Names for Slot Machines: What Are the Other Names for Slot Machines?
Slot machines, those beloved games found in casinos around the world, are known by many different names.
While the term “slot machine” is universally recognised, the game has garnered various alternative names over the years, often influenced by region, culture, or the specific type of slot game being referred to.
Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or new to the world of casino gaming, it’s interesting to explore the different names that these machines go by. With insight from Clover Casino, let’s dive into the various terms used for slot machines and their origins.
Fruit Machines
Perhaps one of the most common alternative names, particularly in the UK, is the “fruit machine.” This name originates from the symbols used in early slot games, which often featured fruits like cherries, lemons, and oranges.
These fruit symbols were representative of traditional fruit machines from the 1950s and 1960s, commonly found in British pubs. Over time, the term “fruit machine” stuck, and it’s still widely used today across the UK and in other parts of the world.
One-Armed Bandit
The “one-armed bandit” is a classic and somewhat nostalgic nickname for a slot machine. This name emerged due to the machine’s physical design, which originally featured a lever on the side that players would pull to spin the reels.
This lever was often referred to as the “arm,” and since slot machines could be quite addictive, the term “bandit” was added to emphasize their ability to “steal” players’ money. Although modern slot machines are usually button-operated and don’t have the iconic lever anymore, the name “one-armed bandit” is still fondly used, particularly in classic casino settings.
Pokies
In Australia and New Zealand, slot machines are affectionately called “pokies.” The term is derived from the abbreviation of the word “poker machine,” which refers to an early type of slot machine that was similar to poker games.
Over time, the term evolved into “pokies” and became the standard name for all types of slot machines in both countries. The term is so ubiquitous that it’s almost impossible to find an Australian casino where people don’t refer to slots as pokies.
Slotters
Though not as common, “slotters” is occasionally used to refer to slot machines, especially in certain areas of the United States. It’s a simple and somewhat endearing nickname, likely derived from the word “slot” and used as a casual or colloquial term for these machines. It’s not as widely used as other terms, but it’s still an example of how local language can shape gaming terminology.
Fruit Slots
In some places, especially in the UK, you may also hear “fruit slots” used interchangeably with fruit machines. This term is primarily used in reference to slots that feature fruit symbols on the reels. Similar to the term “fruit machine,” “fruit slots” reflects the nostalgic design and theme of earlier slot games, and it is still used today to describe a specific type of slot machine that evokes traditional themes and imagery.
Video Slots
Though technically a type of slot machine, “video slots” refers to the modern, video-based slot machines that have evolved from the classic mechanical versions. These machines feature high-quality graphics, elaborate animations, and immersive themes, ranging from popular TV shows and movies to fantasy realms and historical themes.
The name “video slots” is widely used to distinguish them from classic mechanical or “reel” slots, and they have become the dominant type of slot game found in casinos worldwide.
Poker Machines
Similar to pokies, the term “poker machine” is frequently used in Australia and New Zealand. It originally referred to early slot machines that were modelled after poker games. Today, however, poker machines are simply another term for slot machines in these regions, although it can sometimes specifically refer to machines that offer poker-based themes or bonuses.
Mechanical Slots
Before the rise of video slots, most slot machines were mechanical in nature, operating with physical reels that spun when the player pulled the lever. “Mechanical slots” is a term still used to describe these old-fashioned machines, which have largely been replaced by video slots in many casinos. These machines were known for their simple, straightforward gameplay and mechanical components, and they remain a nostalgic favourite for traditionalists.
Skill-Based Machines
While not a blanket term for all slot machines, the term “skill-based machines” has come into play with the advent of newer slot games that incorporate elements of skill, rather than being purely based on luck.
These games require a certain level of player interaction and decision-making, such as aiming or pressing buttons at the right time, adding a layer of skill to the traditional slot format. As the industry continues to evolve, the distinction between traditional slots and skill-based games will likely become more pronounced.
Bonus Slots
This term refers to slot machines that offer bonus features or special rounds, such as free spins, multipliers, or interactive mini-games. Bonus slots have become extremely popular in recent years due to their added layers of excitement and potential for bigger payouts. The term “bonus slots” is used to highlight the games that offer more than just a basic slot experience.
Fruit Clusters
In some European regions, particularly in Scandinavia, slot machines are sometimes referred to as “fruit clusters.” This name refers to the grouping of fruit symbols that appear in certain slot games. This name might not be as widely known as “fruit machines” or “pokies,” but it’s another example of how names for slot machines can vary by region and preference.
