Online Slots vs Offline Slots

From the first one-armed bandit, the Liberty Bell in 1887 to modern machines in Las Vegas and their online counterparts -- the history of the slot machines has seen it all. Many things have changed since then, but the idea remains -- spinning reels, usually three of them must stop at the combination of one from the pay table, usually three equal images on each. Let's take a look at what technology changes have the slot machines gone through, and most importantly the differences between classic and online machines.

The main functional unit of a slot machine is the random number generator (RNG) which in today's machines is a software running on an embedded computer. The outcomes of each spin are pre-determined by this unit and the rest is just visual graphics for player entertainment. In that sense, online slot machines are just simplified version of their "real-life" counterparts. Does that mean there are no other differences but that? More often then not there are and many.

First of all, let's have a look at where these machines are deployed. The offline machines are in casino houses and are under strict regulations in different countries. Everything is regulated, a slot machine must have a minimal payout percentage, the gameplay must follow the accepted rules. Near-miss is one such rule. It is not allowed to program a machine to create an illusion of near-miss situations to call on player's desire to win. In fact, such regulations leave little room for imagination to manufacturers, especially when marketing is concerned.

That makes online slots completely different. Even though the technology is exactly the same, the rules may highly differ. Because the online casinos are being run by off-shore companies that are not regulated by strict laws (especially after online casinos ban in US), the casino holders can pretty much do anything they want. That means not only near-miss programming, but also preference over the bet amount, even tracking of player's performance and reacting accordingly. Mind you, the most reputable online casino's will try to have their machines as close to reality as possible, but that doesn't mean you can't expect to see some tricks.

Having that in mind, a player can create his or her tactics taking into account the differences between online and offline playing. For example, while real slot machines have their RNGs running at all times and there is a difference as to when you have a spin, you can save the breath online - obviously they are not running at all times and the outcome is always determined at the very instant you push the button.

To conclude, even though the exposed differences will not make you rich, having them in mind can be helpful albeit just in small way. This gives a chance to find your perfect slot machine online as it would never be the case offline. And as a closing tip, unlike in casino houses, online you can always play free slots as you are trying the machines -- there are thousands of them and even a penny on each can cost you a fortune.