As the popularity of slot games increases, developers are getting more sophisticated in their understanding of what makes them tick. They’re also cognizant that some players may experience negative consequences of their gambling behavior (Lahn, 2005).
As a result, slot designers are leaning on data more than ever to make sure their games will deliver what casino customers want. The SG Connect system, for example, will provide valuable insights into player behavior. This information will help the company and its operator customers make better game design decisions, increasing revenue for both parties.
While microprocessors aren’t yet used on a three-reel stepper, they have been implemented in electronic slot machines since the 1980s. Manufacturers use the computer to “weight” particular symbols, so that they appear more often than others on the screen. To the eye, this can make a machine appear to be paying out frequently, even though the odds of hitting those symbols are much lower than that.
In an attempt to appeal to a younger generation, manufacturers have begun offering skill-based slots. These new devices use paddle controls to control the reels and give players the opportunity to compete with other players, just like video games. This head-to-head competition has become popular with players who grew up playing digital electronics, as well as those who enjoy the challenge of trying to beat the odds.
Despite the fact that most gamblers engage in recreational play, a significant number of them are at risk for serious gambling problems. For some, the allure of a slot machine is an effective way to escape painful emotional experiences (Abbot & Volberg, 1996; Getty, Watson, & Frisch, 2000).