How Online Slots Are Created

Creating casino slots is a complicated process requiring proficiency in graphic design, programming, UX, and sound design. Several steps should ensure the slot game is fun, engaging, and meets the regulatory requirements. How are slots made nowadays? Keep reading to find out the answer.

The first slot machine

Let’s start with a bit of historical facts. The origins of casino slots can be traced back to the late 19th century when Charles Fey, a mechanic from California, created the first slot machine. Fey's invention featured three reels with various symbols, such as diamonds, spades, bells, and horseshoes. This machine quickly gained popularity and set the foundation for modern-day slot machines.

The first online casino was opened in 1994, and online slots enabled players to enjoy their favorite slot games from their homes. Modern-day slots feature complex software and random number generators to ensure fair and unbiased results. They also feature various themes and bonus features, with some games offering huge jackpots worth millions of dollars.

Step 1: Design and thematics

The foundation of creating a casino slot is to choose a concept. This involves developing a theme for the game: Ancient Egypt, Horrors, Holiday-themed slot, etc. The theme sets the tone for the game and helps determine the symbols, background, and sound effects that will be used. 

Once the concept is done, a designer makes visuals to show how it will look to a user. Game designers create sketches and wireframes to visualize the layout and user experience, and the team decides on the game's colors, symbols, and features. After the sketches, it’s time to create the artwork and animation. This can significantly influence a game's success. The designer creates sketches, storyboards, and animations that bring the game's theme to life. Symbols, backgrounds, and animations are designed to appeal to and engage players visually. 

Step 2: Programming phase

Then the developing process begins. First, the game developer uses mathematical formulas and algorithms to determine the game's mechanics, such as the paytable, return to player (RTP), and the probability of winning. The RTP is the percentage of money returned to the player over time, and the paytable is a list of winning combinations and their corresponding payouts. The game's volatility can be calculated at this stage by looking at the frequency and size of payouts.

The next part of the programming phase is writing code that will govern the game mechanics, user interface, and other features. This involves using programming languages and software tools to build the game. The programming phase also includes developing the user interface (buttons, menu bar, bets, etc.), which is part of the game that the player interacts with. 

Step 3: Testing and release

After the code is done, it’s time to test and certify the game. It should be rigorously tested to ensure that it is fair, reliable, and meets the jurisdiction's regulatory requirements where it will be offered. The testing process includes verifying that the RNG is working correctly, that the game is not biased towards the house, and that the game's payout percentage is within the acceptable range. At 1xBet Casino, we work only with trustworthy game providers independently audited and certified by the authority to ensure all games are fair. 

Once the game has been tested and certified, it is ready for distribution to online casinos. Players can play the game for real money, with the chance to win big payouts if they hit the right combination of symbols. Ongoing maintenance and updates may be required to keep the game running smoothly and to introduce new features. Game providers may also analyze player data to fine-tune the game's mechanics and adjust the game over time. Despite the complexity of the process, the result is a fun and engaging gaming experience that can provide hours of entertainment for players worldwide.