Video poker is derivation from the slot machine and poker game. A history of poker is in the works, but is not documented. Even the source of the name poker, has not been agreed upon. There are those they say it comes from the French – poque, while others believe its from the German – pochspiel. There are even those who suggest it actually comes from the Hindu –pukka. The earliest known mention of the game dates back to 1834. this took place when Jonathan Green made an observation of the game's progress upon one of the Mississippi River riverboats.

The coin operated gambling machine also has a developed history. It dates back to the 1800's, on the US's east coast. These types of machines were found in cigar stores and saloons in San Francisco. The first machines were known as drop machines. They utilized fifty cards on five drums. Most often, the Jack of hearts and ten of spades were eliminated. While this doesn’t seem fair, many players themselves were using fake coins to play.

Quaint customs surrounded the history of poker machines. These are known to be quite colorful. For example, it was common practice for a royal flush to pay in cigars or drinks.

During this time one of the most well known Liberty Bell slot machines was owned by Charles Fey. He was popular through out the industry for his three wheel 1899 machine. This was simply a sign of things to come in the future.

Fey was also the owner and producer of the 6-Way paying teller. This he made in Market Street factory. It contained five rows of drop cards. However, the earthquake and fires of 1906 destroyed all but one of the machines – which Fey himself saved. Patrons of Fey's grandson Reno Nevada Liberty Belle Saloon can view the original.

It wasn’t long until mechanical poker machines fell out of use. In the 1960's the electronic age produced the solid state 21 machine. This was made by Nevada Electronics. Within ten years other companies had jumped on the wagon to produce roulette, horse racing and poker machines.

1975 saw the building of a video bell slot machine by Fortune Coin Company. Though the casinos were slow to accept it, it ended up as a draw poker machine. This, on the other hand, was highly successful.

William Si Redd also became a leading industry figure. His company included Nutting Enterprises. Nutting Enterprises were the producers of Black Jack and Draw poker video consoles. Later on Redd changes his company's name to International Game Technology. This company continues to be a major producer and leader in the industry. Thanks to the introduction of the video chip in the 1970s, the development of the video poker machines could take place. These machines continue to be a central and stable element in any casino.