Slot Machine Button Sequence: Is There a Certain Combination to Win More?
A modern slot machine is a feast for the senses with incredible visuals, superior sounds, interactivity, and so much more. The games are the backbone of the gaming industry and players can also now get in on the action for real money or for free online as well. Some of those playing these games may even think there are certain things they can do to tip the odds in their favor, such as a certain way to press the button on this machine. But is this actually true? Can a certain slot machine button sequence help determine winning spins? Those who believe this are mistaken and this article takes a look at this subject in depth to answer these types of questions. Keep reading to learn all about slot machine button sequences and whether they make a difference when playing these games. Buttons on a Slot Machine For the uninitiated, a slot machine may look like a complex device. There are varying buttons – sometimes on the cabinet and sometimes simply on the screen. There are a few key buttons or icons on a game for a player to make note of including: Lines to bet – These can vary by machine, but players use these to select the number of paylines they want active during a spin. Many players simply play the maximum number of paylines. Wager button – This is what a player uses to select how much to wager per payline. Spin button – This is the button used to set the reels in motion. Slot machines originally used a lever to get the mechanical reels inside the machine spinning. Now machines aren’t simply mechanical, so this is no longer necessary. Cash-out – This button is used to retrieve a player’s funds from the machine. This is now usually a ticket voucher that can be redeemed for cash in the casino. Online platforms cash out a player by sending the funds back to his player bank. Free-to-play slot platforms send any virtual coins on the machine back to the player bank as well. Take your pick and enjoy our incredible slots below: Click here to dive into our wide array of free slots. The RNG at Work Some players have the mistaken belief that how they initiate the reels via the buttons on the cabinet or on-screen can determine the outcome of a slot spin. This can involve patterns of betting, numbers of active paylines, and even how hard to press the buttons. Some players actually believe that slapping the slot machine buttons affects how a machine pays out. Popular slot streamer Brian Christopher made note of this myth in an entry on his blog. “Slot machines do not have feelings,” he writes on the BCSlots website. “They don't care if you win or lose, whether you're sad, mad, angry or glad. If you caress the button softly, talk sweet nothings to it, or simply slap it silly – it will provide you with a random response: WIN or LOSE. So slapping it has zero effect on the machine, especially when the outcome has already been decided.” On modern slots, the random number generator (RNG) determines the result of a spin. This is a software application that runs constantly to determine a result randomly. The RNG runs through billions of numbers to register a slot result. Players can at least expect a fair betting experience (although there is still a hefty house edge). The simple fact is that a winning or losing result is based solely on the RNG and using a sequence of buttons on the machine has no bearing on how a machine will pay out. The House Edge When playing slots, players must realize that the casino has a major edge – as much as 20% on some games – and nothing a player does can overcome that. The RNG solely determines winning spins and players have a significant uphill climb to win – especially when it comes to scoring one of those jackpots reaching into the hundreds of thousands of dollars or millions of dollars. That doesn’t mean that players can’t win. Many players walk away with significant winnings each day all around the world. But it’s important to note that players face a significant house edge when playing these games. No button sequence, lucky charm, time of day, slot location, or sending the game your “positive energy” is going to change that. A slot pays out simply based on the high-tech, computer's inner workings. Strategies to Win While players can’t alter a game or change how the RNG pays out, there are some things to remember when playing to have a better chance of winning. Here’s a look at a few of those strategies. Take it slow – Making your bankroll last longer makes for a more enjoyable experience. Blowing through your cash isn’t fun and can cut a trip to the casino short – or leave a player spending more money than planned. Play within your budget – Only gamble money that you can afford to use and isn’t needed for other critical needs. This also goes for the stakes you play. Wagering more than you can afford can sap your bankroll and leave you without funds to play if a losing streak sets in. Learn the RTP – This stands for “return to player” and is the amount of money wagered in a slot that is returned to players. For example, a machine (or group of machines) may be set to pay back 92 cents out of every dollar back to players, a 92% RTP. The higher the RTP, the better chance for players to get some of their money back. Many slot and casino RTPs can be found online. Break things up – Sitting at a slot machine and just spinning and spinning may not always be a great idea. When playing slots and hitting a losing streak, go take a walk, grab a drink, take a nap, or do something else for a bit. Those slots aren’t going anywhere and you can live to fight another day – hopefully with more luck. Play for free – Some online slot platforms allow players to spin the reels without any real money involved. This can be a great way to play from anywhere, learn how slots work, and have some fun. Conclusion Some players believe that there are certain button sequences or movements that players can make to beat the slots and secure more consistent winnings. Like the notion of “hot” and “cold” slots, this is a myth. Players have very little to do with how a slot pays out, whether playing in a live casino or online. The random number generator (RNG) produces a random result, making for a fair game. Hitting certain buttons in certain ways has no bearing on winning and losing. A better plan to win is to play within your bankroll, not play stakes that you can’t afford, and get away from the games when you hit a losing streak. These ideas can also help players practice responsible gaming practices.
Progressive Slots vs Regular Slots: A Comprehensive Guide
With the online casino industry expanding with each passing day, there are more and more new players entering the fold who are learning the ins and outs of different types of slot games: progressive slots vs. regular slots. Below is a quick comparison of the key differences between these two slot types. For a more detailed exploration, continue reading the full article below. Aspect Progressive Slots Regular Slots Jackpot Type Continuously increasing, lottery-like feel Fixed jackpots RTP (Return to Player) Lower, typically around 85% Higher, sometimes reaching 98%-99% Payout Frequency Less frequent, but much larger More frequent, smaller payouts Player Risk Higher risk, higher reward Lower risk, more consistency Let’s start with regular slots. Understanding Regular Slots When you log onto an online casino, most slot games under the “Slots” category will be “regular slots.” These still have jackpots, but they’re conducted a bit differently than progressive slots. To understand more about regular slots, we need to learn more about the different types, how the jackpots work, and their advantages. Types of Regular Slots With “regular slots,” the two types you can expect to find are “classic slots” and “video slots.” Classic slots are just as they sound—they feature three to five reels and fewer pay lines. They are far simpler to understand and have limited features. You spin the wheel and hope to land one of the pay lines. Some popular titles in this category include Zeus II, Jungle Wild, Rainbow Riches, Cheshire Cat, and more. Video slots can feature more reels, more intricate pay lines, additional features like free plays, and typically enhanced graphics. All that being said, the differences are minor in the online sphere. Regular Slots and Fixed Jackpots While these might be “regular slots,” that doesn’t mean there aren’t jackpots. These slots will come with a fixed amount that never changes. For example, if a slot has a jackpot of 1000x, this will be the case regardless of your wager. So, if you wager $1 and hit it, you’ll win $1,000. If you wager $10 and win, you’ll get $10,000. Regular Slot Advantages Because of their static nature in terms of jackpots never changing and there being fixed pay lines, regular slots present a unique advantage: Consistency. While the wins may not be as “splashy” as those of other types of slots, the return to player percentage is consistent, and the wins occur more often. Depending on the game, these RTP% can range from 96% to 99%. Exploring Progressive Slots Now that we’ve covered regular slots in great detail let’s turn things over to progressive slots. Progressive slots are more volatile, but the potential winnings continuously scale, providing a “lottery-like” feeling for players chasing that big payout. Like regular slots, let’s learn about the different types of these, how jackpots work, and some things to remember. Different Types of Progressive Slots There are three types of progressive slots: standalone, in-house, and wide area. Standalone: With these slots, the jackpot isn’t linked to other games. Sometimes, a series of games share a progressive jackpot, so if it’s won any of those, the ticker resets. With standalone slots, it’s just you versus the slot in front of you for that big payday. In-House: As mentioned just above, there are some progressive jackpots linked to numerous games, and that’s what we’d consider “in-house” progressive slots. These can sometimes be within a series of games or a single developer. This can allow the jackpot to scale faster and offer more games with similar themes for you to enjoy. Wide Area: Wide area progressive slots build off of in-house slots and now stretch to potential other sites under the umbrella of a company. So, if a company owns multiple online casinos, there could be games that are linked together across all of the brands, so if someone wins the progressive jackpot at Casino A, players at both Casino A, Casino B, and Casino C will see that it’s been hit. Things to Consider While regular slots offer a more consistent payout structure, that’s not the case for progressive jackpot slots, as expected. There’s a trade-off with scaling jackpots: The overall return-to-player percentage isn’t as high. With these, return-to-player percentages can be in the mid-80 % range. Still, we can say that sometimes it’s easy to turn away from consistent wins for a chance at a massive payout that will be life-changing. Progressive Slots vs. Regular Slots Comparison As you’ve now learned, there are some stark differences between progressive and regular slots. We’ll compare them further by looking at the jackpot sizes, odds of winnings, experience, and variety/availability. Different Types of Jackpots You’ll see an ever-increasing jackpot with progressive slots, while regular slots are more fixed and stable. Progressive slots players will see the jackpot continue to go up, while regular slots may have a jackpot of 500x or 1000x, and it never changes. Odds of Winning When examining slot machines online, the key figure is the return to player percentage (RTP%). With RTP%, this illustrates how much money is paid back to the player over time and shows the house edge for each game. Regular slots have a higher RTP, sometimes reaching 98% or even 99%. The payouts are more consistent but not as “explosive.” Progressive slots have lower RTP%, sometimes as low as 85%, and provide less frequent payouts, but as mentioned, the jackpots can be massively life-changing. Overall Player Experience The player experience comes down to each player. Regular slots are likely better for someone who wants to gamble with limited risk and more so for entertainment purposes and a slow trickle of winnings. If you want to go for a home run and understand that there’s a real possibility it doesn’t happen, progressive jackpots are for you as the upside is tremendous, but overall, there are more “downs” than “ups.” Game Variety and Availability There will be more “regular slots” than “progressive slots.” For example, Jackpot Party offers 52 progressive jackpot slots compared to 100+ classic/video slots. As mentioned, though, there are various types of progressive jackpots, including standalone ones and ones that are linked between multiple games. So, not all progressive jackpot slots will have their exclusive jackpot. Take your pick and enjoy our incredible slots below: Click here to dive into our wide array of free slots. Progressive Slots vs. Regular Slots: Choosing The Right One For You You’ve learned a lot of information about these games, but there are some things to consider when deciding which to focus on. Of course, you’re not locked into any one type of game, and you can switch between them. Assess Your Risk Tolerance Everyone has their personal risk tolerance. If you don’t enjoy playing potentially dozens of rounds without any noticeable return, progressive jackpots may not be for you. That said, you can still lose with regular slots, but there may not be that inherent feeling that you need to go for the massive win, or it may feel like a letdown. Budget, Budget, Budget If you want to chase after a progressive jackpot, you must be prepared to wager a significant amount of money due to the likelihood of winning. We mentioned that RTP% can be as low as 85%, but that’s not for the top jackpot. That will be even lower and require a budget we couldn’t calculate. You could set a fixed budget for regular slots and easily stay within those means. We recommend setting aside money you’d be OK with losing and playing only with that. Long-Term Outlook With progressive jackpot slots, the only way to win the big jackpot is to wager the maximum amount over and over again continuously. With that, choose a game with a maximum wager you’re comfortable wagering numerous times. You could see incremental increases in your winning pool for regular slots while sticking to a committed budget. On top of risking $100, you could tell yourself to stop after winning a specific amount. Progressive Slots vs. Regular Slots: Additional Tips and Information Before exploring progressive and regular slots, you should consider some additional tips and information. Myths and Misconceptions We’ll start by saying slot machines are inherently random. There’s no way to navigate whether you’ll win or not. We cannot understate this enough—there’s no such thing as a “hot streak,” winning more at particular times, or something being “bound to happen” because a certain outcome has consistently happened. Slots are incredibly random, and there’s no rhyme or reason for your winning besides the game spinning and landing in a particular manner. Never chase your winnings because “you’re due” for a win after a losing streak. Responsible Gambling Responsible gambling is something we take seriously. If you or someone you know is struggling, please consult resources like 1-800-GAMBLER or 1800gambler.net to assist. Remember: Never wager more than you can afford. Go into online gambling, looking to chase losses. Treat it like going to the movies and spending $20. Allow yourself a specific amount budget-wise and stay disciplined. View this gameplay solely as entertainment. Maximize Enjoyment and Winnings Any time you hit a big win, it’s exhilarating. Even if that happens, remember to stay disciplined. We recommend continuing a pattern of choosing your favorite games, setting a budget, and playing through the entertainment lens. Be on the lookout for promotions and bonuses that can enhance your potential winnings, too. Progressive Slots vs. Regular Slots Conclusion To wrap up the debate over progressive and regular slots, it’s important to remember that you can play both. Each has its pros and cons, with regular slots being more consistent while progressive jackpots can offer massive, life-changing winnings. We recommend exploring both types of slots while remembering to stay within your budget and only wager through the lens of entertainment. We urge you never to chase your losses and utilize this guide to make informed decisions when gambling at progressive vs. regular slots moving forward.
11 May, 2024
A Comprehensive Guide to Must Hit By Slots
What if we told you there was a slot machine with a guaranteed jackpot payment that one lucky player would undoubtedly receive? These types of slots are known as “Must Hit By” slots or “Mystery Jackpot.” Must Hit By slots aren’t traditional but align more with progressive jackpot slots. When that cap is reached, it’s only a matter of time before that jackpot is won. Below, we’ll delve into all things related to Must Hit By slots, including their definition, how they work, pros and cons, strategies, and more. Understanding Must Hit By Slots Falling under the category of progressive jackpot slots Must Hit By slots differ because the jackpot amount changes after each win. Like the spinning of the wheel, the jackpot can change after each jackpot is won and will be displayed for players. So, as the jackpot increases with each play, you will know what the cap is. Often, as the Must Hit By mark approaches, players know it will hit soon, adding even more excitement to the playing experience. Further, these slots may not always have just one jackpot. Some slots often have a three-tiered system of jackpots, which could be the case with these. If that’s the case, they’ll all have their Must Hit By cap. The Simplified Mechanics of Must Hit By Slots To simplify, Must Hit By slots increase by a certain percentage, but unlike a standard progressive jackpot slot, these have a cap they’ll ultimately reach. Players can anticipate a win once the number is reached, whereas progressive slots can go on almost infinitely. These types of slots are available in both retail and online slot machines. They’ll all have a clear display on the screen with a Must Hit By marker. If that’s unclear on the screen, you’re likely playing a progressive jackpot slot instead of a Must Hit By one. How Must Hit By Slots Work RNG, or random number generator, is a key term and acronym when analyzing or examining slot machines. Essentially, slot machines are built so that it is impossible to identify which symbols will land where. Everything is completely random. Well, with Must Hit By slots, that’s also the case, but in addition to the wheel spinning, the jackpot amount is also completely random. For example, the jackpot amount in one game is $500, then $750 in the next game. Again, it’s completely random, so your best bet if you’re playing is to always aim for whatever jackpot is posted because it could change from jackpot to jackpot. This variability can create differing wins, but a jackpot is bound to be hit, especially once it reaches the new Must Hit By figure. While there is RNG, the meter that you’ll see displayed on the screen is there to build anticipation and make the playing experience that much more enticing. If you know, the Must Hit By number is $1,000. The meter slowly goes up from $789 to $791, eventually reaching the outskirts of $1,000, and you know that the jackpot number is coming soon. Players will rush to hit it. Players may also increase their wager amount in hopes of a bigger payout when this happens. Remember, the meter only continues to move as players play, so there is a sense of accomplishment here. Players, whether online or in person, are, without knowing it, really working together. They’re pooling resources to increase the meter. Advantages of Must Hit By Slots The pros and cons or advantages and disadvantages are somewhat subjective whenever you're discussing slots, as everyone enjoys these games differently. Here are some advantages to playing these types of slots: Overall Excitement: Seeing a visual cue—the meter—increases anticipation as players see it reaching that Must Hit By number. Better Overall Odds: Whereas progressive slots continue to rise when the jackpot number is reached with Must Hit By slots, you know it’s only a matter of time before it’s won. Social Environment: This doesn’t apply to an online setting, but at retail casinos, when that meter is getting closer to that Must Hit By number, this creates an opportunity for players to congregate with one another and experience that jackpot hit, creating memories of fun and excitement with friends. Variety of Players: Must Hit By slots are bound to attract all types of players. While the more traditional slot player may stay away from progressive slots due to the overall payout rate of their jackpot, Must Hit By slots show a cap on the jackpot, which creates some certainty. From there, it’s just a matter of who wins and who doesn’t. Take your pick and enjoy our incredible slots below: Click here to dive into our wide array of free slots. Disadvantages of Must Hit By Slots As with anything, there are advantages and disadvantages. As mentioned, though, these can be subjective. Below are some disadvantages of Must Hit By slots that some players may notice or see when playing these. Increased Bet Amounts: Because of the nature of Must Hit By slots and the fact that it’s only a matter of time before a jackpot is won, it’s not uncommon for casinos to make players up the ante a bit. This could cut your budget and allow for fewer rounds than other slots. Competition: While the social part of Must Hit By slots can create fond memories, there’s no denying that the competition level, especially as that meter hits its cap, is at an all-time high. It’s almost like the lottery. You may have so many people buy a ticket, but when it reaches $1 billion, everyone you know wants a ticket. That’s similar to what you can expect with Must Hit By slots as the cap is reached. Timing: If you see that the Must Hit By slot has a cap of $1,000 and it’s only at $120, it could take some time for it to be hit. Thus, the incentive to play is minimal at that time. Overspending: Going back to the budget, Must Hit By slots may allow you to rationalize with yourself and continue playing as the jackpot number is reached. We strongly recommend always sticking to a strict budget. There will be other opportunities. Strategies for Playing Must Hit By Slots As mentioned above, with the RNG element of slots and the Must Hit By amount, we cannot guarantee a win on these slots, but there are some strategies you can use to at least have a leg up on the competition. Monitor the Meter: If you see that the meter has a cap and the current number is way off, bide your time and wait a bit to dive in. Begin playing as the meter gets closer to the cap. Utilize Promotions and Bonuses: Take advantage of promotions and bonuses online. These could add bonus credits to your virtual wallet for additional play on Must Hit By slots. Fluctuate Wager Amount: Wagers must be placed to reach the cap. So, if you start playing when the meter is low, wager closer to the minimum amount and strategize your bankroll to increase the ante as the meter increases. Must Hit By Slots Mathematic Overview While there’s no simple formula for assessing Must Hit By slots, we can utilize probability and Expected Value to at least assist in gauging how to approach them. How to Use Math To Your Advantage Probability: Multiple factors must be considered when determining an overall probability with Must Hit By slots. These include the capped amount, the current number, and the rate at which bets are placed. In a retail setting, you can see the number of players playing, though that’s not the case online. It’s important to remember that the jackpot can be won at any time between getting to the capped number. Expected Value: With Expected Value, you’ll examine factors to determine an average outcome during a player’s experience. Again, there’s no clear-cut picture, but reviewing the size of the jackpot, the odds of winning, competition, and examining your losses does play a role. So you can begin to keep track. If the jackpot is $1,000, the minimum wager is $0.20, and the maximum wager is $1, you’ll likely contribute less the further off the meter is from the maximum number. However, as the meter gets closer to the number and you get closer to that $1 mark, you’ll need to assess the volume of wagers you’re placing and the competition. According to a study by Kevin A. Harrigan and Mike Dixon at the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada, the average slot round is about six seconds or ten spins per minute. Must Hit By Slots Player Experiences Thanks to YouTube, Reddit, and other social media, we learn more about the average player experience daily. Using these sources and more, we’ve found several testimonials regarding players’ experiences playing Must Hit By slots. We’ll include a few examples below. “A few weeks ago I was playing Volcanic Triple 7s which has three must-hit progressives. The grand was at $960 and was must hit by $100. It took me 3 spins to hit. Good times,” one user wrote on this YouTube video. “I eventually learned not to fall into that trap. I noticed that as I got closer to that must-hit amount, the number of hits to move that counter slowed greatly. I did get it once, but that was it,” someone else said in that video. “I like eagle bucks. I never hit big but always seem to get some hits. The others skunk me completely more often than not. Loved the video!” another user wrote. Must Hit By Slots In Las Vegas Las Vegas is the ultimate spot for retail casino play. There are more than 60 casinos in the city, and Must Hit By slots are scattered throughout them. Ainsworth develops the most notable Must Hit By Slots, with Ming Warrior being among the more popular ones. To be clear, there aren’t hundreds of these in each casino, but if you can find a jackpot slot developed by Ainsworth, chances are it’s a Must Hit By slot. Comparing Must Hit By Slots to Other Progressive Slots While Must Hit By slots fall in the progressive slots category, some key differences include jackpot size, payout structure, and player experience. Difference in Payouts Payout differences are vastly different when comparing these two types of slots. With Must Hit By slots, the jackpot is pre-determined. While it can be won before it reaches that threshold, a visual cue shows the maximum win, and it’s just a matter of time. Conversely, progressive slots continuously rise, and the payouts are lessened overall. Jackpot Sizes Piggybacking off of what was mentioned above, the jackpot sizes are always vastly different. With Must Hit By slots and progressives, the jackpots continuously raise and can be won anytime. However, Must Hit By slots have a cap, while progressives don’t. Therefore, the jackpot with progressives can climb for a fair amount. In contrast, the capped jackpot at Must Hit By slots will eventually be won. Player Experience With progressive slots, the player experience is heightened if you win a massive jackpot. Still, there’s always a sense of mystery, as players wonder when the jackpot will be hit. Sure, you might sacrifice an overall jackpot amount with Must Hit By slots. Still, you’ll know when the cap is being reached, creating excitement as a win is imminent. Exploring nuances between Must Hit By slots and progressive slots extends to understanding their winning probabilities and strategies. Below, we highlight key factors in a comparative table: Aspect Must Hit By Slots Progressive Slots Payout Structure Pre-determined jackpot with visual cue, Maximum win indicated, predictable timeframe Continuously rising jackpots, Payouts lessened overall, unpredictable jackpot Jackpot Size Cap on jackpot size, eventually won when cap reached No cap on jackpot size can climb indefinitely Player Experience Excitement as the cap is reached, the anticipation of win, Predictable win timeframe Heightened experience with a massive jackpot, Sense of mystery about when jackpot will be hit Winning Probability Fixed probability of winning before reaching cap, Higher probability of winning smaller amounts Probability changes as the jackpot increases, lower probability of winning larger amounts Strategy Players may strategize around nearing the cap Strategy often focused on timing of play and jackpot size Must Hit By Slots: Legal Considerations If you’re a casino player in the United States, online and retail casinos have strict guidelines for who can operate machines and online platforms. These include protocols such as ensuring that each game is random and cannot be tinkered with to provide players with less chance of winning. Additional laws, such as a minimum age requirement, and protections, such as regular casino audits, ensure these machines and others are functioning to the letter of the law. Of course, every area is different, so be aware of the standards in your area, whether in the United States or abroad. Must Hit By Slots: Technological Influence and Future Trends As technology continues to evolve, we’ll begin seeing more exciting features in Must Hit By slots. Right now, Must Hit By slots utilize RNG, are available in online settings, across multiple channels or even online platforms, and more. But what’s next for Must Hit By slots beyond what we have now? Industry Predictions Several predictions or things we could see in the future as technology evolves could impact the player experience of Must Hit By slots. “Live Dealer” Experience: Right now, there are live dealer games across online casinos for table games, but these could implement Must Hit By slots to get you in on the action and fuse the retail setting and online setting. You could see the competition online and in a retail setting. Virtual Reality: Based on that “live dealer” experience, we could see devices that allow you to be on the ground floor of the retail casino, but virtually. AI/Machine Learning: It’s a hot topic, but the advancement of artificial intelligence could have some interesting impacts on Must Hit By slots. It could assist in recognizing patterns for when these games are hit, which could combat RNG. Must Hit By Slots: Responsible Gaming Information We can discuss strategies and Must Hit By slots for an unlimited amount of time, but before all else, responsible gameplay is the most important thing to consider. We never want to see anyone suffer from gambling addiction, and as we said above, treat this entertainment. The thrill of a big win is there, but let’s face it—the house always has some edge. Still, that doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed. It’s all in moderation. Let’s discuss more tips below. Tips to Consider Manage Your Bankroll: This applies to every facet of casino play, but sticking to a strict budget will put you in a position where you’re having fun but not overspending and putting yourself in a position to chase losses. Treat This As Entertainment: We often spend $20 to see a movie or $50 to go to a concert. Treat Must Hit By slots the same way—allow yourself a comfortable spending limit and see what you can do with it. Be Prepared to Walk Away: Set yourself a losing limit along with a budget. If you budget $100 and set a losing limit of $50 and you reach it, don’t think twice—just get up and walk away. There are other Must Hit By jackpots to be won later. Must Hit By Slots Conclusion As with any time you approach playing slot machines, keep in mind that they’re random. We cannot stress this enough: There’s no way to determine when a win will happen. With Must Hit By slots, a visual shows the maximum jackpot. While that does signal a win is imminent, there’s no way to know if you or someone else will win. Before playing Must Hit By slots, refer to this page and deploy the strategies and information listed above to ensure you have the best possible experience. Must Hit By slots can be exciting, but as always, remember the rules of responsible gameplay. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, contact 1-800-GAMBLER.
11 May, 2024
A Comprehensive Guide: How Do Penny Slots Work?
While the name might sound underwhelming at first, penny slots are some of the most essential games on the casino floor as they offer players of all skill levels a chance at enjoying the games. With these being far more affordable than traditional slots, everyone from someone on their 18th or 21st birthday to a tried and true casino veteran can enjoy them. So, if you’ve ever wanted to make a splash for a small cost, penny slots could be for you. Discover how penny slot machines work, including strategies, how to play, paylines, and more. How Do Penny Slots Work? It’s important to understand that penny slots indicate the minimum wager amount for the slot, not that you’ll only insert pennies to play. To start playing, it’s like any other slot—insert your money, choose the number of paylines and how much you want to bet per line, spin, and see if you win. These slots allow you to spin, and some may offer several paylines, enticing themes, and bonus rounds like free spins. These bonus rounds are activated when specific symbols land in a specific sequence. How Penny Slots and Traditional Slots Differ These mechanics sound a lot like traditional slots and that’s because they’re all quite similar. The difference mainly comes from wagering requirements, paylines, overall payout amounts, and general player interest. For some, the low wagering requirements are enticing, whereas other players may want to risk big to win even bigger—both viewpoints are OK, but again, it all comes down to player preference. As for paylines, traditional slots may have fewer paylines and are more straightforward, whereas penny slots can have dozens of paylines. If you’re someone looking for massive payouts, traditional slots are probably more your speed. Penny slots still pay out a sizable amount, but again, the wager is only $0.01. Effective Tips and Tricks for Penny Slots Regarding slots, there’s no way to guarantee a win or use the best possible strategies as they are all random, but there are still some tips and tricks you can use when approaching these games. Look for High RTP: We’ll discuss RTP in more detail later on here, but essentially, RTP demonstrates how often games payout to players. Generally speaking, the higher the number, the better the payout odds. Start With Small Wagers: The smallest wager on penny slots is $0.01. We recommend betting the minimum per spin to build up your bankroll before upping the amount once you’ve padded your virtual wallet. Bet The Max On Progressive Jackpots: To complement the tip above, if you find yourself playing a progressive jackpot penny slot, we recommend maxing out your wager, as this will give you the maximum jackpot amount. Of course, only do so if your budget allows. Manage Bankroll: Go into a play session, set a budget, and stick to it. Never chase losses. If you, for example, have a limit of $100, bet the $100 and stop. Play Different Titles: By playing different games, you’ll explore not only different themes but you’ll potentially try out some new bonus features like free spins, multipliers, bonus rounds, and more. Take your pick and enjoy our incredible slots below: Click here to dive into our wide array of free slots. How to Play Penny Slots Playing penny slots is straightforward to accomplish, but we understand that from the perspective of someone more familiar with slots. If you have yet to play any, even penny slots, follow our step-by-step guide below. Choose A Game: Look around at the penny slots and see which stands out to you. Some qualities to look for could be the theme, graphics, bonus features, and more. Examine Wager Options: With penny slots, you can adjust the paylines. However, by doing so, the amount you’ll wager per payline will increase. Explore this to see what you’re comfortable with. Insert Your Funds: Once you’ve decided which game to play, place your funds in the machine or load up your account if online. Select Bet Amount: Use the screen to set your bet amount. Check Out Winning Combinations: In addition to the paylines, look at what the payline possibilities are and what the various symbols pay. Spin: Spin the reels and wait for the results. Enjoy Winnings: Whenever you spin the reel and win, enjoy it. After all, this is meant to be entertaining. Keep An Eye On Your Bankroll: Monitor your bankroll. Set a budget and stick to it. Cash Out: When your bankroll is complete, or you’re ready to call it quits before reaching the end, cash out. Online, the winnings are immediately added to your virtual wallet. Get started with penny slots: learn about paylines and RTP. Play today! Detailed guide: How to Play Penny Slots. Paylines in Penny Slots Paylines are arguably the most important aspect of playing penny slots. These are lines that go across the reels that determine whether you have a winning combination of symbols. Each penny slot has a different amount, and the more you wager generally unlocks, the more of them. It’s important to know that paylines are more than just symbols lining up in a straight line. Depending on the game, these predefined lines can be horizontal, vertical, zigzagged, diagonal, and more. Again, this all depends on the game. When you choose more paylines, you’ll also need to wager more. For example, if you have $0.01 and one payline and increase it to 10 paylines, the new minimum wager will likely be $0.10 as it’s $0.01 per payline. Since there can be dozens of paylines, it’s possible that when you spin, you’ll win on numerous paylines, which results in more money in your wallet. Payline Betting Strategies Utilize Multiple Paylines: This one is simple—the more paylines you activate, the more likely you’ll win. Balance Payline Selection: While adding more paylines increases your chances of winning, remember that just because that happens doesn’t guarantee a win. Balance the number of paylines you choose depending on your budget. Try Games With Different Patterns: Of course, all slot wins are random, but try your hand at different games with different payline combinations to see which works best for you. Types of Penny Slots: Free vs. Fixed When you play free and/or fixed penny slots, you’ll get a somewhat different experience. Below, we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of each. Fixed Penny Slots Advantages Fixed penny slots payout real cash. This includes small wins or hitting a big progressive jackpot. These games offer many features and bonuses, including free spins, bonus rounds, and more. It always feels good to win something, especially with money on the line. When you win at fixed penny slots, you may have a sense of accomplishment that is not felt with free versions. Disadvantages Just like you can win money with fixed penny slots, there’s, of course, a financial risk, too. Of course, this can be offset by setting a budget. Some penny slots could have a minimum bet amount per spin, which could change depending on the number of paylines you choose. You may feel a need to chase losses. Again, set a budget and stick to it. Free Penny Slots Advantages There’s no financial risk when you play free penny slots. Free penny slots allow you to try different games and themes free of cost to see what you enjoy most. With free games, you can also try out different features and paylines for games that offer them. Disadvantages If you’re playing for money, you won’t find it with free penny slots. Some features on free penny slots may not be available compared to their fixed counterparts. Overall, when it comes to fixed and free penny slots, one pays real cash and doesn’t. Before deciding which to play, understand what you want to get out of your playing experience. How Do Penny Slots Work: Return to Player (RTP) Explained RTP, Return to Player Percentage, is a metric used to measure the percentage of funds paid back to players over time when playing a game. For example, if a game has an RTP of 99, that means that, over time, $0.99 of every $1 wagered is paid back. Another way to interpret it is that the casino has a 1% house edge on that particular game. That said, this is a long-term metric across all players, so it’s not like if you play 100 times, you’ll win 99 of them. RTP Selection Guidance Research the slot you’re interested in to see if you can find the RTP. Online penny slots will provide this information, while retail slots won’t. Search for games with higher numbers. Read reviews of the game to learn about other player’s experiences. Consider progressive jackpot slots. These have varying RTP, but these also offer potentially massive payouts. Regardless of the RTP, we encourage you to track your wins and losses to see what your general experience is like. Progressive Jackpots in Penny Slots Progressive jackpots for penny slot games that continuously climb until they’re won. These can either be for single games or linked between multiple games. For these, you’ll need to wager the maximum amount to win the larger jackpot. To trigger these jackpots, you’ll need a specific combination of symbols. The excitement and anticipation these add to the playing experience cannot be understated. That said, the chances of winning a progressive jackpot are extremely slim. We don’t have an exact statistic because each progressive jackpot slot is different, but we’d recommend going into progressive jackpot slots, hoping for the best. Also, be aware that you’ll likely not win due to how infrequent they are. It’s possible to win—people do all the time—but it’s important to not overspend and chase the win. Like any other version of playing penny slots, set a budget and stick to it. Odds of Winning and Payouts We discussed RTP above and that can influence payouts over a long period of time to players, but understanding the odds of winning is important too. With penny slots, the spin of the reels operates using RNG, or Random Number Generator. This term is used to describe the complete randomness of playing. Not only is it random when playing, but each spin is independent of the other and not linked whatsoever to previous ones. You could, theoretically, win 10 jackpots in a row, though it’s extremely unlikely. As discussed above, the more paylines you add, the better the odds are of winning. For progressive jackpot slots, you’ll need to up your wager to the maximum amount to reap the benefits of the maximum wins. When exploring the payout structures, you should check out the overall paytable and the symbol values to better gauge what you’ll seek when playing. Penny slots also have bonus rounds, multipliers, free spins, and other features that can increase the winnings. Before playing any penny slot, we recommend you know the RTP and understand the bonus features and overall payout structure. Approach each spin through the lens of entertainment as opposed to money-making. This is the best way to practice responsible gambling and have fun while playing. Online vs. Live Penny Slots You can enjoy penny slots both online and from inside a retail casino. Each version of these games has its pros and cons, depending on your preferred play style. Let’s examine each medium below. Online Penny Slots Advantages Play penny slots on the go wherever you can access the internet. Since there’s no need for retail space, there are many options to choose from online. Play games no matter what time of day. Online casinos with penny slots offer bonuses and promotions to attract new players, potentially adding more funds to your virtual wallet. Play behind a username, providing privacy for who you actually are. Disadvantages If you’re a more social person, online games might not always be for you. Internet or data issues could slow down the experience. Live Penny Slots Advantages Interact with other players and friends. Playing penny slots in person at a retail casino allows you to embrace the sights and sounds of being in a casino and enjoy various amenities like food and drink. Payouts happen right away. Disadvantages You must travel to retail casinos. Seats for your favorite games could be taken up by another player. Casinos tend to get crowded and can be quite noisy. There could be fewer options for how to play compared to online penny slots. Playing penny slots both online and in person has its benefits, and going between the two can allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds. Still, this all comes down to the type of player you are. If you prefer more variety and keeping to yourself, online penny slots sound more up your alley. If you enjoy playing and hanging out with friends, consider going to a retail casino to play penny slots. Debunking Myths and Misconceptions As with anything gambling-related, there’s going to be myths and misunderstandings. Below, we’ll list some more common ones and refute them with evidence. Myth 1: Penny Slots Have Lowest Payouts While penny slots have the lowest wager requirements, you can still win plenty of money. There are numerous factors that impact that, such as RTP, paylines, jackpots, and what bonus features are available. Myth 2: Betting More on Penny Slots Per Spin Provides a Better Chance of Winning Not true. While increasing your wager amount and number of paylines can increase the ways in which you can win, these don’t actually improve your odds because of that. Each spin at a slot is completely random from one to the next, so there’s no mechanic you can perform to increase the chances. Myth 3: Penny Slots Target Inexperienced/Vulnerable Players No. This simply isn’t true. All slots, regardless of designation, are completely random. Sure, the low wager amount could encourage more casual players, but there’s nothing to suggest casinos are specifically targeting a certain demographic of players. We encourage players of all types to practice responsible gambling. Myth 4: Penny Slots Are Rigged In The Casino Favor As mentioned, all slots are random from spin to spin. Differing RTPs introduce a house edge, but all casino games have some form of a house edge. Winning is possible for everyone, and RTP is readily available for all players to look up and decide whether or not to play. How Do Penny Slots Work: Conclusion As you have learned, penny slots can be a great way for new players to be introduced to the world of slots. These games still offer enticing themes with bonus features such as free spins and multipliers. They can also offer progressive jackpots that can provide big wins. As with any gambling, though, responsible gaming is necessary. Taking action steps such as setting hard limits on yourself for your bankroll is the key to a balanced and fulfilling gameplay experience, and penny slots are no different whether online or in person. From here, you have the answer to “How do penny slots work?” You can take this guide with you whenever you’re prepared to play if you need a refresher on how these enjoyable casino games work.
11 May, 2024
How Much is a Slot Machine Worth?
In 2015, Morphy Auctions held an event from May 1 to 3, and a Caille Peerless 5-cent floor roulette slot machine went for $300,000, setting a world record for an auction sale. The first slot machines popped up in the 1890s, and while we think of them as machines that pay us money for landing the winning spins, we often don’t think about how much a slot machine is worth. This goes for antique ones like the Caille mentioned above and modern ones you see on the Vegas floor today. Here, we’ll explore these slot machines more, including their evolution, influencing factors on value, what the market looks like today, and more. Understanding Slot Machines: Antique vs. Modern Antique Slot Machines Antique slot machines were manufactured and produced at least 25 years ago, like other items. However, what defines an antique differs from state to state, and the ability to own one changes, too. For example, in New Hampshire, you can own a slot machine that’s 25 years old or older. In Kansas, you can only own machines manufactured before 1950. The value of antique slot machines can be elevated based on their historical significance and the story behind them. Modern Slot Machines If you were to look at an antique slot and a modern slot side-by-side, you’d be amazed at the evolution of this item/product. Modern slot machines typically have a completely digital interface that can sometimes be used with just a finger. These machines come equipped with integrated graphics, animations, sound effects, and other features meant to create an immersive experience. Additionally, these slots are completely crafted and programmed with RNG, meaning each spin is completely different. Modern slots also come with various features and themes, such as fairy tales or ancient civilizations. There are numerous paylines, and because of the digital nature of these, there can be some unique reel arrangements. These devices are made to be more immersive and digitally based as opposed to a spectacle of craftsmanship and the more straightforward antique slot machines. Historical Significance and Evolution When looking at the history of slots and their evolution, there are only the main “stages” of the process to examine through the well over 100-year history of the device/machine or, to some extent, product. These include the mechanical slots, electromechanical, and digital landscape. Mechanical Slots: The earliest slot machine that we can trace back to is the “Liberty Bell” invented by Charles Fey in the 1890s. This device was incredibly simple compared to today’s slots. This machine had three reels straight across with one payline. Electromechanical: The machine that we can point to as the staple of this slot machine revolution is “Money Honey” from Bally. These machines had things like motors and circuits added to allow for an automated payout. They all featured larger jackpots and the ability to wager more. Digital: During the 1980s and into the 1990s, a massive rush of more digital slots began. These slots sacrificed some unique craftsmanship for a more complex and intricate game, including features like scatters, wilds, free spins, and more. From here, we saw online casinos emerge in the late 1990s and become legal in New Jersey in 2013, further allowing for more innovation and mass production of titles via licenses. How Much is a Slot Machine Worth: Influencing Factors Determine the value of a slot machine, which changes from person to person, and really, day by day. Like any unique item like this, the value is ultimately contingent upon what someone is willing to pay. That said, we’ll examine what factors contribute to a slot machine’s value, including its age, rarity, original parts, and more. Slot Machine Age As with most items individuals want to purchase for a collection, the age rarity is vital. For age, not only does the number of years matter but also whether there’s any historical significance. Was it crafted in the late 19th or early 20th century? If so, these are highly sought after as they are the first iterations of the machine. Then, there were machines crafted a bit later in the mid-20th century. The market for these can often be driven by nostalgia and “retro-ness.” Seeing the vibrant colors and classic themes could evoke an emotional response from buyers. The only issue where age can be a factor is how damaged or tattered a device is. The chances of something that’s 100+ years old being damaged are quite high, so if it’s not, that’ll greatly improve the value. Going back to the Caille piece mentioned above, Dan Morphy, the owner of Morphy Auctions, had this to say about it: “It had everything going for it and was a connoisseur’s piece. Whenever an item comes up with such originality and such a beautiful patina, it draws the attention of the most serious of collectors.” The Slot Machine Rarity Of course, if you’re looking for a piece like Liberty Bells, it’s one of a kind and there are no others produced. However, for machines that aren’t the standards of their era, the number of devices crafted matters greatly. Those crafted over a short period and not many produced that also have age and good condition greatly matter. There can also be machines that iterated on features before others, and those can be of interest. For example, Fortune Coin was an extremely early iteration of a digital slot with numerous symbols and ways of winning. Original Parts and Condition It should go without saying, but if you have a device with all of its original parts, this will greatly impact the value to collectors. For most, they’ll even compromise on the operating ability of the slot if it means it’s equipped with all original parts. Collectors typically aim to conserve the authenticity and originality of the craftsmanship. Of course, the ideal scenario involves original parts and working order, but restored machines or new parts will reduce the value quite a bit. Before selling, the owner might think that the nicer it looks, the more appealing it’ll be, but as you saw with the quote from Morphy above, the patina (the rust) on the machine does add that value, especially if it’s organic rust that happens simply due to age. Top Examples of Valuable Antique Slot Machines We mentioned several examples already, but we’ll examine those a bit more. Caille Peerless 5 Cent Roulette Slot: Sold for $300k at auction Liberty Bell: The first modern slot machine. This was invented in the 1890s and was coin-operated. Following this, the inventor, Charles Fey, made a new machine, the 4-1-44, and this gave him the confidence to go forth and produce them full-time. He then produced the Card Bell before the turn of the century. Money Honey: Created by The Bally Manufacturing Co. in 1964, Money Honey was the first-ever electromechanical slot machine. Even though the reels were electric, the lever was still familiar to players. It could pay out as much as 500 coins. Fortune Coin: The first video slot, Fortune Coin, was developed in 1976 in Kearny Mesa, California. Take your pick and enjoy our incredible slots below: Click here to dive into our wide array of free slots. How Much is a Slot Machine Worth: The Modern Market Cost of New Slot Machines for Casinos When you enter a casino or any location with slot machines, you’ll look at machines ranging from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. These all differ based on the slot machine manufacturer and the complexity of the machine. Something else to consider regarding the cost of a slot machine is if any licensing is needed. Over the years, slots have been for Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, Monopoly, and more. There was a slot machine created by Sidney Mobell that featured 818 gemstones and valued between $18 million and $21 million. Of course, that’s not used on the casino floor, though. Mobell discusses that slot machine in this video: According to GamblingSites.com, the components to consider when examining the cost of a slot machine are the game software, embedded game board, VGA converter, and I/O evaluation board. Collector’s Market Like any collector’s market for antique and unique items, the marketplace for slot machines is incredibly diverse, as each collector has their interest. What drives this market is a genuine passion for casino gaming and perhaps even residents of the Las Vegas, Nevada area. For some, it could be those that grew up around the first iterations of the more modern machines in the 1980s and 1990s, the Bally-like slots from the 1960s, and more. To some collectors, these could be viewed as investments, as holding them in a safe location free of any potential damage may only increase their value as time goes by. Of course, for collectors, learning the local market is important, including the legal ramifications, which we’ll discuss below. Online Slot Machines Online slot machines are used at online casinos. Further, only a few states have legal online casino play. You cannot purchase an online slot for individuals not associated with an online casino. Of course, could develop one yourself, but these would be illegal to play and profit from until they’re licensed and regulated by a legal online casino state. Starting an online casino includes licensing fees, partnerships, and providing games to the site. It’s a multi-million dollar operation. According to Juego Studios, an online slot can cost between $20k and $50k to develop. From there, there are additional costs like testing and marketing. They lay it out as such: Concept: $2,000 to $4,000 Design: $30,000 to $50,000 Development and Testing: $30,000 to $50,000 Marketing: $10,000 to $100,000 Legal and Practical Considerations of Slot Machines Legal Restrictions to Own a Slot Machine There are different laws in each state as it pertains to owning a slot machine. Below, we’ll list each state and what the current law is. The information below is sourced directly from Gameroom Show. State Legal Status Alabama Class II machines legal Alaska All machines legal Arizona All machines legal Arkansas All machines legal California Machines 25 years or older legal Colorado Machines before 1984 legal Connecticut All machines prohibited Delaware Machines 25 years or older legal Washington, D.C. Machines before 1952 legal Florida Machines 20 years or older legal Georgia Machines before 1950 legal Hawaii All machines prohibited Idaho Machines before 1950 legal Illinois Machines 25 years or older legal Indiana Machines 40 years or older legal Iowa Machines 25 years or older legal Kansas Machines before 1950 legal Kentucky All machines legal Louisiana Machines 25 years or older legal Maine All machines legal Maryland Machines 25 years or older legal Massachusetts Machines 30 years or older legal Michigan Machines 25 years or older legal Minnesota All machines legal Mississippi Machines 25 years or older legal Missouri Machines 30 years or older legal Montana Machines 25 years or older legal Nebraska All machines prohibited Nevada All machines legal New Hampshire Machines 25 years or older legal New Jersey Machines before 1941 legal New Mexico Machines 25 years or older legal New York (state) Machines 30 years or older legal North Carolina Machines 25 years or older legal North Dakota Machines 25 years or older legal Ohio All machines legal Oklahoma Machines 25 years or older legal Oregon Machines 25 years or older legal Pennsylvania Machines 25 years or older legal Rhode Island All machines legal South Carolina All machines prohibited South Dakota Machines before 1941 legal Tennessee All machines prohibited Texas All machines legal Utah All machines legal Vermont Machines before 1954 legal Virginia All machines legal Washington Machines 25 years or older legal West Virginia All machines legal Wisconsin Machines 25 years or older legal Wyoming Machines 25 years or older legal Restoration and Maintenance While resorting to a slot machine and fixing parts may seem like the right thing to do to improve the overall aesthetic and “newness,” this will often damage the value. As mentioned above, collectors generally want slots to be as original and authentic as possible as that’s the key factor guiding their interest in the particular device. So, if you possess a slot machine that you’re interested in selling, believe it or not, it might be worth more to have some broken original parts than resorted and new parts. Buying Tips If you’re looking to get into the marketplace to purchase a slot machine, it’s important to first identify what your motive is. Is there a particular piece you want? Do you want to collect? Is having all of the original parts important, or do you prefer a completely resorted item with new parts? From there, you can start to finalize your buying process. That said, there are some general things to examine during the buying process. Authenticity: Before purchasing any slot, verify that it’s a real, authentic slot machine. This includes the manufacturer’s logo, serial numbers, and more. For value, we recommend only purchasing pieces that haven’t been restored. Condition: The more intact a piece is, the better. Check for signs of wear and tear, damage, and corroding. Documentation: Examine and secure all documentation present with the piece. This helps further enhance the value and authenticity. Functionality: Having a working slot, especially for older ones, greatly enhances the value. However, there are situations where slots, even if they’re not in working order, still have great value. Legal Issues: Verify your state’s laws for owning a slot machine. How Much is a Slot Machine Worth: Future Trends and Market Predictions Emerging Trends Cryptocurrency: As time progresses, we’re seeing cryptocurrency used more and more, and that’s also the case for online casino play. However, most cryptocurrency isn’t allowed to be used at online casinos in the United States. Blockchain Technology: This is the technology behind cryptocurrency. Some developers are exploring ways to implement that into the online gaming industry. These offer things like security, transparency, and decentralization. Responsible Gaming Initiatives: As time passes, the concept of responsible gaming is becoming increasingly widespread. These include online casinos implementing tools such as self-exclusionary periods and limits on deposits, spending, and time. Social Gaming: Social casinos are also coming to the forefront. These allow players to play for fun or via a “sweepstakes” model while signing up with their social media accounts. Licensed Slots: More than ever, we’re finding online slots branded by hit TV shows, sports teams, and leagues. Predictions for the Market It may seem unfathomable to imagine the future of slot machines at this point, but there are numerous directions the industry could take. Augmented/Virtual Reality: This technology could allow players to be more immersed than ever and be the next evolution of live dealer games. Blockchain Gaming: This could allow for a more secure platform that offers players tokenized assets that can be exchanged for cryptocurrency. AI: Artificial Intelligence could be used to enhance algorithms and better understand the play patterns of players. It could also assist with responsible gaming and creating promotions that suit the needs and desires of the player base. More Widespread Legalization: Online sports betting is legal in over two dozen states, while legal online casino play remains in the single digits. As time goes on, we can expect this number to increase. How Much is a Slot Machine Worth: Conclusion Understanding the slot machine market can be valuable for collectors and allows them to have more of an appreciation for the devices they play at retail casinos and the development costs for their favorite online slots. Like any collector's item, though, a slot's value depends on numerous factors, including what you’re interested in, the condition, authenticity, and more. Even if you don’t plan on collecting slot machines, we hope you take away information such as the evolution of slots, important pieces in the device's history, and legal ownership restrictions, and have the question of “How much is a slot machine worth?” answered.
6 May, 2024
What Triggers a Jackpot on a Slot Machine? Myths and Realities
While many slot players may think luck, time of day, and other notions may have something to do with scoring big on a slot machine, the truth is that jackpots are typically triggered by a combination of a game’s Random Number Generators (RNG) and specific game mechanics. Most players would love to hit a massive jackpot and would also love to have a bit of control in making that happen. Seeing one of those six-, seven-, or eight-figure jackpots could be life-changing and bring up visions of new homes, cars, fancy clothes, fine cuisine, and expensive vacations. Those fantasies are part of the fun that comes with playing slots. However, there’s not a lot players can do to make one of those extremely long-odds paydays head their way. The truth is that modern slots’ RNGs determine the results of a spin at random and there is not much you can do to overcome that – not using lucky charms, not playing at a certain time of day, not rubbing a part of the game cabinet for good luck, not looking for “hot” machines, and not trying to find just the “right” machine. Chasing that jackpot can still be fun, however. Keep reading to learn more about what triggers a jackpot on today’s modern slots. The Role of Random Number Generators (RNG) In the old days, before high-tech computer technology was involved in slot machine play, the result of a spin was determined by the mechanical reels and inner workings of the machine itself. The age of computers changed that. Today’s slots make use of intricate software and technology that keeps all outcomes as close to random as possible by today’s technological standards. Even when a player isn’t on a machine, the RNG is still working, running millions of possible outcomes. Simply put, the RNG is the brains of the slot’s operations to produce random results. How exactly does this work? Inside the slot machine is a microprocessor similar to the one in your home computer. Instead of running Word or Excel, it runs a special program, the RNG, that generates numbers to correspond to the symbols on the reel of the slot machine”, LiveAbout.com notes. "You might say that the RNG is in perpetual motion. As long as the machine has power, it is constantly selecting random numbers every millisecond. The RNG generates a value between 0 and 4 billion (approximately), which is then translated into a specific set of numbers to correspond to the symbols on the reels. The outcome of each spin is determined by the number selected by the RNG. This number is chosen when you hit the spin button or deposit a coin.” The RNG ensures a game’s fairness and unpredictability. Players don’t have to be worried about a game being rigged or trying to “time” a machine that might be “ready” to pay out. And while there isn’t any way to make sure you win a jackpot, players can manage their bankrolls and select games that are at least more likely to deliver winning sessions. Knowing how the outcomes are determined on a slot should ease reservations about how machines pay out and make the playing experience more enjoyable. Different Ways Jackpots are Triggered Jackpots can be found in various ways and most players would be pleased to see any of them show up. How a game pays out a jackpot varies by the gameplay and other features. Here are three of the main ways that jackpots show up: Specific symbol alignments – This is the most common way to be awarded a jackpot. Finding certain symbol combinations can award varying payouts. Finding the most rare symbol combinations can trigger the largest jackpot payouts. On Cirque Du Soleil Amaluna, revealing 11 or more Amaluna jackpot scatter symbols can register some of the progressive payouts. Random triggers on any spin – Some games also feature completely random jackpot payouts. These can be of various sizes and may be handed out when a certain symbol appears on the reels or when a player accomplishes a certain accomplishment. For example, on Dancing Drums Prosperity, finding the Red Envelope bonus can randomly bring players a nice jackpot of up to 3,888 credits. Bonus games or minigames – These have become some of the most popular features in today’s slot games. From bonus wheels to pick’em games to free spins, players love these extras that bring some different dynamics to the traditional slot gameplay. Some of these bonus games can also lead to jackpots as well. For example, in Epic Monopoly II, players who find three or more scatter symbols will trigger the bonus wheel feature. When making that spin, players can win several prizes, including a jackpot worth 500x the wager. Most games now offer multiple ways to win some of that big money. Progressive vs. Fixed Jackpots Most slots offer players two different types of jackpots: Progressive jackpots – The progressive jackpot pool continues to grow as more players drop money in the machines. These can pay out millions of dollars and most usually feature smaller payouts that can still be large, but not the biggest jackpots. Fixed jackpots – Other games not featuring progressive payouts may feature predetermined payouts that pay out when finding certain combinations on the machine. There can be several tiers of these payouts and they often include fixed dollar amounts or predetermined multipliers that base the fixed jackpot on the number of credits a player has wagered. Choosing which type of game depends on a player’s own choices as well as the player’s bankroll. Here’s a quick comparison between progressive and fixed jackpots to help you easily distinguish the key features of each type: Jackpot Type Description Payout Best For Progressive Jackpots The jackpot pool grows with every player's wager across multiple machines, potentially reaching millions. Can pay out millions, but also includes smaller payouts. Players seeking large, life-changing wins. Fixed Jackpots These offer predetermined payouts based on certain combinations or multipliers. The payouts are fixed regardless of player wagers. Predetermined payout amounts are often tied to wager size. Players prefer consistent, predictable win Key Factors Influencing Jackpot Wins While players can’t make a jackpot just happen, there are a few things to keep in mind that may at least give you a better chance to hit one of these bigger payouts, including: Return to Player (RTP) – This is the percentage of money wagering in a casino or grouping of slot machines (such as penny slots or high-limit slots) that a casino pays back out to players. For example, a property or slot machine paying out 91 cents of every dollar wagered has an RTP of 91%. Slot volatility (also known as variance) – Volatility is associated with the risk-to-reward factors of playing slots. A game with high volatility pays out less often but rewards higher payouts when the game does register a payout. A low-volatility game may reward payouts more often while also rewarding in smaller amounts because of that. When it comes to this first concept, games with a higher RTP offer players a better chance of winning a jackpot because the casino or slot is paying more money back out to players. A good RTP for live casinos can be 90% or more, while online casinos may see these percentages rise as high as 98-99%. Additionally, here’s a look at how slot volatility affects the slot experience. High volatility Low volatility Payout and jackpot frequency Less frequent More regular payouts Amount paid out High payouts, including potential progressive jackpots. Mostly lower Stakes Higher limits generally Generally lower Bankroll Larger bankroll because often higher stakes Lower bankrolls because payouts are regular Take your pick and enjoy our incredible slots below: Click here to dive into our wide array of free slots. Debunking Slot Machine Myths Through the years, slot players have embraced some interesting beliefs about their favorite games and how they affect winning. Most of these are myths. Here’s a quick look at a few of them: Slots can be “hot “ and “cold.” Casinos control payouts and rig games against players. Some times of day or week are better for winning. Certain machines are “ready” to pay out. Playing the “max” allows more chances to win. All of these notions are false. Payouts are solely based on the game’s RNG – whether playing in a live casino or online. Casinos don’t manipulate games to work against players, they just merely configure an overall RTP. Disavowing some of these slot machine myths will help players understand some key aspects of winnings at slots. Suggestions for Optimizing Jackpot Slots Play While players can’t directly affect which symbols show up, there are some strategies to keep in mind to hopefully book some winning sessions over the long hall, including: Play within your bankroll, and don’t feel you have to bet higher limits. Take your time – making your money last longer can be beneficial. Set a budget and stick to it – avoid visiting the ATMs. Take breaks, especially if you experience a losing session. Play free online slots to learn how to play or simply to have some fun without spending a dime. Take some practical steps when targeting jackpots and also stay within certain limits, making sure your gambling budget doesn’t explode in the first hour. Maintaining Realistic Expectations and Responsible Gaming Thinking you’re going to walk into a casino and score a massive progressive jackpot isn’t realistic. But having some hopes of a winning session isn’t out of the realm of possibility, even though casinos have a hefty house edge. Short-term wins are indeed possible as long as players are willing to get up and cash out with some profits. Here are a few ideas to remember when it comes to realistic expectations and responsible gambling: Don’t wager money that is needed for other bills or necessities. Don’t chase losses. Accept small wins. Looking for massive jackpots can come with considerable losses. Recognize if you have a problem with staying in control and seek help if needed. Understand that the casinos do indeed have an advantage, and overcoming that can come with some long odds. Conclusion Winning a jackpot attracts many players to slot machines. Whether a major progressive payout or a fixed jackpot, these can pay out significant sums—sometimes even life-changing amounts. But casinos have a high house edge, and winning those massive jackpot sums is extremely rare. Playing smart and making considerations for RTP, volatility, bankroll management, and responsible gaming practices are critical in enjoying these games and having a shot at the jackpot.
15 April, 2024