History of the first Egyptian assault rifles
Introduction
Egyptian themes have become classics of the slot genre thanks to a combination of the mystique of ancient pyramids, the cult images of the pharaohs and the promise to "unearth" virtual treasures. Its origins are in the first mechanical and electronic machines, where the design transferred players to the world of archaeological adventures.
1. First steps: mechanical machines with Egyptian symbols
Late 1970s
At the dawn of the industry in Las Vegas, simple mechanical one-armed bandits appeared with the symbols "anubis" and "pyramid." Their design was limited to five-figure drums and rough engravings, but even then the archaeological theme attracted attention as something exotic and mysterious.
Development in the 1980s
The appearance of the first microprocessor machines: more realistic images of gods, sarcophagi and hieroglyphs. Bonus functions were limited to additional mysterious spins on "scatters" in the form of Ra solar disks.
2. The rise of terrestrial video slots: IGT's "Cleopatra"
1999-2000
International Game Technology (IGT) unveiled the Cleopatra ™ slot with five reels and 20 paylines. The heroes - Queen Cleopatra and Anubis - acted as wilds and scatters, and the bonus round was 15 free spins with double the winnings.
The popularity of "Cleopatra" attracted elite casinos to the segment, and for a long time it was put in the center of the hall.
3. Book of Ra's online era and explosive success
2005
Novomatic launches Book of Ra ™ online. Key innovations:1. Pick-and-click bonus - the choice of pages of the mystical book gave an expanding symbol for freespins.
2. High volatility - the risk of big wins was in keeping with the spirit of adventure.
3. The atmosphere of the excavations - musical accompaniment and graphics were surrounded by ancient ruins.
Impact on industry
The resounding success of Book of Ra spawned hundreds of clones and gave impetus to the creation of series: Book of Dead, Legacy of Egypt, Book of Atem, etc. Egypt has become not just a topic, but a full-fledged line of story arches.
4. Colorful flash period and mobile adaptation
2010-2015
NetEnt, Play 'n GO and Microgaming have enriched the theme:- animated cutscenes of "tomb entrance" scenes;
- 3D models of pharaohs and gods;
- mobile versions with an adaptive interface for tablets and smartphones.
Book of… series
The paradigm of the "book" has moved to new slots: Book of Maya, Book of Dead, Book of Shadows - each with the author's expanding symbol mechanics.
5. Modern trends and preservation of classics
Megaways и Cluster Pays
The Egyptian theme combines an incomparable atmosphere with dynamics of up to 117,649 payment methods and cluster reactions.
VR/AR prototypes
Several studios are experimenting with 3D pyramid galleries and augmented reality "digs" right on the player's desk.
Nostalgic Rilod Releases
Operators bring back classic hits in a modern engine, preserving the visual and mechanics of the original.
Conclusion
From crude mechanical symbols to high-tech online hits, the Egyptian-themed path is the story of an image that blends archaeological curiosity and excitement. From IGT Cleopatra ™ to Book of Ra ™ and new Megaways releases, the theme remains an integral part of the "classics of the genre," having proven its ability to attract and retain players for decades.