What do you think of as a typical Vegas slot player?
The chances are, unless you've been to Vegas recently, the image you have in your mind, may be one that is trapped in time.
Ten years ago, if you had walked into a Vegas casino then you may have seen a floor packed with serious slot players. A mix of people from many different backgrounds, but all of them sitting motionless, transfixed by the reels in hope of hitting a big jackpot.
Back in those days, gambling really was just about the gambling. The main reason to play was to try to get rich easy, rather than being a fun and enjoyable pass-time. Back then, the thought of a slot machine as being a prime source of entertainment was, to be honest, laughable
However, things have changed
The new generation of players are different. They are used to living in a world that stimulates the senses at every turn. Videos, computer graphics, vibrant soundtracks and cartoon-style entertainment are among the things that a typical slot player wants to see.
However, that doesn't mean the slot floor is now the exclusive domain of young players. Indeed, far from it. Many of the more 'experienced' folk have also taken on the electronic lifestyle and enjoy all of the 'Bells and Whistles' that come with.
So what has changed?
Well, when you visit a casino these days, the first thing that may strike you is the intensity and the atmosphere created by the high-tech images and sounds on the slot floor. Games now feature arcade-style graphics, videos, interactive bonus rounds and a whole host of other previously unimaginable features
Try Lucky Larry's Lobstermania and join in the fun and games as he fishes for the delightfully delicious crustaceans. Go on the oil discovery trail with Texas Ted, in the ever-popular Texas Tea slot. Play slots based on popular board games, like Monopoly or Cluedo, or game show themed slots like Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy. The choice and variety of Vegas video slots seems almost endless.
Perhaps the most amazing thing to see is that people are playing for pure fun. Yes, you did read that right - they are playing for fun! You will see people laughing and joking with each other as they play the slot bonus feature rounds. Some will even be singing along to the theme tunes slot!
Having been entertained by the slots, a modern player could leave a playing session having spent $50 or so feeling completely satisfied that they have had some fun, been entertained and in no way feeling downbeat and dejected at having 'lost' on the slots. This is the big difference. Players are now seeking value in the form of entertainment.
This value concept is not exclusive to the Vegas Casino player, though, it has also hit the online slot world.
The prime example of this new focus on value would be the popularity of online slot tournaments. Online slot tournaments allow slot players to compete against real people, rather than against the casino. This means there is no 'house edge'. Plus, there is a social aspect to the tournament play that is completely new and adds to the enjoyment.