Most people are attracted to slots because there is no skill involved in playing them, so you can never feel stupid for making the wrong decision. But that might be changing soon–the skill part, not the feeling stupid part. From the LV Sun:
Pong, the game that turned pinball wizards into video-game junkies in the ’70s, is poised to make a comeback in casinos.
This time, it could help turn the video-game generation on to slot machines.
Las Vegas-based Bally Technologies is seeking approval for a Pong slot machine where a player’s video skill would help determine the payout.
“Ever since we showed it a couple of years ago, there’s been a great deal of interest,” said David Schultz, director of video games for Bally, which has show n the game at trade shows.
Pong and the twist of a payout based on player s’ skills were debated last week by the state Gaming Control Board. The panel said slot machines must have an element of randomness in their base game but noted that Pong’s skill element comes into play only in the bonus round – something not covered by regulations. So, the three-member panel recommended approval and sent Pong to the Nevada Gaming Commission, which has to sign off on the concept before it could be played in a casino.
If the commission approves skill-based gaming , Schultz said, it could open the door to other skill-based games that could be popular with a new breed of casino gambler – Generation X’ers who grew up with video-game consoles in their laps.
But Pong is expected to be popular with Baby Boomers who make up the core demographic in most casinos and who will view the game with nostalgia.
Las Vegas SUN: Slot players might get new crack at an old video game
Skill-based slots might be the most important game development since wide area progressives, because they could revolutionize how people play. I think that most people who spend 4 hours a day playing video games are turned off to slots because they are so mindless. Adding skill elements, even if its just something as basic as hand-eye coordination, could make a difference.
In general, I see a bigger convergence between table games, including ones that require skill, and slots, and between slots and other media, including TV and video games.
Definite points for referencing Pinball Wizard in the opening there.