Gambling in Las Vegas isn’t just about quantity. Sure, there are casinos as far as the eye can see, but that doesn’t mean you just run through the first door and start playing. This is especially true when it comes to slot machines.
Most people’s only contact with slots were online games. Sadly, this software is mostly copy-pasted, at least when mechanics are concerned. The only thing that’s different is the theme. So why should you settle for these lackluster titles? Well, you shouldn’t.
Visiting Sin City is a special occasion, and that calls for some rare and unique Las Vegas slot machines. This is the birthplace of slots, after all!
That’s why the HowToCasino team contacted a number of vintage gambling experts. With their advice, we came up with the easiest way to find rare slots and enjoy them the way you’re supposed to.
Do Your Own Research
No, it’s not possible to try out every single one. Vegas has been home to thousands of different game developers over the course of its history. And many of them came up with unique or experimental slot machines. It might not seem like much, but you’re going to have to make choices if it’s your first time embarking on this mission.
Whether it’s the Sigma Derby or the giant slot at the Golden Nugget Casino, there are many famous gems to try out. Look them up online, find out their location and mark your favorite ones. If you have time, you can always make a detour and try out some more.
Don’t Prioritize Winning
Slots machines were always random. Before, it was a reel of numbers that the machine selected from. Now, it’s an algorithm that randomly picks the outcome of each spin. Despite different technologies being involved, it’s all the same.
So just because you’re playing at an old-school or unique slot, that doesn’t mean you can strategize and hope for a win. Do you really think the casinos would allow for such a loophole to exist in their venues? Of course not.
The best way to approach this is to prepare a budget and focus on having fun. Keep the bets minimal, observe how the game works, and enjoy it. If you win something, you’ll have a cool story to tell your friends. If not, it doesn’t matter. You still tried a unique slot machine!
Have Coins on Hand
Rare and unique Las Vegas slot machines are mostly coin-operated. They’re old and it would take quite a lot of time and money to reprogram them to modern settings. And besides, the coin-driven mechanism is a large part of their charm.
So don’t be surprised if you can’t operate these slots the usual way. Ask an employee about which coins are accepted and head over to the cash cage to acquire them. If there’s a big crown, be sure to have someone save you a spot while you go get the coins. Always take a bit more than you need, just in case you spend them fast.
Ask Around
The internet may be the Fort Knox of information on rare and unique Las Vegas slot machines, but no one knows them better than seasoned gamblers do. There are many historians, experts, and pros around town. If you ask them, they’ll happily share some of their knowledge and recommend you some interesting slots.
Whilst not gamblers per se, concierges know the ins and outs of Vegas. This, of course, includes all the historic slot machines people might want to see. If you’re nice and willing to tip, you might get more than you initially hoped for.
Casino employees are also a great source. They’ll be eager to promote their business and let you in on all the unique slots you can play.
Read About the Games Themselves
We know we already mentioned that you shouldn’t expect to win, but this puzzle goes deeper. In the old days, game makers could create any sort of slot, and people would be willing to try it. Gamblers had next to no knowledge about whether they actually had a chance to win or not.
Nowadays, new slots are endlessly scrutinized by players and experts alike. Thus, you should do some extra digging about each slot machine you want to try. Some odds are glorified rip-offs, so be careful. At the end of the day, most of these slots are just gimmicks. If there’s no realistic chance to win, at least have a bit of fun.
