Why Are Slots Called Pokies?

Though called slots in many international spots, down under, Australians share a unique bond with the term 'pokies'. So, why do Aussies stick to the word 'pokies' when talking about slots?

When Aussies venture across borders, they often bump into different terms for pokies. In the United States, they're known as 'slots', the British go with 'fruities', and in parts of Scotland, they're called 'puggies'. If you've heard the term 'one armed bandit', it's often in reference to these machines. online pokies .

What exactly are pokies, and what led Aussies to embrace this term over the more generic 'slots'?

The roots of this are buried in the history tied to the beloved gambling machines and their early days in both Australian and New Zealand shores, ensuring 'pokie' remains a beloved term in history of gambling in Australia today's modern gaming lexicon. online gambling in Australia !

History Of The Word Pokie

The nickname 'pokie' springs from 'poker machine', a label given to the first wave of automated gambling machines introduced in Australia back in the early 1900s.

The pioneering mechanical slot, the Liberty Bell, was crafted by American mechanic Charles Fey in 1895. Before long, these machines were shipped worldwide, finding new homes in both Australia and New Zealand.

Featuring three spinning reels, the Liberty Bell made it simple for players to grasp how to win on pokies the mechanics – players aimed to match three symbols across the midline. Similar to online poker forming a powerful poker hand, the more valuable the symbols lined up on a slot machine, the bigger the payout.

Interestingly, pokies didn't officially become legal in New South Wales, Australia, until 1956. Prior to this, they were illicitly played in various clubs and bars. Over the fifty years leading to legalization, these machines evolved - as time went on, electronic versions began appearing.

Only very recently has online casino With gambling's legal green light in Australia, a new era for pokies took flight. Modern-day players now enjoy games boasting stunning graphic design, rewarding bonus rounds, and a host of features unimaginable in pokies' humble beginnings.

Why is it Pokies Not Slots for Australians

While the exact reason behind Australians calling them 'poker machines' initially isn't entirely clear, the casual 'pokie' stuck around in no time.

One guess posits that since poker machines were illegal for a while, enthusiasts resorted to slang to discreetly discuss their playtime, akin to London's Cockney rhyming slang. This linguistic shift might have helped conceal activities from law enforcement.

As electronic slots started gaining popularity midway through the 20th century and gaming laws began to relax, the nickname endured, embedding itself in the culture long before official oversight arrived.

How To Play Online Pokies

Even today, pokies remain a mainstay in Australia, lining bars and clubs, yet with technology advancing, many Aussies have opted to spin pokies on the internet instead.

Online pokies greatly benefit from cutting-edge casino software, ensuring players a safer, more secure gaming environment, mirroring highstreet machines in function – choose a game, decide your bet, and spin away.

The standout difference, however, is in gameplay sophistication. Although both online and traditional pokies might offer similar 'Return to Player' (RTP) rates, those online stand out with their enriched play dynamics, captivating graphics, and bonus elements.

Additionally, online enthusiasts can hop between games and aim for colossal progressive jackpots not found in conventional pokies. Plus, you can snag casino bonus (such as a no deposit bonus ) to claim some free spins !

Read our reviews of online casinos some exceptional offers on popular pokies platforms, or discover mobile casino site for you.