What is a Slot?
A narrow notch, groove, slit, or opening, especially one for receiving something, as a coin or a letter. Also, a position or assignment: He was slotted into management training.
A notch or narrow opening in a surface or object, for example, the keyhole of a door or the slot of an umbrella handle. Also, a place or time in a program or schedule: Visitors can book their time slot online.
In the modern world of casino games, attractive themes, designs and story lines are essential in order to attract players. It is therefore no surprise that slots often feature characters, symbols and settings from famous movies, TV shows or rock bands. Some even allow players to follow a storyline similar to that of a gripping drama or game show.
The first slot machine was invented in 1895 by Charles Fey of San Francisco. His machines were designed to resemble the gambling devices used in saloons. They elicited the strong objections of moralists and the clergy and were eventually banned. But they quickly found a niche in restaurants and other public places where they were used to entertain patrons between drinks or cigars.
Today, casino managers are under pressure to maximize their slot revenues and are therefore cautious about increasing the house advantage too much. They fear that players will perceive these hidden increases in the cost of play and choose to go elsewhere. This is why so many casinos avoid raising the house edge by a very large amount, as this will merely drive customers away in search of better value.