Slot machines have a certain charm that makes them one of the most attractive games in any casino, whether land-based or online, like Kasinohai. From its bright, flashing lights and loud, whirring sounds of the slot machine to the spinning wheels and the unique designs in each wheel, something about the machines that just call to players to sit down and pull the lever.
But why are we so hooked on the humble slot machine? This article will talk about some of these reasons and understand how this game captures the hearts and pockets of players.
Five reasons why slot machines are addicting:
- It’s designed to demand attention
- Free spins encourage more lever-pulling
- Lever control gives a sense of control
- Cognitive dissonance in gambling
- It helps kick in Dopamine
It’s Designed to Demand Attention
The flashing lights and the loud sounds found on slot machines are more than just for aesthetics. Slot machines are made to have as many bells and whistles as possible to draw the attention of gamblers. The more entertained a player is, the greater chance of the player staying on their seat and feeding coins on the machine.
Slot machine games keep the same look and feel that physical machines have to get them playing even for online casino platforms. And with the improvement in technology, some even incorporate cutting-edge animation through cutscenes and backgrounds to set the player’s mood.
Free Spins Encourage More Lever-pulling
Who doesn’t want free stuff, whether a free meal or a ticket to their favorite show? The notion of getting something free encourages a person to try something out and removes inhibitions regarding failing or losing out.
Online casino platforms take advantage of this by offering free spin bonuses for new or returning players. These free spins tease the player about trying out the slot machine offerings available, possibly even winning some credits in the process.
When players start enjoying the slot machine games, they’ll continue playing even after the free spins are used up. They’ll start using their casino credits to pull the lever and start rolling, hoping for another big win.
Lever Gives a Sense of Control
As humans, we want to have as much control as we can get in everything we do. While most casino games provide players with little agency regarding the outcome of their game, slot machines offer the opposite effect.
The lever that controls the slot machine gives the player a feeling that they can manipulate the outcome of the device. By either pulling faster or harder, they think it would give them better chances of winning. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that doing something to the lever would increase a player’s chance of winning.
Cognitive Dissonance in Gambling
Cognitive dissonance is the idea of having two conflicting beliefs regarding a particular topic. For example, even if a person knows that overeating sugary foods could worsen their health, they still choose to pick up an extra donut at the store.
This event happens a lot in gambling, more so in slot machines than in other games. While information online shows the estimated Return to Player (RTP) percentage, or the amount players can get per play, the allure of winning big still pushes gamblers to roll the dice. The big rewards that slot machines offer players seem too good to pass on.
It Helps Kick in Dopamine
Whenever we do something fun or exciting, our brain releases a neurotransmitter called Dopamine. Also known as the “feel-good hormone,” the release of this hormone gives us that “high” feeling we experience when eating something tasty or working out.
Casino games, particularly slot machines, are configured to encourage the release of Dopamine in players, resulting in a small wave of emotion with every spin. And when they hit that big prize, a more intense feeling of happiness crashes in, leaving the person in euphoria.
This leads to an association between slot machines and happy feelings. Slot machine developers bank on this and use this association to encourage continuous playing.
Slot machines play a key part in any casino setup; you can’t picture a land-based or online casino without at least one slot machine in sight. While it’s designed to be addicting, playing at the right amount is key to making the most out of the experience. Take advantage of free spins to try online slot machines, and decide if you want to play more after.
