Certain slot machines have been captivating players for decades. Among them, progressive jackpot games offer the ultimate in gaming excitement. Awarding players life-changing payouts, some of these games are digital marvels that leave an indelible mark on both land-based casinos and online gaming platforms.
The Origin of Progressive Slots
Progressive jackpot slots made their debut in the mid-1980s. This period marked a major shift in the gaming industry.
The first wide area progressive jackpot system was called Megabucks, developed by International Game Technology (IGT). The game was launched in Las Vegas casinos in 1986, and it was the first time slot machines in multiple casinos were linked into one network, accumulating a big jackpot. This innovation meant that a fraction of each bet placed on the machines contributed to a single, massive jackpot pool which could be won by any player on any one of the network’s slot machines.
In the large Las Vegas gaming resorts, the “Megabucks” jackpot starts at $10 million. This base amount is the minimum jackpot in play. However, depending on the jurisdiction and region, the starting jackpot may have a different value. In Las Vegas, the network jackpot starts at 10 million, but in Canada, the prize pool starts at 1 million.
Since 1986, progressive slots have really gained ground and nowadays, this type of game often creates a frenzy among slot enthusiasts. It’s the case in the big gaming complexes, but also on the Internet, at real-money online casinos.
Digital Revolution
In the early 1990s, the advent of the Internet and the surge of online casinos ushered in a new era for slot machines.
Microgaming, a pioneer in online casino gaming software, released the first progressive jackpot slot game in 1998, called Cash Splash. The retro-style game is still going strong, and popular with many slot fans. The slot is playable from as little as 20 cents per spin, and offers the chance to win a jackpot seeded at $5,000. The max bet is $3 per spin for players who want to maximize their chances of winning big.
Cash Splash has remained hugely popular since its launch in 1998. As for hit frequency, the game’s progressive jackpot is won approximately every three days, with an average payout of $20,000. This means that the jackpot often reaches four times its seed value before being hit. If you want to give the game a try, we recommend Spin Casino. The online casino has many loyal customers, and accepts players from over 100 countries.
Slot Developers
Since 1998 to date, many game developers have entered the progressive slot market. The IGT Group remains the global number one in land-based casinos, and Games Global and NetEnt are the leading iGaming providers.
Games Global offers players several legendary progressive jackpot slot series, the most iconic being Mega Moolah. Released in 2006, the slots pay out incredible jackpots several times a year.
With a vast portfolio of games, Games Global is committed to delivering innovative new ideas and exceptional gaming content. Its new King Millions network jackpot, launched in 2023, is already the most promising in the progressive jackpot niche. These Games Global games are currently the most sophisticated progressive slots available at online casinos.
Impact of Progressive Jackpot Slots
Progressive jackpot games have become a must in land-based and online casinos. In brick-and-mortar casinos, the machines create a hub of excitement, attracting players hoping to win a life-changing jackpot. Online slots offer the same level of excitement, and can be played at any time and from anywhere. The huge win potential of these games continues to attract players, contributing significantly to the popularity of progressive jackpot slots.
Land-based Slot Powerhouses
At land-based casinos, two leading providers stand out for their contribution to the slot industry.
- IGT
With its groundbreaking Megabucks machine, IGT remains a major player, offering a vast selection of engaging progressive slots.
Source: www.igt.com - Aristocrat
Known for its innovative game designs and engaging themes, the provider is also behind some of the most successful progressive slot series.
Source: www.aristocratgaming.com
The two companies not only drive the development of slot machine technology, but also play a crucial role in shaping the gaming experience in casinos around the world. Large gaming resorts in the USA, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia and Asia all feature slots from these two industry leaders.
Charles Fey and the Invention of the Jackpot
In the 1970s, mechanical slot machines were replaced by electronic video slots. And from 1980 to 2000, digital technology revolutionized the industry. Today, we’re a long way from the world’s first slot machine, invented by Charles Fey in 1894. In 1927, Fey’s ingenuity led to the concept of a JACKPOT with THE DUO machine.
Players would insert a quarter into the slot, and then pull a lever to set two wheels spinning for a chance to win all the coins in the machine. We can therefore say that this invention is the origin of the progressive jackpot. There was no cap on the winnings, and the prize pool increased each time the game was played. To win the jackpot, the white segments had to face each other when the two wheels stopped spinning.
The DUO machine is highly sought after among collectors, especially models in working order. Machines in good condition sell for more than $50,000 at auction. Of course, the original Fey machines manufactured between 1894 and 1898 are in greatest demand.
Conclusion
The history of progressive jackpot slots highlights the dynamic development of the gaming industry. These games have transformed the way people gamble, offering the chance to win massive, life-changing jackpots. As technology advances and the gaming market continues to develop, the future of progressive jackpot slots promises even more excitement and innovation, driven by industry leaders such as Games Global and IGT.
Whether in the exciting atmosphere of a land-based casino, or the convenience of an online platform, progressive jackpot slots continue to reign supreme, captivating players who dream of winning a massive jackpot.