand alone games, among them several dynamic slots games. Some of the new games are:

•  Luxor Temple- This is an Egyptian-themed video slot game that has three jackpots and other bonuses. It’s a great game to play and the visuals are outstanding. If you enjoy Egypt, then this is a great game for you. Enjoy the bonuses and get a huge variety of mini-games to benefit from. Winning big with this game is no problem
• Rockin’ Fruits- This is a cute little game. If you are a fan of the traditional fruit machine then you’ll enjoy this one. It’s got some cute visual appeal and should keep any slots player interested.  Check out the special scatters here for some added secret fun.
• Pursuit- This game is the traditional racing-themed game. It’s a progressive slots game and that’s good news for a lot of players. Progressive slots mean progressive jackpots and those can be big.  If you like the excitement of maximizing your paylines and wagers, check this game out. It could pay out big if you get lucky.
• Burning Ocean- This is an IVT slot game and lives up to its developers’ name. The gaming quality is great and there are a variety of bonus features built in to keep you gaming fun. Check this game out if you like fast-paced play and fun sounds.

GTech also announced their release of several new games that include Irish Magic and Spot of Luck. Both games have tons of chances to double, and even quadruple, winnings. Check these games out if you like to maximize your chances of winning– and who doesn’t?

The new software will enter the market in November and goes live officially at Sportingbet and Gaming VC, the group that operates the popular Casino Club site. Some other notable features are diverse currency options, multi-lingual capabilities and an improved gaming management system.

Slots of Vegas online is now compatible with MAC users’ computer systems. One of the MAC users’ consistent complaints is their being edged out of the general online gaming public. Developers have long left MAC users in the cold in terms of compatibility. One-hundred percent of the emphasis was put on the PC user and making his or her online gaming experience a good one. Part of the reason for this is because a lot of casinos offer software that needs to be downloaded to a personal computer to use.

Slots of Vegas is aware of the problem and in response, it has launched several instant play slot machines that can be enjoyed by those who prefer the Macintosh operating system. This system of gaming caters to the MAC user before by developing a downloadable gaming platform for their use. They have developed their offering even further now though by allowing MAC users to play without downloading. Much  like a flash-based instant play option PC users have, now MAC players have the same option. It’s great news for gamers who love their MACs. Now they’ll be able to effortlessly take part in huge tournaments and slots play at the website too.

At one time the MAC users were out in the cold. Fortunately, Slots of Vegas is looking for new markets to tap into and the MAC market is a huge one.  For a long time they have been ignored by developers due to the differences in gaming software necessary for them to play. Currently Slots of Vegas brings players over 100 great games to choose from including slots from the premier Real Series video slot collection, such as Aztec’s Treasure, Outta This World, Prince of Sherwood and Cleopatra’s Gold. The website also offers MAC users classic three-reel games and video slots. In addition to slots, the online casino also offers video poker, table games such as Blackjack and Pontoon, as well as specialty games including American and European roulette, European Slot Poker and Bonus Bingo. There is also a huge 300% sign-up bonus going on now at the casino. It’s for all new players. They also boast top level customer care with a live-chat option, secure servers and gambling resources.

Intertops Casino has some great slots games to offer.  Online slots fans will be excited to know that not only are there new slots games on the website, but there are also a huge number of progressive slots games to enjoy. If you’re a fan of slots play and winning big, this just may be the casino for you.

The first slots game they are intriducing is a sequel to Shopping Spree. If you recall Shopping Spree was a game that quickly gained notoriety in the world of gaming and became a favorite right away. The sequel doesn’t disappoint. Shopping Spree II takes players on yet another shopping adventure. One of the best advantages of this game is that regardless of your bankroll, you can still join in on the fun.

Players can stretch their cash here due to the enormous number of bonus rounds, free games and special symbols to help them out. The game is a progressive slot machine with images of sparkling diamond rings, designer sunglasses, pearl necklaces, hand bags, shoes, credit cards, shopping bags, dollar signs, and more! The “Sale” symbol is the wild, and you will get it only on the middle reel.  It’s a stacked wild symbol too- which means that multiple “Sale” icons will appear on top of each other. This is a great bonus because you can create more wins this way. If you do get the “Sale” symbol it substitutes for all other symbols except the scattered “Shopping Spree II” symbol. When the “Sale” creates a winning combination, your prize can be multiplied by up to 20X.

The second game offered by Intertops is Tripler Twister. This game too has some great bonus features. One of the most notable is the “win win” and this allows players to get a different type of bonus if their winnings from the main round of the game come up less than ten times their actual betting amount.

Both of these games are worth looking into. In addition, the website InterTops is offering a wide variety of progressive games to enjoy. The biggest jackpot currently is a huge number- $1,500,000.  Another bit of good news is that US players are welcome and it uses RTG software.

CryptoLogic is at it again! The company is known in the online gaming industry as a giant. They release some of the best online games and know how to build excitement and great graphics to captivate anyone’s attention. The software company has released two huge games that are sure to take over the industry quickly.

Batman and Wonder Woman are two DC comics that have stood the test of time. Batman has had huge success in the movie world- with sequel after sequel breaking boxoffice records. Each one had a new high-profile star that put their own spin on the story of Gotham City and its superhero. Not to mention the marketing that went along with those movies that included action figures, merchandise, t-shirts, posters and every other outlet imaginable. Every generation knows about Batman and has lived through his development over their lifetime.

Then there is Wonder Woman. She’s the girls’ favorite because of her crime-fighting abilities, while still looking girly.  She was made famous back in the 70s with Linda Carter and then remained a staple in the world of DC Comic book heroines Wonder Woman is one of the most notable figures in the women’s world of heroes and she too has made a huge profit for studios off of merchandise.

Now CryptoLogic is taking a step with these two heroes. The games, Batman and Wonder Woman complement the software group’s collection of games based on Marvel Comics perfectly. The company already released Super Hero Slots. Now this. The new Batman game comes with 50 paylines, and some great bonuses. These include wilds and free spins. To top it off there are also a good number of multipliers to take advantage of.  There is also an exciting bonus game to get to if player’s get lucky. In the bonus game they take on The Joker and get the opportunity to multiply their bets as high as 100 times over.

Wonder Woman has the same outstanding structure. This one is another 50 payline game that’s fast paced and fun. The bonus features in Wonder Woman include numerous multipliers and free spins. The great thign about this game is its pace. It can be played by avid players who demand great gaming, big potential payouts and perfect graphics. If you’re in the market for a new game, check either one of these two out and you won’t be disappointed.

News in the industry of online slots play is that 888 is at the lead in terms of payout.  This month the casino lived up to its reputation by offering the biggest jackpot ever to be seen online. Players who log onto the website have the chance to win a huge payout of: £8,888,888!  If that looks like a huge number, it is because it is! All you have to do for your chance to win is play the casino slot game Pirates Millions.

The opportunity to play for this amount is open to UK players and the jackpot is part of the huge push for the Pirates Millions slots game. Pirate’s Millions is a 3 reel 1-line traditional slot machine that has a notable win of 2,500 coins. The game comes from the MicroGaming team- which means its most likely an outstanding game. It uses time-tested interface and animations plus realistic sounds and illustrations.  You can put up to three coins on one payline and pick which paytable you want to play for.  Obviously, the more you bet, the more you can win. Like the name of the game suggests, this is a pirate-themed slots game that features. skulls, cross-bones, flags and treasure.

This super jackpot is part of the website’s launch of the Pirates Millions game. Also it’s good to remember that there are perks built by the website for players. First of all, any palyer who signs up and downloads the 888 software gets three free spins to use on the game of their choice. And second, they also get a chance to win the jackpot. Players deposit real money into their accounts and continue trying their luck on this slots game, but in theory, UK casino fans have a chance of walking away with the huge jackpot at no cost to them whatsoever. The reason for this is the sign-up bonus can help out. UK players are being courted for this offer through a barrage of media outlets including TV ads, online advertisements and billboards throughout the cities it includes.

888 is one of those online casinos you want to check back at frequently. In addition to their huge jackpots, there is also a substantial first-time welcome bonus. The casino offers a 100% bonus of up to $200 on their first real money account deposit.

4)    Grand Victoria Casino Elgin:  The Grand Victoria Casino is the online remaining Illinois riverboat casino in the Chicago area. If you are looking for high-end slots, then visit this casino. It offers a huge variety of slots games for those who want dynamic gaming and big potential payouts. It pays out a lot too—so if you’re feeling lucky, this may be the place for you to venture out to.  There are $5-slots too. If you have a little more money to gamble with, check these out. Sure they cost a little more to wager on, but the payout is worth it. If you manage to hit it big, you will be glad you tested your luck here.

5)    Hollywood Casino Aurora: This casino is in a great area with a comfortable single-level barge location. Sure it looks nice, but over the years time has not been good to this casino. Although there are some slots, the list is outdated. If you are looking for standard slots games, you’ll find them here. It has the basics, but in terms of additional amenities, this casino isn’t at the top of the list for a reason.  In general, this casino is in need of some repairs and updates. For basic gaming needs, however, it still performs.

6)    Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel: This is another casino that is a little dated. The difference between this casino and Hollywood Casino Aurora is that this one is undergoing some current renovations. Hopefully they will quickly restore it to its former glory. Again, if you are a slots player, then this could be a good option for your gambling needs. The slots are limited, but you’ll find all the standards here.  Check it out if you want basic slots found everywhere. Hopefully with some updating this casino will be a true contender in the world of Chicago-area gaming again.

7)    Argosy’s Empress Casino & Hotel: This is a great casino with great promotions. If you get in on the Player’s Club, you can truly take advantage of some huge savings. The casino is a 2-level barge facility. The slot machine selection is outstanding here. It could use some updating, but if you are looking for a wide variety of games, then this could be the answer to your needs. It’s a very easily accessible casino and should offer hours of fun to any slots player.

Check out any of the above casinos, with a few exceptions, for your slots play. Even those that are lacking still build promotions and regular events that could potentially benefit your gaming needs.

If you are a slots player and live in the Chicago-area, consider yourself lucky. Not only do you have a huge variety of casinos to play slots at, but you also have a great opportunity to sort through them all.  Here are some of the biggest advantages and disadvantages of each one.

1)    Jack Binion’s Horseshoe Casino Hammond: This casino is known in the Midwest as a “gambler’s casino.” It caters to all its guests and in particular, its high-roller clientele are always satisfied.  The casino has a wide variety of table games—in fact, this is the place you want to be if table games are your games of choice. The $1 and $5-slots are outstanding here too. If you are a slot machine player, check the Horseshoe Casino out. In addition, this casino has a restaurant with a great reputation for excellence. Not only is the food considered a cut above the rest, but it’s also a great value to visitors.

2)    Harrah’s East Chicago Hotel & Casino: This is a huge boat with an adjoining hotel tower. The hotel features top-notch quality and amenities. One of the biggest advantages of this casino is the nickel-slots. There is a huge selection to go through so if you are a slots lover, this is one of the best casinos to check out. In addition, this casino has a great atmosphere—lights, color, visual appeal are all a part of the casino floor.  Check out the atmosphere and see for yourself how exciting it is. The property recently upgraded its video poker and slot roster, and is in the process of a $27-million renovation that will make it even better.

3)    Majestic Star & Trump Casino & Hotel Gary: These two operations share the same area in Buffington Harbor. As of late a lot has been done to create a better gaming experience at these casinos. There is a new renovated buffet area with dazzling selections of foods and an area for music called the Koko Taylor Blues Club. This casino offers some of the best video poker in the Chicago area. They also are the only location where you can find 2¢-slots and nickel triple play, five play and ten play video poker. In particular their unique 2¢-slots are something to look at. The games are diverse and fun and fit into any bankroll.

Part two coming up…

• Tip 5- If the casino you’re playing in has a VIP card, always use it when playing at a slot machine. Normally these bonuses are free and offer you all kinds of perks. You may get specials, comps and promotions. You even may be entered into a drawing for VIPs that are on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Take advantage of these rewards to maximize your winnings.
• Tip 6- Don’t wait for a slot machine to payout. If you are feeling particularly unlucky, walk away. There are plenty of machines out there to try. Or take a break altogether. You never know when the big jackpot is one spin away from you!
• Tip 7- When playing slots, always play the maximum bet and maximum amount of paylines when playing the progressives. You may be dazzled by the progressive jackpot amount, but normally you can only qualify for it if you wager a certain amount and play all your paylines. Be sure to understand the rules and then do both.
• Tip 8- Machines that take bigger wagers pay out more. This doesn’t mean that you are sure to get the payout, but it does mean that you are increasing your chances of winning the big payout. If you take Tip 1 and set your limits, this should be relatively easy to manage.
• Tip 9- Always break your bankroll down into betting increments. This means if you are planning on staying at Atlantic City for three days, cut your total bankroll to have money for each day. For example, if you have a total of $1,200 to gamble with, set your limit for each day at $400.
• Tip 10- Start small when playing slots. Begin your gaming session on the 3-reel games. They are a good place to start when you want to build up your bankroll. They aren’t too expensive normally and will help you to make money quickly. Once you build some money up, then you can start venturing into the world of higher priced slots.

 Slot Machines are fun. That’s a reality. But they also can be tricky if you don’t mind some basic tips and tricks. Keep the above in mind and then have fun!