Progressive jackpots developed as a way to offer larger, more enticing prizes by linking multiple slot machines to a shared prize pool. Initially, progressive jackpots were limited to machines within a single casino, but advances in technology enabled the networking of machines across multiple casinos, increasing the potential jackpot size. These systems track a portion of each bet made on linked machines and contribute it to the jackpot, which continues to grow until a player wins. The concept has since expanded to include both land-based and online casinos, allowing for even larger jackpots and greater player appeal.