American Idol Slots
American Idol has been called "the most impactful show in the history of television." Whether you believe that statement or not, you have to acknowledge that the singing competition has launched the careers of numerous performers and created a whole new genre of programming for U.S. audiences.
Given the show's impact on pop culture, it's only natural that others would seek to enter into licensing agreements with creator Simon Fuller. This was certainly the case with IGT, the world's leading manufacturer of slots, as they sought to capitalize on the popularity of the show and ride it for as long as possible.
This article details what you can expect from the American Idol slot, from bonus rounds to its availability on Facebook. In order to provide you with the full Idol experience, I've also included sections about past contestants and judges. Newcomers to the show should find this last part especially helpful.
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American Idol Slot from IGT
Before we begin, it should be noted that the American Idol slot machine is no longer widely available. It can still be found at various land-based locations, but it's not even featured among the several hundred games on IGT's official website.
The game was originally released in 2012, and it originally debuted through Facebook via IGT's Double Down virtual casino. It would later appear at land-based casinos, as well as virtual counterparts running IGT/Wagerworks software.
The real money version of the game featured a progressive jackpot and the ability to wager from one penny to $5 per payline. There were a total of five reels, as well as three distinct games featuring judges such as Randy Jackson and Jennifer Lopez. Each game cost 30 credits to cover all paylines, with 90 credits being needed to cover all available lines.
During the 11th season, for example, the game began with 24 contestants. As the show progressed and performers were eliminated, the game would be adjusted to reflect the new roster. This made the American Idol slot the first to be updated in conjunction with a live television show.
In addition to free spins, wilds, multipliers, and scatters, the slot also had several bonus features to shoot for. These were among the most exciting.
The remaining contestants are shown on the screen, and the player gets to present one of them with a golden ticket. Once this occurs, the hidden prize associated with that performer is revealed and presented to the player.
This feature allows players to pick multiple contestants, and each adds a multiplier that's applied during bonus spins. A prize is also revealed once the selections have been made.
The last bonus round offered by the game, it mimics the finals of American Idol. The player has the option of opening an envelope, revealing the winner of the show and awarding a cash prize in the process.
In addition to the features listed above, the land-based version of the game offered a community bonus that could be enjoyed by multiple players at the same time. In order to make sure that payouts were fair, the game provided a multiplier to each individual player based on their speed of play and average bet.
Most Successful American Idol Contestants
Longtime fans of the show probably know all the winners and losers by heart, but there are plenty of folks who couldn't tell the difference between Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard. In order to remedy any confusion, I proudly present this list of some of the best-selling artists to ever compete on American Idol.
Winner of the first season of American Idol, Clarkson has sold over 25 million albums worldwide and generated more than 98 number-one hits on the Billboard charts. She's won (at least) three Grammy Awards, 12 Billboard Music Awards, three MTV Video Music Awards, two Academy of Country Music Awards, and four American Music Awards. Clarkson has also tried her hand at acting, appearing on shows such as Nashville, Reba, and The Crazy Ones. Some of her biggest hits include "Miss Independent," "Since U Been Gone," and "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)."
While recent years have seen his sales figures drop, Studdard enjoyed a great amount of early success following his win on the second season of the show. In addition to recording, he's appeared on stage and screen in productions such as Heaven I Need a Hug and Ain't Misbehavin'. His biggest hits as a singer have included "Flying Without Wings," "Sorry 2004," and "Superstar."
The season three winner, often known simply as "Fantasia," has sold over three-million albums, performed on Broadway, been inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, and been dubbed "Baby Pattie LaBelle" by none other than Patti LaBelle. She's also been honored at the Billboard Music Awards, Grammy Awards, and NAACP Image Awards. Her biggest singles include "I Believe," "Bittersweet," and "When I See U."
This country artist captured the season 10 crown on American Idol, and he's since sold over two-million albums. He's released three albums as of this writing, and his most successful singles have included "I Love You This Big," "The Trouble with Girls," and "See You Tonight."
While recent efforts with his band Daughtry haven't been as successful, their debut album sold nearly five million copies. The rocker finished in fourth place on the fifth season of the show, but he's enjoyed much better album sales than winner Taylor Hicks. His band's biggest hits include "It's Not Over," "Over You," and "Home."
While she only finished in sixth place during the fifth season of the show, Pickler has gone on to sell nearly two-million albums. She also demonstrated her ballroom dancing skills in front of a nationwide audience, winning the 16th season of Dancing with the Stars with partner Derek Hough. Her most successful singles have included "Red High Heels," "Best Days of Your Life," and "Didn't You Know How Much I Loved You."
Winner of the seventh season of American Idol, Cook has enjoyed success with both major and independent record labels. His first major-label debut sold over one-million copies, and he had 11 songs debut on the Billboard Hot 100 the week after his Idol victory. His biggest singles include "The Time of My Life" and "Light On."
Despite finishing as a runner-up to Ruben Studdard in the second season of the show, Aiken has managed to carve out a diverse career for himself. He's sold over five-million albums, written a best-selling book, performed on Broadway, appeared on several television shows, ran for political office, and served a two-year term on the Presidential Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities. His biggest hits have included "This Is the Night," "The Way," and "Bridge Over Troubled Water."
Despite a seventh place finish during the show's third season, Hudson has managed to become one of the more recognizable American Idol contestants. She's sold over 1.5 million albums, received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, performed at Super Bowl XLIII, and taken on a number of film roles. Her portrayal of Effie White in Dreamgirls resulted in a number of awards, including an Oscar and Golden Globe. Her best-selling singles include "Spotlight" and "If This Isn't Love."
The undisputed queen of American Idol, Underwood has sold over 65 million records around the globe. She's shattered numerous records in the process, as well as winning (at least) seven Grammies, nine American Music Awards, 11 Academy of Country Music Awards, and 17 Billboard Music Awards. Her biggest hits include "Before He Cheats," "Jesus, Take the Wheel," "Blown Away," and "All-American Girl."
Judges on American Idol
The judges are a huge part of the American Idol experience, and they often provide contestants with much-needed support or send them home in tears. Since the slot machine version of the game features a number of these individuals, I though it only appropriate to include a brief summary of each.
Former L.A. Laker's cheerleader and 1980's pop icon. One of the three original judges, Abdul held the position from 2002 until 2010.
Music talent scout turned professional judge, Cowell was a fixture on the show from 2002 to 2011. Often rude to the contestants and disliked by large segments of the audience.
Bassist and record producer known for his work with artists like Mariah Carey. Served as one of the show's original judges from 2002 to 2014.
A producer and singer-songwriter, the sales of albums featuring her tunes have exceeded 160 million. Served as judge from 2009 to 2011.
Comedian, actress, and successful daytime talk show host. Served as a judge from 2010 to 2011.
Longtime lead singer for Aerosmith. Performed the duties of a judge from 2011 until 2013.
A multi-talented performer, J. Lo has sold over 60 million albums and starring in a string of well-received films. She's also been an author, fashion designer, and dancer. Served as a judge from 2011 to 2013, and then again from 2014 until the present.
Singer and actress with a five-octave vocal range. Worth an estimated $500 million, she has sold more than 63.5 million albums in the United States. Judge from 2013 to 2014.
Rapper and singer famous for songs such as "Anaconda," "Super Bass," and "Starships." Also known for her distinct voice and massive butt. Judge from 2013 to 2014.
Australian country music singer with over 15 number-one hits. Has been married to actress Nicole Kidman since 2006. Judge from 2013 until present.
Jazz singer known for singing American standards and original compositions. Has sold over 28 million albums. Has also acted in a number of films. Judge from 2014 until present.
American Idol Slot: A Summary
During its heyday, American Idol regularly attracted a TV audience of 20 to 30 million viewers. While the show's popularity has sagged in recent years, it remains a tremendously influential part of television history. The American Idol slot machine has also fallen on hard times as interest in the show wanes, but anyone lucky enough to locate it in a casino can still enjoy some vibrant gameplay and the opportunity for generous payouts.