How to Build a Slot Machine From Scratch

A narrow notch, groove, or opening, as in a keyway, slit for a coin in a machine, etc.

The Slot machine has a long and storied history, attracting droves of enthusiastic gamers over several generations. The first three-reel slot machines were invented in 1895 by Charles Fey, a mechanic from San Francisco. The machine was called the Liberty Bell and it featured spinning reels emblazoned with symbols like horseshoes, diamonds, and the eponymous liberty bell.

By the 1960s, electronic components had been added to slot machines, allowing them to pay out winning combinations more frequently and with larger jackpots. Today, slot machines are powered by sophisticated microprocessors that use a random number generator (RNG) to determine the positions of symbols on the reels. Whether players are hoping to line up matching symbols or just win some cash, they’re usually greeted with high-fidelity attention-grabbing music and amusing animations.

During the concept phase, your artists will produce initial sketches and wireframes to display how your game will look statically. Then, your developers will start building a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP). Your MVP will include game art like characters and symbols as well as basic UI elements. During this phase, your developers will also test and remove issues that may prevent the game from working as intended. These tests can include unit testing, integration testing, and user acceptance testing. The goal is to ensure your slot game works as expected and is ready for release.