A narrow depression, groove, notch, or opening for receiving or admitting something, such as a coin or letter. Also, a position or job that can be filled: The program received the slot on the broadcasting schedule.

A thin opening in which a card can be placed: He put his passport into the slot on the front desk.

The venerable slot machine is going through a generational shift. While older players are content to zone out in front of a machine that requires little more than cash and faith, younger generations are yearning for games that require more skill.

Game designers have been working to adapt to the new demands. In addition to adding video-based games, they have been developing branded slots based on popular movies, TV shows, and musicians. This has led to an increase in popularity among younger players.

As manufacturers strive to adapt to the new demand, they face other challenges. Casino managers are adamant about maximizing slot revenue, but they do not want to kill the golden goose by raising their house advantage too much. They fear that their players are able to detect hidden price increases and may choose another machine.

In an effort to keep their machines profitable, operators have started to include elements that promote more interactive gameplay. They have implemented features that pay players for their hand-eye coordination, and they are developing communal games to encourage social interaction between players. They are also experimenting with ways to give players more control over their winnings and losses.