The machine pays out according to the pattern of symbols displayed when the reels stop 'spinning'. Slot machines include one or more currency detectors that validate the form of payment, whether coin, banknote, voucher, or token. However, the mechanical operations of early machines have been superseded by random number generators, and most are now operated using buttons and touchscreens. Some modern slot machines still include a lever as a skeuomorphic design trait to trigger play. Ī slot machine's standard layout features a screen displaying three or more reels that 'spin' when the game is activated.

Slot machines are also known pejoratively as one-armed bandits, alluding to the large mechanical levers affixed to the sides of early mechanical machines, and to the games' ability to empty players' pockets and wallets as thieves would.

Row of digital-based slot machines inside a casino in Las VegasĪ slot machine, fruit machine ( British English), poker machine or pokies ( Australian English and New Zealand English) is a gambling machine that creates a game of chance for its customers. For other uses, see Fruit machine (disambiguation) and Pokey (disambiguation). For the album, see One-Armed Bandit (album). 'One-Armed Bandit', 'Slot Machine', 'Fruit machine', and 'Pokies' redirect here.

How slot machines are programmed