Basics of a Slot Machine The slot machine has undergone many changes over the years. Invented by Charles Fey in 1895, it started out as a simple mechanical game with ask me bet drums that revealed fruit symbols. By the 1950s, slot machines evolved to feature better mechanics and higher-quality fruit icons. However, they were still mechanical at this point. The 1970s brought about the biggest change and ushered in a new era of gaming that remains today. Video slots, which rely on computer technology, are currently the games of choice for many gamblers. A video slot gives developers many options in terms of reels, graphics, and features. Slots providers have used this technology to greatly advance modern games.