California Woman Wins $100,000 in 10 Minutes at Slot Machine

Sometimes it’s better to go old school when you’re trying to find your pot of gold.

That’s what happened to a woman at California's Pechanga Resort and Casino recently. She turned a $40 bet on the Bonus Times 3-reel-type slot machine into a $100,000 jackpot win after spending only 10 minutes — and a total of $200 — at the machine.

The woman, who hails from Diamond Bar, was identified only as “Nora Y" and was lucky enough to land the lucky combination of a red 7 and two 10 times pay symbols along the machine’s center line.

Pechanga Resorts' communications director, Ciara Green, told McClatchy News that Nora said she was excited about her big win but unsure of how she’d spend her winnings.

Reel Slot Machines Still Favored by Many Players

The Pechanga Resort is about a 90-minute drive from Los Angeles in Temecula. Its gaming space is nearly as big as four football fields and features a variety of slot machines and table games.

Ironically, the older, 3-reel-type slot machines remain a favorite among many of the casino’s patrons. The 3-reel slot machines are now often referred to as the “classic” slots.

Three-reel slot machines originated in traditional, physical casinos, where players used a lever to spin them. They were the first type of slots, and they started the entire slot gaming industry.

Unlike modern games with complex animation, these slots focus on pure gameplay. The reels are mechanical, and the symbols are limited and fixed.

Typically, there are three reels, and each reel has 10 symbols. These slots usually have one to 10 paylines that work vertically. Common symbols include fruits, bars and 7s.

Beginners like them because they're easy to play and don't require much concentration. Experienced players also enjoy them because, despite their simplicity, they’re still fun.

The machines remind players of vintage gambling contraptions from the early 1900s. Most of these games even have bonus rounds, which help players win more without spending extra, as Nora found out.

Technology Has Stronghold on Slot Machine Industry

As technology has improved, traditional slot machines have turned into video slots, swapping their mechanical reels for digital screens but keeping the same basic game. Over time, online casinos have taken over from classic slots because they are more convenient.

It’s an advantage for many because players no longer have to travel to a casino. They just need a computer, tablet, smartphone or laptop, along with a bank card and an internet connection, to play from anywhere.

What’s great is that technology did not leave the 3-reel slot machine behind. You can find them online by checking out the list of the best online casino apps or online slot machines with the best odds.

Good luck, and have fun.