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34 W. Legal Hist. 131 (2024)
Technology in Gaming

handle is hein.journals/wlehist34 and id is 138 raw text is: Sara Partida TECHNOLOGY IN GAMING Introduction When the modern era of gaming began in Nevada in 1931 (after roughly two decades of being prohibited), the notion that every person would someday have a casino in their back pocket was inconceivable. Yet, less than 100 years after Nevada set itself on the path to be the gambling mecca of the U.S., that is a reality. As the technology sector innovates, the gaming industry has always seized on those opportunities and found new ways to entertain gamblers. New technology also comes with new risks that were not contemplated when gaming was first legalized in the various jurisdictions. This article explores some of the technological developments and regulatory responses in commercial gambling. It is not meant to be exhaustive but rather highlight some of the technology that shaped an industry that continues to reinvent itself. Evolution of Technology in Slot Machines Early Mechanical Machines The earliest devices used in gaming operations were a far cry from the high-tech machines in casinos today. If necessity is the mother of invention, the first slot machines certainly embody that mantra. In the 1880's, poker was extremely popular across the United States, particularly in poker-infatuated San Francisco.' The first slot machine, produced in 1891 by Sittman and Pitt, was a mechanical device consisting of springs, reels and a lever designed to allow individuals to play a mechanized version of the much loved game.2 Known as the one-armed bandit because of its pull down lever that started Sara Partida is an in-house gaming lawyer, specializing in data privacy and technology. Previously, Ms. Partida served as counsel at the Nevada Legislative Counsel Bureau, advising legislators and committees on healthcare, commerce, and energy issues. Throughout her career she also consulted on government affairs matters related to technology, energy, and gaming in the private sector, as well as advising several prominent health care associations. 1. Roll the Bones: The History of Gambling, Pr. 187. 2. https://www.delasport.com/history-of-slot-machines/. 131

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