Slots Odyssey: Unveiling Slot Machine History
Walk into almost any casino and you’ll quickly notice that slot machines are the most popular gambling options on the property. Many major casinos offer thousands of these high-tech computerized games for players to choose from. This wasn’t always the case, and slots are a fairly recent phenomenon when it comes to the history of casino games. Some games, such as roulette and blackjack, trace their roots back centuries. But slot machines were created in the United States less than 200 years ago. Keep reading to learn the complete history of slot machines. 1 – Forerunners to Slot Machines A uniquely American invention, one slot machine forerunner came out of Brooklyn, New York. A firm named Sittman and Pitt of Brooklyn patented a gambling machine in 1891 that featured five drums showing 50 playing card faces. This machine was based on poker and gained a degree of popularity with bars around the Big Apple hosting the games. Players dropped a nickel in the machines and pulled a lever. Like a traditional slot machine, the reels and the player hoped for a nice poker hand. However, unlike modern slots, there was no direct payout from the machine itself. Winning players might earn a free beer for a big pair and higher hands might even pay out more, such as a box of cigars for a royal flush. However, what a player could win was completely up to the bar that hosted the game. Even during those times, there was always a house edge because there were only 50 cards. The 10♠ and J♥ were removed, making it more difficult to make bigger hands. The poker-based play and results proved to be the downfall of the Sittman and Pitt machine. Because of so many possible winning combinations, there was no feasible way to make a machine that featured automatic payouts. As a result, players often had to rely on bartenders or establishment owners to distribute their winnings manually, which led to inefficiencies and inconsistencies in payouts. The sheer popularity of coin-based entertainment also proved to be popular during this time. Vending machines dispensing holy water, invented by mathematician and engineer Hero of Alexandria, dated back to 1 A.D. in Roman Egypt. A person visiting a temple could insert a coin and the machine would dispense a certain amount of the purifying liquid, making sure that the water would last longer for more Romans. By the 17th Century, vending machines were found throughout the UK. These machines offered players a chance to win tobacco and snuff. The popularity of vending machines would continue in the coming years, eventually offering cigarettes, sodas, snacks, and other items for sale after dropping some coins (and eventually paper currency) into a machine. In the 1890s and 1900s, penny arcades became popular entertainment options as well. As the name implies, players could see short movie-like clips, have their fortune read, play non-electrical pinball, and other options. They also eventually included early slot machines, which were often referred to as fruit machines at the time. Penny arcades enjoyed tremendous success and popped up in nearly every town, small and large, across the United States,” AmericanAntiquities.com notes. “The most successful and profitable game was the fruit machine, or as we call it today, the one-armed bandit, which at one time or another was once banned almost everywhere. As penny arcades became more popular, slot machines quickly joined the coin-operated entertainment. Decades later, they are still extremely popular. 2 – The First Slot Machines Eventually, someone would work to perfect a machine that featured coin play, spinning reels with symbols, and automatic payouts. In 1887, San Francisco’s Charles Fey became the man to make all that happen. The German immigrant created the Liberty Bell, the first real slot machine, which he mass-produced and featured three vertical reels. The term “slot machine” also came into the lexicon because of his invention. Players inserted a nickel into a “slot” on the machine to initiate the reels. Just 29 years old, the mechanic built a machine that would eventually dominate the gaming industry. Liberty Bells were the first machines to offer automatic payouts, rewarding winners with a nice jackpot in nickels. Certain combinations could also reward players with free cigars or drinks. This was a bit of a precursor to today’s “comp” system found in most casinos. Those original machines featured three reels and symbols: fruit bells playing card symbols horseshoes stars Many of these symbols can still be seen on today’s slots as well, more than a century later. Fey manufactured the games in his machine shop and installed the games in bars, saloons, and gambling halls around San Francisco. He reached 50/50 revenue-splitting deals with the property owners. Those early games included some masterful engineering and craftsmanship and would eventually go on to revolutionize the gaming industry. They also became extremely popular and could be found all across the city. State officials began to take notice, apparently, and led to some changes in gaming laws. Little could slow down San Francisco’s growing slot industry, not even the catastrophic 1906 earthquake until a 1909 law made slots unambiguously illegal,” author David Schwartz notes in his book Roll the Bones: The History of Gambling. “By then, city authorities had gotten nearly $200,000 each year in taxes on the city’s 3,200 slots. Despite that, slots continued to flourish in a “gray area” with the fruit on the machines representing gum flavors. However, winners could still receive cash payouts. A bit of “creativity” could also help, as the country still retained a bit of the “wild west” mentality. A friendly payoff to the local police or judge almost always guaranteed that the slot rite operator could place machines in public places with little fear of official interference,” Schwartz adds. “Cheating, theft, and hijacking by criminal gangs were the biggest obstacles operators faced. Mechanical improvements eventually made cheating and theft less of a concern, and many operators began providing a cut of the profits as “protection” to avoid potential hijackings. Despite the popularity of his machines, however, Fey still had limited production capabilities in his machine shop and couldn’t meet demand. Despite his slots’ success, he couldn’t expand beyond California. That’s where Chicago’s Stephen Harper Mills stepped in. In 1907 his Mills Novelty Company began manufacturing his machines. These games featured additional fruit symbols and also featured black bar icons that are even still seen today. These “Bell-Fruit-Gum machines” initially awarded winners with chewing gum as a way to get around restrictions on some of the recent bans on gambling. However, savvy bar owners would often simply pay winners in cash. Those gum payouts are believed to be a unique part of slot machine history. Many experts believe the symbol was actually originally a piece of chewing gum from the Mills Novelty Company. But when those gum payouts went away, the logo was changed into the bar logo still seen on some modern slots. Slot machines continued to flourish up to 1910 and Mills helped locate them in locations around the country. However, the burgeoning industry faced some headwinds. Government officials sought to regulate and in some cases outright ban, slot machines and other forms of casino gaming as well. Despite those efforts, gamblers continued to embrace slots – whether legal or not. 3 – Expansion and Growth By the 1950s, Nevada was the only state in the U.S. offering legal casino gaming. A slot player might have to travel to Las Vegas to play some of their favorite games. These years saw considerable growth in the city, which had only 44,600 residents but more than eight million visitors each year. In 1954, the city saw gamblers dropping $200 million into Sin City casinos. In the 1950s, gamblers could head to properties like the Silver Slipper, the Desert Inn, Binion’s Horseshoe, the Sands, Golden Nugget, the Showboat, Riviera, and others. Slot machines became a bigger and bigger part of the Vegas casino business and this period also saw some major advancement in the games. Some of those that came in the 1950s and ‘60s included: multi-game payouts four-reel machines Multiple paylines electromechanical games The early multi-game payout machines were a bit different than what slot players see today. In essence, three games were attached together. A gambler would insert a coin in each machine and be capable of winning on each machine individually or when three bars showed up on the paylines in any of the three machines. Because of their size, the slots were often referred to as “monsters” or ”Frankensteins” and ultimately weren’t very popular. These games eventually faded away, but at least served as a precursor to other multi-payout games that would come on the market later and prove to be much more popular with players. Adding more reels and paylines offered casino goers more entertainment value and more ways to win. Mechanical reels were also being replaced by electromechanical games. Bally Manufacturing started the trend in 1963 with the first fully electromechanical slot machine. That original game was called Money Honey and brought about a major transformation in slot production. Like Henry Ford’s Model T, this three-reel electromechanical slot machine broke new ground, forever changing the landscape of the gaming industry,” the company notes on its website. “The two innovations that the game brought to the casino industry were its reliable electronically controlled construction and the incorporation of a ‘bottomless’ motor-driven payout hopper capable of automatic payouts of up to 500 coins without the use of an attendant. For the next 12 years, Money Honey in its many variations would become the flagship game of Bally Manufacturing’s slot machine division. Honey Money became such a hit that other slot machine manufacturers began debuting their own electronic games. This also meant that the lever traditionally used to spin mechanical reels became more of a symbolic device than a real part of setting those reels in motion. But the electromagnetic reels sped up the action, added excitement, and also created a more random game. Multiple coin games were also introduced and grew in popularity throughout the ‘60s and ‘70s. Players could score even bigger wins (and potentially losses) by wagering more coins. Progressive jackpots were also added during this period and both of these features remain key parts of slot machines still today. Choose and have a blast with our captivating slots featured below: Click here to explore all of our free slots. 4 – Growing Popularity in the 21st Century As manufacturers continued to innovate, slots became even more popular – eventually leading to the high-tech games players find today. The first video slot hit the market in 1963 with the debut of a game called Automatic Blackjack. While that game wasn’t technically a slot, the technology was also included in slot machines as well. The games weren’t particularly popular but the video poker version attracted plenty of attention in the ‘70s and ‘80s. That would help lead to more video slots in the coming year and they eventually gained a foothold and took up more and more casino space. The first progressive jackpot slot also debuted in Nevada. IGT’s wide-area progressives combined the instant gratification of slots with the life-changing jackpots of lotteries – a heady combination unimaginable when the first slots were crafted,” Schwartz writed in Roll the Bones. By the 1990s video slots were taking over more of the industry and the first multi-screen game in 1996. Players began seeing the use of more technology that Charles Fey probably could have never imagined. More games featured higher-quality video, sound systems, touch screens, card readers to track player reward card points, and more. Random number generators were also introduced to make sure each spin of the reels was guaranteed a completely random event. The 2000s saw coin-operated machines fade away as machines began allowing players to easily insert paper currency instead. Machines could also pay out in casino vouchers instead of slot tokens, which could also be used to insert into other machines. The multimedia aspects of slots really ramped up beginning in the 2000s. High-definition screens and sound became more prevalent as did various screen sizes and types. Slot developers began experimenting with skill-based games as well to try and appeal to younger players more used to playing video games than slots. More themes began being used as well to appeal to a wide range of players – from pop culture to mythology to narrative stories and more. The last few decades were a real period of growth for the industry and slot machines became by far the most popular form of casino gaming. 5 – The Rise of Online Slots With the growth of the Internet in the 1990s, some companies envisioned players being able to play slots and other casino games right from their own computers. InterCasino became the first online casino when it launched in 1994. More quickly followed, allowing players around the world to play slots without heading to a brick-and-mortar casino. These games certainly didn’t have all the bells and whistles seen in today’s games. They featured basic design and gameplay, but showed the possibilities of playing online. The games began to grow in features and possibilities in the coming years. When mobile gaming grew in popularity throughout the 2010s, more operators began ramping up online slot offerings for players to check out. Users could actually play for real money right on their mobile phones or tablet devices. Social gaming sites offering slot play for free, such as Jackpot Party, also became much more popular. Players can check out some entertaining slots right on their phones without spending a dime of their own money. Some enjoy playing these games more than actually visiting a real casino and playing for real money. 6 – Conclusion As technology continues to advance, slot manufacturers continue advancing their own games as well. Slots have come a long way from those early games of Charles Fey and Mills Novelty Company. Players now find modern technological games with seemingly something for every interest and bankroll. The entire industry reached a total value of $8.5 billion in 2021 and is expected to climb to $20.1 billion by 2028, according to a report by Branded Essence Research. There seems to be no slowing the popularity of slot machines, both in a live casino and online. Players simply love those spinning reels, lights, sound, and the chance to win some big bucks.
7 Crazy Slot Machine Controversies
Most players heading to a casino are just looking for a few hours of fun. Perhaps a win will come their way, perhaps not. Some time at a favorite slot machine can be a nice way to relax, spend some time with friends, and get away from the daily grind. Occasionally some slot play may also come with some controversy, from a missed jackpot to some creative cheating to slot machines in video games that just might appeal to kids. When money and possible winnings are involved, it’s not unlikely that some interesting scenarios and crazy situations may develop when spinning some slot machine reels. Keep reading to learn more about some of the gambling world’s crazy slot machine controversies. 1 – Master Manipulator Many slot players dream of finding a nice stroke of luck and seeing a sizable jackpot show up on their favorite game. Tommy Glenn Carmichael skipped the luck part of that equation and found other ways to make that happen – he cheated. Carmichael not only stole from casino slot machines for two decades through the ‘80s and ‘90s but also invented some of the devices that other cheats would go on to utilize for years. These could be used to trick a machine into paying out slot tokens. His “monkey's paw” featured a wire inserted through the machine's payout chute. This would trip the game’s microswitch and trigger a jackpot. Later, Carmichael moved on to a “light wand,” which could “blind” the machine's sensor and produce a winning “spin.” Carmichael was collecting thousands of dollars a day, but his luck ran out in 2001. The FBI arrested Carmichael and he later served almost a year in prison, received three years probation, and was also banned from entering a casino. Even after serving time in prison and despite advances in slot technology, Carmichael was confident about his skills at ripping off casinos. He told the Los Angeles Times in 2003: “Give me a slot machine and I’ll beat it.” 2 – Tough Time for a Slot YouTuber When not playing slot machines themselves, apparently many gamblers simply enjoy watching others play. Showing some slot play, and hopefully, some winnings in the process has become quite a cottage industry for some. A quick search on YouTube will yield numerous videos of casino players testing their luck. None of those are bigger than Brian Christopher. Among his social media channels, the slot sensation has more than one million followers and his slot video generates hundreds of thousands of views. The channel has become his full-time job involving working 10-12 hours a day and employing a small team to help produce his channel. The enterprise looked to be in jeopardy just a few years ago. In June of 2018, however, he received a series of emails outlining how his channel violated the site’s terms of service. According to Forbes, one email even said his channel violated rules for featuring “violent or dangerous acts that have an inherent risk of serious physical harm or death.” His account was ultimately suspended and hundreds of videos were seemingly gone. His platform – and his means of earning a living – disappeared overnight. Just two years into the venture, it suddenly looked like it might be “show over” for the Brian Christopher Slots channel. Other slot channels reported similar suspensions. “It was like a stab in the back,” Christopher told Forbes. “I devoted my entire life to YouTube. I gave them 1,100 videos and made them a lot of money. For them to turn around and shut me down with zero explanation hurts.” Christopher appealed the ruling but quickly received a denial. Despite that, his channels returned shortly afterward. YouTube contacted him and noted that after a review, company officials determined the content didn’t violate company guidelines. Other slot platforms also returned as well. This may not have been like hitting a seven-figure jackpot, but had to be quite a sigh of relief. Christopher’s platform has only grown since then and he now even has a deal for his slot section at The Plaza in Las Vegas, where fans check out some of his favorite games. 3 – Slot Jackpot Goes Missing in Action No one likes when the rug gets pulled out from under them – or a jackpot. But the case of slot machine errors accidentally triggering jackpots is nothing new. These scenarios seem to make headlines every few years, leaving these would-be jackpot winners a bit miffed and thinking “If only …” That was the case in 2016 for Katrina Bookman of Queens, New York. The single mother of four seemed to have hit the jackpot of a lifetime at the Resorts World Casino in New York City. The machine showed Bookman winning an astronomical amount, noting on the screen: “Printing cash ticket. $42,949,672.76.” This would have been a record-setting jackpot if only the unfortunate slot player had been able to cash in. That, however, didn’t happen. Casino officials informed Bookman the following day that the message was the result of a game malfunction. That assertion was confirmed by the New York State Gaming Commission, noting that the Sphinx Wild machine she’d been playing only had a maximum payout of $6,500. Adding insult to injury, the commission also ruled Bookman really should have won only $2.25. Instead of an eight-figure payday, the property awarded Bookman the two bucks and offered her a steak dinner. Bookman wasn't in the mood for a nice filet mignon. “You offer me a steak dinner?” Bookman told the New York Daily News. “I feel like they did me real dirty.” 4 – An Inside Job Sometimes the lure of seeing those winnings hit a slot machine bank proves to be just too alluring even for those meant to ensure a fair game. This presents a bit of a black eye for gaming regulators, but that was the case for Ron Harris in the 1990s. As a software engineer for the Nevada Gaming Control Board, Harris designed programs to help prevent cheating. But the promise of riches must have proven too much for the gaming official and he eventually hatched a plan to score some jackpots of his own. “Harris surreptitiously coded a hidden software switch – tripped by inserting coins in a predetermined sequence – that would trigger cash jackpots,” CNN noted. “After retooling more than 30 machines, Harris and accomplices made the rounds, walking away with hundreds of thousands of dollars.” The setup must have seemed like a foolproof plan. Varying people cashed in on the slots at different times. Harris wasn’t even present when the wins played out. But apparently, he might not have chosen the best cohorts for his plans. After being arrested for rigging a keno game in Atlantic City, one of his partners squealed and in 1998 Harris received seven years in prison. This deep-inside job may have paid off in the short term but ultimately sent this slot programmer to the slammer for quite a while. This situation is anything but a jackpot. Handpick and experience our incredible slots below: Click here to explore all of our free slots. 5 – Video Game Gambling There’s been quite a debate in recent years about the ethics of slot machines being featured in video games that might be played by minors. Most believe gambling should be relegated to adults, but some argue that games may be geared toward an older audience but still feature gaming. Some of these players may still be minors and that can present a problem. The game Fallout 76 sparked controversy after its release in 2018 for these types of concerns. The game features a post-apocalyptic world where they must survive in the ruins of West Virginia. However, one aspect of the game drew plenty of criticism. “One of the game’s features is a set of slot machines located in various locations, where players can spend in-game currency to try their luck and win various prizes,” hymotion.com notes. “However, this seemingly innocuous feature has sparked outrage among players and gambling addiction experts alike, leading to calls for its removal and warnings about the danger of introducing gambling mechanics into video games.” Since the currency within the game could also be purchased for real money, some argued that these were functioning more like real slots with minors able to legally gamble on the video game. The debate may be a lesson learned for many in the video game industry – and marketing of gambling toward minors probably isn’t a good idea. 6 – Slot Theme Second Thoughts Most players are accustomed to seeing icons as part of the slot machine, from rock bands and TV shows to cartoons and movies. Modern slots try to reach players through all sorts of themes and elements including history, mythology, culture, and much more. Pop culture has become an even bigger part of those efforts in recent years. But two decades ago, these efforts quite viewed how they are today – a bit of nostalgia geared toward adults who may remember some of these songs and TV shows. As slot manufacturers began moving in this direction in the 1990s, however, not everyone was on board with the direction these gaming companies were going. Senator John McCain, head of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology, said in 1999 that the committee would investigate the issue. He also asked the Federal Trade Commission to assist in investigating the issue. “Gambling industry executives say the new machines are intended to appeal not to children but to nostalgic adults,” the New York Times reported. “And in any case, they add, children are not allowed to use slot machines. But in Nevada, slot machines are allowed at airports, supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants, and critics say that children can be exposed to them there, as well as when they walk through casinos with adults. In addition, a Supreme Court decision earlier this year lifted a ban against gambling advertisements on television.” Critics argued that using images that might appeal to children was similar to the cigarette industry’s Joe Camel. The Nevada Gaming Control Board even created regulations to bar slot themes based on material “'primarily”' meant for children. The board even rejected slots based on the South Park cartoon series and Spider-Man. With some limits in place, the slot industry now appears to have threaded the needle – offering nostalgic and pop culture games while working to prevent children from gaming. Slot players can find a theme and game for just about every taste and interest. 7 – Lottery or Slot Machine? The Iowa Lottery ruffled some players in 2006 by placing thousands of “Touchplay” machines all across the state. The machines featured a touchscreen that made them appear like slot machines and were located in gas stations, restaurants, and bars. Many critics argued that the machines were too similar to slot machines and the numbers of them around the state made it look like Iowa had seen a great expansion of gaming. “A furor erupted in the Iowa Legislature’s 2006 session after the Iowa Lottery installed 6,700 TouchPlay machines in convenience stores, restaurants, taverns, and other outlets statewide,” the Des Moines Register noted. “Many Iowans bitterly complained they couldn’t buy a loaf of bread or a gallon of gasoline without being exposed to casino-style gambling, and legislators responded by yanking every machine throughout the state in an unprecedented move.” The issue no doubt cost the lottery quite a bit in cash and reputation. Some have argued that the incident even kept the agency from looking into alternative technological sales techniques for years to come.
30 May, 2023
Complete List of the Types of Slot Machines
Today’s slot machines have numerous types of games to choose from regardless of a player’s preferred stakes, theme, or features. There is something for everyone and slot manufacturers offer players numerous types of slots with differing gameplay and options. Knowing about these different types of slots can help a player better plan out what to play on that next trip to the casino or when playing a slot online. When playing slot machines, the goal is to make that bankroll last as long as possible and know which games make your cash last longer might be worth knowing. Also, knowing which games complement your own gaming interests and style will also make your gaming experience more entertaining. Keep reading for a complete guide to the different types of slot machines available to players. 1 – Single Coin Slot As the name implies, these machines allow players to wager only a single credit on each spin of the reels. With the casino industry now embracing video technology and the ability to play multiple credits, these types of games are obsolete. Players may find some of these games at a casino offering a vintage slot experience. Pros: Bankroll lasts longer because of limited credits per spin. Cons: Smaller payouts, fewer options. Extras: These games offer a more vintage slot machine experience. Read the full guide on the Single Coin Slot machine. 2 – Multi-coin/Multi-line These types of games have been around for about two decades and have only become more advanced in recent years. These games put slot players in control over how many paylines or stakes (coins/credits per line) they’d like to wager. The paylines you play, the more chances you have to win. Playing a higher number of coins per line also means higher payouts for wins. These are the usual types of games a player finds in modern games and the use of computer technology makes these options much more prevalent. Pros: Numerous stakes and payline options. Cons: Players may be tempted to play higher stakes, bankroll could be sapped faster. Extras: Some games have numerous paylines, meaning even one cent per line can add up. 3 – Multi-line These are older machines that were the precursors to multi-coin/multi-line slots. These games allowed players to select multiple paylines, but were limited in stakes. Players could only select one coin per line when spinning the reels. The games have since been passed over in popularity for the ability of players to select more than one coin per line. Pros: Ability to play multiple paylines but with limited stakes, bankroll can last longer. Cons: Players may want higher stakes, and smaller payouts than what multi-coin/multi-line games might offer. Extras: Multiple paylines were created as a way to offer slot players more action per spin. Read the full guide on Multi-line slot machine. 4 – Buy-a-Pays These types of machines base the number of winning combinations possible on the number of coins or credits played. For each additional credit, a player unlocks more winning possibilities. A machine’s payback percentage may be quite a bit lower because of one less coin put in the machine. Check the pay table to determine if you’re at a Buy-a-Pay game. Pros: Players choose the number of coins to play. Cons: Missed winning opportunities because not playing more coins can frustrate players. May drain bankroll faster seeking more payout options. Extras: Some bonus features may not be available if not playing the maximum number of coins. Read the full guide on Buy-a-Pays slot machine. 5 – Hidden Buy-a-Pays This is a version of the Buy-a-Pay style of machine, but these machines require players to wager the maximum number of coins to achieve some of the bonus events available in the game. This can be frustrating for some players because of the cost that can be involved with playing max coins, but this also can unlock much higher payout percentages. Pros: Higher payouts, more bonus options available. Cons: May cost more per spin and sap a player’s bankroll more quickly. Playing these games can be a more frustrating experience. Extras: Some games may offer much higher RTP (return to player) percentages when playing max coins – as high as the upper 90s and even 100%. 6 – Straight Multiplier Unlike the Buy-a-Pay machines, these games unlock all bonuses and game features with a single coin. A player can also double the payout possibilities or a second coin and triple those opportunities with a third coin. There is no major change on the paytable, a player simply risks more per spin with the opportunity to win even more when a winning combination lands on the reels. Pros: Players decide the number of coins they want to risk and can see more winnings per playing. Cons: No additional bonus opportunities for playing max coins per spin. Extras: Double Diamond machines offer a popular straight multiplier game. 7 – Bonus Multipliers These games are very similar to straight multiplier games but come with a bonus up top on the pay table for players wagering the maximum number of credits per spin. These jackpot payouts are rare, however, and the other payout levels do not see a similar bump in pay. Pros: A chance for a bonus payout, which could be considerably higher than other amounts on the paytable. Cons: Takes more coins per line to achieve just qualifying for the bonus, which can drain a bankroll more quickly. Extras: Because the bonus payout is so rare, most slot experts suggest skipping the max payout and playing at lower levels. 8 – Progressives Progressive jackpots are games in which players at least have a chance to win massive jackpots as often seen in news headlines. These machines take a small amount out of each spin of the reels and that money is placed in the jackpot prize pool. The prize pool can be drawn from games across a large area, such as entire U.S. states, making the prize pool even larger. Progressive payouts can reach into the millions of dollars, but other nice amounts can also be awarded. Pros: Huge payouts that can be life-changing are possible, but extremely rare. Cons: Players may have to play the maximum stakes and need a larger bankroll. These games also feature higher stakes as well. Extras: The largest progressive jackpot in history came at the Excalibur in Las Vegas in 2003 for $39.7 million. Delve into the world of progressive slots with our article on how to play. Discover strategies and tips for a better shot at those big jackpots. 9 – Combination Slots As the name implies, these games combine elements of other slots all in one game. It is often recommended to wager the minimum amount to unlock all bonus features. Looking at the paytable offers some insight into which features are available and whether the game skews more toward other slot types, such as Buy-a-Pay or Multipliers. Pros: Several options all in one game, sometimes the best of a few types. Cons: The same negatives from the other game types can apply in these games as well depending on what features are available from the other games. Extras: Keep your wager small if possible, but high enough to see the bonus possibilities unlocked. 10 – Wild Play Machines These are a major part of the modern repertoire of video games, offering wild symbols that can offer players a chance to win even more on the reels. The wilds are symbols that can be substituted for other symbols and help create even more winning combinations as you play. Most modern video slots feature some form of wild symbol. The addition of wild symbols by slot manufacturers has been a popular move among slot players who enjoy seeing more action. Pros: More winning opportunities and added entertainment value. Cons: Wilds don’t always mean winning spins. Players could also be tempted to wager more per spin with more wilds in the mix. Extras: Some games even feature more than one bonus and the appearance of some of these symbols can even bring about more bonus features. 11 – Video Poker While many may not realize it, video poker is grouped among slot machines but features much different gameplay. These games offer a much different experience and are based on the traditional Five Card Draw Poker with a random number generator determining how the cards are dealt. Players interact with the game and decide which cards they’d like to hold and which they like to discard and draw. There are numerous versions of Video Poker including Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and more. The games pay out more for more coins in the game, just check the paytable to determine what works best for your own bankroll. Pros: A more analytical game that tends to bring a more laid-back gaming experience. Players can get better odds with practice and learning basic strategy. Cons: There are fewer favorable games today and learning the correct strategy can be time-consuming. Extras: Unlike slots, savvy players on games with better rules and payouts can reduce the house edge significantly and sometimes even tip the edge in their favor. 12 – Multi-Game Machines These games often feature several options for players to choose from and are often found at bar tabletops and other locations where players may be relaxing and might want to drop in a few bucks on a whim. Players will often find slot games along with Video Poker, Blackjack, Keno, and other options. Pros: Laid-back gaming with several options to choose from. Simple gameplay doesn’t always mean you have to be located in the main gaming floor of the casino. Cons: Some games, such as Video Poker and Blackjack, may not include the most favorable odds. Extras: For those who enjoy a nice drink at the bar, these games can often include some free cocktails for those playing. 13 – Video Slots Video slots are more of a generic term used to describe modern slots that feature excellent graphics and features. The ”reels” on this game are found on the video screen and players will also find plenty of extras not found in classic mechanical reel games, such as bonus games, multiple paylines, and free games.. Pros: Advanced graphics and sound. Numerous features like bonus games and more. Cons: No classic mechanical gaming for those who enjoy some vintage-style play. Extras: Available in multiple stakes and themes. 14 – How to Choose a Slot Type Considering some of these options will help you determine which games might best fit your own personality – or better yet, your bankroll. Those on more limited budgets will want to make sure those bucks are stretched over a longer length of time to make for a better gaming experience. Players with larger bankrolls may not be as concerned about drought in winnings and instead may be searching for even bigger scores when some payouts do come their way. Perhaps your personality is just in favor of more action on the reels and you get bored a little when those winnings don’t always show up – even when some of the horse wins may not even be large enough to cover the cost of a spin. Some players just like seeing some wins along the way. Maybe bonus features and wild symbols are a bit more fun for you when spinning some reels. There are slot machines in the above categories for all types of players. Choose some that fit your wagering style and personality. Here’s a quick guide on games to consider. Personality type or trait Games to play Seeks more action and wins Multi-coin/Multi-line, Wild Play Machines, Video Poker, Multi-Game Machines More interested in bigger payouts Buy-a-Pays, Progressives Smaller bankroll Single Coin Slot, Combination Slots Larger bankroll Bonus Multipliers, Progressives Make a selection and indulge in our spectacular slots below: Click here to explore all of our free slots.
29 May, 2023
Huff N More FUN
Jackpot Party is gearing up to blow you away with the launch of the latest and greatest NEW slot, Huff N' More Puff! It is already released in the land-based market so players can now take Huff N’ More Puff with them on-the-go in Jackpot Party! First up, at the center of the dance floor, we have the Mega Hat Feature. In this bonus feature, bigger hats spin through until the reels stop, and whatever spaces have hats then become locked in straw house borders triggering your six free spins. Next, we have the Buzz Saw Feature. Each buzz saw starts from the space it landed for the bonus trigger and adds a border to each space from its starting point to the right until it rolls off the screen, locking in each reward. Finally, Huff N' More Puff also includes the Mansions Feature. During this feature, all the hats that land on the reels automatically yield mansion borders and the spaces the buzzsaws land give you mansion house borders to start. You even get a visit from the BIG BAD WOLF, who we have grown fond of since he huffs n’ puffs MORE jackpots for you! With the built-in bonuses, players have the potential to win even bigger and better prizes than before. Your piggy banks will be full of wins, rewards, jackpots and MORE! You will not want to miss the action of Huff N' More Puff! This slot is a must-try for avid slot game enthusiasts both in-game and on the casino floor! Do not miss your chance to spin the reels and experience the big bad FUN of Huff N’ More Puff! Head into Jackpot Party now and get ready for a thrilling adventure filled with amazing rewards, your favorite Piggies, the Big Bad Wolf, all the new features, and so much more!
16 May, 2023
A Beginner's Guide to RTP in Slots: Everything You Need to Know
The slot reels whirl around after you hit the “spin” button again. This time the symbols line up just right and a big jackpot is heading your way. That’s the dream for many slot players and it’s always fun to lock up a hefty win or a cool bonus game. And while it’s not really a possibility to gain an edge on the house, a major part of possibly booking a winning session is paying attention to a slot or casino’s RTP. This determines how much is actually paid back to players. What does RTP stand for and how does it work? Keep reading to learn all about RTP and its role in rewarding slot machine players. 1 – What is RTP in Slots? RTP in slots means "Return to Player." It is a percentage that indicates how much of the wagered money a slot machine will pay back to players over time. For example, if a slot has an RTP of 95%, it means that for every $100 wagered, the machine will, on average and over the long term, return $95 to players. A game or casino that keeps all wagers when it comes to playing slots would not be much fun. No one wants to head to a casino, either live or online, and have zero chance of booking any wins. This wouldn’t be a good idea for casinos either, as players might stop showing up to gamble their hard-earned money. Because of this, casinos and slot manufacturers make sure to at least pay out a portion of the money wagered overall in slot machines. Some may send back 90% of all funds wagered in the form of payouts and jackpots. This keeps players wagering, but also sends a nice amount to the house as well. The percentage of that money wagered (often called “coin-in”) that is returned back to players is called RTP, which stands for “Return to Player.” This figure is described as a percentage and players can often find RTP for: Individual slots Live casinos Individual casino betting limits, such as high-stakes slots Regions, states, and other jurisdictions Online slots and platforms Why is a slot or property’s RTP important? Simply put, this figure helps players determine which properties or slots pay the most back to players. While math can’t be denied and the casino will always have an advantage, those with a higher RTP give players a better chance to win. This can be some good information to be armed with on your next trip to the casino, dropping some credits in your favorite game, or logging in to your favorite online casino. 2 – How to calculate RTP slots With the definition in mind for RTP, players may want to know exactly how to read an RTP percentage and what it exactly applies to. As an example, consider a slot machine that has an RTP of 96%. This means that for every $1 inserted into the machine, 97 cents of that is paid back out to players. As noted earlier, this calculation could also apply to casinos as a whole or even differing limits. One casino might have an RTP of 97% for high-limit slots while an overall RTP of 95% for all slots within the entire casino. So what is a good RTP for a slot or casino? Well obviously the higher, the better. That gives you more of a chance of winning some of your money back or at least making that entertaining night at the slots last longer. Typically, players will want to look for an RTP of at least 95-96%, but some can inch even higher. This gives you a nice chance at some return on your “investment.” Some properties and online casinos take pride in offering “loose” slots and advertise their RTP and how players have a better chance of winning. It’s important to clarify something that might possibly confuse players – that’s the difference between a slot machine’s RTP and payout. A payout refers to money or credits paid out to a player on an individual spin of the reels. The RTP refers to the total percentage of money paid back out to all players over a certain period of time. Here’s a look at some key differences in these concepts. Slot/casino RTP Slot payouts Percentage paid out to players overall A certain amount is paid out for a jackpot or individual slot Can apply to individual slots, casinos, or regions Usually applies to an individual game or a progressive slot, which pools money wagered over a certain area for larger jackpots Expressed as a percentage Expressed in a monetary value such as dollars, euros, or British pounds 3 – How to find RTP on slots? The great thing about knowing RTP is that these percentages can be used by players to determine which properties or slot machines themselves are best for playing. Machines with a higher RTP offer you the best chance at some bang for your buck. Numerous slot machine companies actually report the RTP for their own games. For some, this can be changed by individual properties. However, many gaming regulators require properties to report their RTP. This offers players a look at the overall properties. There are also numerous online sites that report games and casinos’ overall return to player figures. A player heading to Las Vegas may want to look up some of their favorite games and casinos to see what those RTPs are, giving them some choices on which games offer the best chances at winning. Here are a few of Jackpot Party's most famous Vegas slots: Much of this advice also applies to online slots. Figures are also readily available for online casino operators and online slots. Some online slot developers even make it more difficult for operators to change those payout figures. Others offer a range of several versions of the game with varying RTP options. Similar to live casinos, many online sources are available to check out these statistics. Some online operators also report their own figures as at a live casino. Players may want to proceed with some caution regarding this self-reporting however. Some claims may apply to more specific aspects of an operator’s gaming platform. 4 – Considering variance/volatility when it comes to playing slots and RTP Volatility and variance are two slots terms that are used interchangeably in the casino industry to refer to how often a slot is likely to hit a winning combination. This refers to the risk-versus-reward factors that come with playing certain slots. A slot with a low variance will pay out often but with smaller returns on those wins. A high variance (or volatile) slot will pay out less frequently but generally offer higher rewards when players do hit a winning combination. Here’s a look at how slots are generally organized when it comes to the idea of variance/volatility. Degree of variance Frequency of wins Payouts Risk vs. Reward Low Frequent Smaller Lower risk with same level of reward Medium Average Normal Normal risk with middling results on average High Less often Larger Chances at larger payouts but with larger risk Those players looking for plenty of action will want to look for lower volatility games that offer regular payouts although they may not be large. Players looking for a bigger score will gravitate toward games with higher volatility, which can result in some larger jackpots although players may experience longer losing streaks before seeing some of their money back. In comparison to RTP, variance and volatility are much more short-term measurements for more specific types of slots. RTP on the other hand refers to more long-term percentages of money sent back to players in the form of winnings. RTP is a figure utilized in the gaming industry in conjunction with win percentage that also allows slot players to determine what properties, slot machines, online slots, and differing slots categories (such as stakes played) offer the best chance of seeing some of that money returned as winnings. With this greater slot landscape, individual slots will vary in volatility. Like RTP, numerous online sources offer players insight into the volatility of certain games. 5 – Las Vegas slots and RTP As noted, many RTP facts and figures can be found in gaming regulatory information. That goes for casinos in Las Vegas and the state of Nevada as a whole. A good way to determine these numbers is to look at a property’s win percentage when it comes to slots. For example, if a Las Vegas casino reports a 9% win percentage then the casino is returning 91% of all slot coin-in back to players. This gives the property an RTP of 91%. When considering different areas of Las Vegas, a few have a higher RTP average than others. The worst is the Strip, which as of January 2023 had a win percentage of 8.5% for a 91.5% RTP. Downtown Vegas has only slightly better as areas catering more to tourists tend to keep more for the house. Other areas outside Las Vegas may cater to more discerning local slot players. For example, Laughlin has an RTP of 92% and Boulder checks in at almost 94%. Off-Strip properties may offer better payback percentages than those that attract a larger number of players. When looking at another Nevada casino hotspot, Reno checks in with a nice RTP average of 94.5%. But these are just regional averages. Savvy gamblers will want to do even more research to find properties and games that offer even better RTPs than seen in these broader figures. These numbers also can differ by the stakes you play. Websites like LasVegasThenandNow.com, LasVegasCasinoNews.com, and Casino Player and Strictly Slots magazines offer players a look at various casinos’ RTP in Las Vegas and beyond. According to Las Vegas Casino News, some of the best properties to play in Sin City in terms of RTP, , include: Circus Circus – 97.4% Golden Nugget – 95.63% and higher Excalibur – 95.1% Sam’s Town – 95% Palms – 94% 6 – Highest RTP casino slot machines The best RTP slots are those that pay out more to players. This gives you a better chance to make your gambling bankroll last longer. This allows players to survive the sling streaks that come with slot play. A few things to consider: Games with higher denomination limits tend to have higher RTP. That doesn’t mean it’s smart to play above your limits, however. Individual slots’ RTPs can often be found on manufacturer websites and regulatory websites. Online slots often have higher RTP than what one might find in a traditional casino. On this last bullet point, some online slots even pay back 99 cents out of every dollar for a 99% payback percentage. That kind of RTP won’t be found in a casino. But an online casino also doesn't have much of the overhead associated with a traditional casino such as restaurants, shows, running hotels, etc. A few online slots offering great RTP include Mega Joker (99%), Jackpot 6000 (98.9%), The Catfather (98.1%), and Rainbow Riches (98%). Those heading to a live casino may want to keep an eye out for their favorite games as well. While many games in a brick-and-mortar casino won’t have the types of RTP payouts seen above, finding slots and properties with payouts in the 94-96% range isn’t heard of either. It's worth doing some research to avoid stingy machines. Select and savor our extraordinary slots listed below. Click here to explore all of our free slots. 7 – Frequently asked questions What does RTP stand for? RTP stands for “return to players’ and is the percentage of money returned to players from a certain slot machine, casino as a whole, or a certain gaming region. The term can also be applied to a certain number of slots based on stakes. How is RTP determined? This is actually a fairly simple percentage to calculate. Imagine over a certain period of time that a casino pays back 95 cents out of every dollar wagered. That means the casino is only keeping 5 cents out of every dollar played. This means that the property has a 95% RTP, rewarding players with 95 cents out of every dollar wagered. RTP can also be applied to slots or a certain range of slots themselves. RTP can also be found for online slots with numerous online sources helping in finding these figures. Many slot manufacturers even offer RTP figures for their own slots. What’s a good RTP to aim for before playing? The higher the better. But wise players may want to look for games of at least 95% RTP. More money returned to players means a better chance at some winning sessions. However, it’s important to realize that the house always has an edge when it comes to slots. Cutting that edge down offers a better chance at winning and a nice play in the long run.
27 April, 2023
What Does Volatility Mean In Slots: High Vs Low Volatility
In slot games, "volatility" is key. It's about how often and how big the payouts are. High volatility means bigger wins but less often, while low volatility means smaller wins more often. Understanding this helps players choose the right game and play smarter. In this article, we'll break down slot volatility and its importance. Keep reading to learn all about the concept of volatility in slots. 1 – What is Volatility in Slots? In slot games, the term "volatility" describes how the winnings are distributed. High volatility means the game might give out large rewards, but they're spaced out and infrequent. On the other hand, low volatility slots tend to give players wins more regularly, but these wins are typically smaller. It's a measure of the game's risk and reward: do you prefer occasional big wins or consistent small ones? Understanding a slot's volatility can help players make informed decisions on which games align with their playing style and risk tolerance. Imagine sitting at a slot and finding that the game pays out every few minutes. There may not be huge sums, but the game is at least offering you the chance to win some of your money back frequently at least to some degree. For many players, this can be a great experience. They may not win a lot of money or even achieve any profits, but these frequent payouts at least offer some nice entertainment with some bells and whistles as they add some winnings to their player bank. A different play might be at another machine. They spin and spin the reels with just more occasional wins, but these may pay out bigger rewards than the player at the more frequent paying out machine. This player may win more per payout but it takes longer to accumulate these winnings. These two examples offer an example of the concept of volatility when it comes to slot machines. The term refers to the regularity or frequency that a slot pays out and the general size of the payouts that come with the winning spins. Volatility or variance is associated with the risk-versus-reward factors that come with playing slots. Understanding volatility can help players choose games that match their playing style and budget. Here’s a quick look at varying slot volatility levels: High volatility – A game with high volatility pays out less often but features much higher payouts. For example, a game with a $3 million jackpot will pay out less often because of such a high payout. Players will collect winnings less frequently because the machine pays out so much overall in winnings. However, when you find a win, these payouts tend to be higher. Players are risking more for the chance of a larger reward. Medium volatility – These machines split the difference between high and low volatility slots. A player may get paid out a bit more on average per payout while also seeing a longer amount of time between payouts. Jackpots will also generally be smaller than those seen in highly volatile games but larger than in lower volatile games. Medium volatility games lie somewhere between high and low. Low volatility – These games payout more often with smaller payouts in general. A player may cash in but not see as large of payouts as seen in higher volatility games. Players will have less risk in these types of games but also don’t have as many opportunities for bigger rewards. For example, a slot with only a $5,000 maximum payout would have much lower volatility. Because the jackpot is so low, these machines can pay out more often over time. Other rewards from a slot can also be considered when considering a game’s volatility. On average, a bonus that appears on average about once in every 500,000 spins would usually come with a larger payout than a game rewarding a bonus round after an average of 100 spins. The same thinking follows for scatters and free spin features. One additional note: don’t confuse volatility with RTP (return to player). RTP refers to the total amount a slot or individual casino pays out to players. For example, if a casino keeps 5% of all slot coin-in then that property has a 95% RTP. Take a look at the comprehensive manual for RTP Slots. On the other hand, as noted, volatility refers to the frequency and amounts awarded on an individual slot. This is usually calculated based on the distribution of payouts over a large number of spins. Here’s a quick guide to help you remember how volatility in slots works. Low Volatility Vs High Volatility Slots Chart Degree of variance Frequency of wins Payouts Risk vs. Reward Low Frequent Smaller Lower risk with same level of reward Medium Average Medium-sized Normal risk with middling results on average High Rare Larger Chances at larger payouts but with larger risk 2 – Why Volatility Matters in Slot Games This may seem like a pretty deep concept, but a general knowledge of volatility/variance will help a player determine their tastes when it comes to heading to a casino or playing some slots online. Making a note of volatility can greatly impact a player's enjoyment of a game and how often they win. Someone with a smaller bankroll who doesn't want to go a long time without at least cashing in some occasional winnings will want to check out low-volatility games. This may not mean a player can beat the house, but they can at least enjoy seeing their bankroll possibly last longer, especially if this player relaxes and doesn’t get in too much of a hurry. These offer players more action than spinning the reels more and over a longer amount of time than a more highly volatile game. A player more interested in achieving some large jackpots, and possibly even a massive progressive jackpot, will tend to favor more volatile games. These players may be a bit more patient or are less deterred by longer streams without finding some winnings. These games usually require a larger bankroll as well and some of these games may even come with higher stakes to play. However, if they do spin the reels just right, these players will be rewarded with more cash coming their way. Those games with a medium volatility fall in between and might be a nice consideration for those who don’t want too long between wins but also have a shot at winning some higher amounts than in low volatility games. As noted, players should understand how volatility affects the likelihood of winning and the size of payouts. This can impact the decision you make on which games to play. Here’s a quick look at the type of players that might be attracted to each level of volatility. High variance – More patient players with a larger bankroll. Players are seeking larger payouts and are less interested in smaller rewards. Medium variance – Patient players but interested in a nice mix of regular payouts that might be a bit larger. These players may need a larger bankroll as well to survive some of the droughts of not securing as frequent wins. Low variance – These players may not want to wait as long to cash in at least to some degree on a slot, despite seeing smaller payouts over the long haul. This is also a good plan for players who have smaller bankrolls and want to make their money last longer. Select and play our fantastic slots featured below: Click here to explore all of our free slots. 3 – How to Determine the Volatility of a Slot Game Volatility can be a bit confusing and there is some deep mathematics involved in actually figuring out the numbers behind a game’s level of volatility. But a quick look at a game’s paytable can also offer some insight and give players a quick guide on whether the game has high or low volatility. The paytable will show the payouts for different combinations of symbols, which can indicate volatility. As denoted above, those pay tables showing a much higher jackpot possibility tend to have much higher volatility. The lower the top payouts are, the lower the volatility the slot has. A game's RTP can also offer some insight into the game’s volatility. Those games with higher RTP, paying out a larger total to players, often have lower volatility. A game’s RTP and hit frequency figures may be found right on the game’s information screen. Some of this information can also be found online. Some slot information sites and message boards offer players their own reviews and experiences with various games. This can be a helpful way to determine a certain slot's volatility. Players also have another option to check a game’s volatility by playing in demo mode online at sites like Jackpot Party. You can determine how frequently a game rewards a payout and how large these usually are. Some ideas to remember when determining a game’s volatility: Use RTP to see how a game plays out. A higher RTP usually means lower volatility. Many online sites and message boards offer player experiences on certain games. Play games in demo mode, such as on Jackpot Party, to check a game’s payout frequency and average prize sizes. 4 – Tips for Playing High-Volatility Slots As in all gaming, players must set a budget and not go over that. You shouldn’t wager more than what you can afford to lose. Gaming funds should be part of an entertainment budget and it’s important to set limits and play at stakes you can afford. Because high volatility slots may not see as many wins, it’s important to stick to that budget. These games can quickly eat through a player’s bankroll, so make those spins count and don’t get in too much of a hurry. Players must also be patient when it comes to seeing some winning. Realize that you may experience long stretches with no wins. High-volatility games are riskier, so losing an entire bankroll is certainly possible. However, there may also be sessions at the slots where you cash in for a nice win. Knowing when to walk away from a high-volatility game is critical, especially after a big win. Chalk up a nice winning session – and celebrate overcoming the odds. 5 – Tips for Playing Low Volatility Slots Some slot players just love seeing more wins come up on those reels. These gamblers tend to enjoy playing for longer periods and making their bankroll last as they sip a cocktail and chat with friends. Low-volatility games are better suited for longer playing sessions, offering more frequent wins. Players looking to cash in more, however, should play all the paylines. This increases the frequency of wins and potential payouts. Playing with smaller bets is also something to keep in mind, especially for those with smaller bankrolls. Lower volatility games often feature smaller bets than those with higher volatility games, which include larger stakes progressive jackpot games and can help stretch a bankroll for a longer amount of playing time. Playing more paylines also gives you more chances to take advantage of bonus features. These games can offer additional payouts and increase the overall excitement of the game. Here’s a summary of some of the tips on playing slots regarding volatility. High volatility Low volatility Stakes Often higher because payouts may be much higher. It can be lower, but important to play all paylines. Budget May need a bigger bankroll because of less-frequent wins. Bankroll can be lower, but important to stick to a budget. Payout sizes Larger Smaller Payout frequency Rare Often Player type More patient Looks for more action, and doesn’t want to wait as long Want more slot tips? Dive into our How to Win at Slot Guide for a detailed breakdown 6 – Conclusion Volatility is a key concept in the world of slot machines that gauges the frequency and amounts paid out on certain games. High-volatility games pay out less frequently but can reward higher amounts. Lower volatility games pay out more often but at smaller amounts. A medium volatility game falls somewhere in between, with a bit higher payouts than low volatility games but still some chances at higher payouts. Understanding volatility is key to choosing the right slot game for your playing style and budget. You have to think of your personality and feelings about risk versus rewards. Considering this concept and researching some of your favorite slots when visiting a casino can make for a more enjoyable experience.
23 April, 2023