Any gambler who’s watched a vintage movie about Las Vegas has likely noticed the iconic mechanical slot machine. These traditional slot machines, unlike today's games which rely on a random number generator, operated using tangible moving parts to determine outcomes. Charles Fey from San Francisco is credited with inventing the very first mechanical slot machine in the late 19th century, aptly named the "Liberty Bell." Since its introduction, slot machines have evolved with various technological advances. Yet, for many years, players' fortunes depended on the intricate mechanics of these beloved machines, where wins and losses were determined by gears and levers rather than digital computations. Keep reading to find out a bit about how these mechanical slot machines worked and if they can be found for playing today. How Do Mechanical Slot Machines Work? Most slot players take the act of popping a few dollars in a slot machine or opening up their mobile phone or laptop to spin some reels for granted. It's pretty easy to get in on the action and modern games feature plenty of “bells and whistles” – from high-definition video with mind-blowing graphics to cinema-style sound effects to easily-changeable betting options. But these types of options weren’t always the case. Early machines featured single denominations of stakes and very few bells and whistles (although bells were a common symbol on early machines). Despite these limited options, early slots were highly popular with gamblers. Machines are the main draw and gambling revenue drivers for most casinos around the world. “There has never been any other gambling device which has produced such enormous profits with so little effort on the part of the operator,” Scarne’s New Complete Guide to Gambling notes. The author adds: “The slot machine is the only mechanical device with a mechanical banker that collects losing bets, pays off winning bets, and makes fewer mistakes than any human dealer in any casino banking game.” Early machines were manufactured in machine shops and made use of mechanical gadgets instead of techno-wizardry, although there definitely was some skilled engineering to make these gambling devices work. Many of these classic games made use of typical machine-style components including: a cabinet (often metal in the early days) to encase the mechanics gears levers metal shaft to support the spinning reels notched discs kicker connected stoppers Classic machines may vary a bit, but this is the general idea of how the mechanical inner workings of a slot machine work. A metal shaft is a key part of the machine’s functions by supporting the reels (usually only three on older machines), which display various symbols and signify a certain action such as a win, loss, or jackpot. The shaft is connected to a handle protruding from the machine (hence the nickname “one-armed bandit”). Some modern machines feature a handle as well, although they only activate the slot’s computer software. But in these older machines, the handle actually worked to get the mechanical reels spinning and in motion. A braking system brings the spinning reels to a stop to signal a win or loss. Later machines also made use of sensors to enable payouts based on the position of the reels. More advanced mechanical reels eventually also used coin detectors to initiate the game after a coin was inserted into a “slot” – giving the games the name “slot machines.” This mechanism released a brake so a player could move the handle and go for a spin. Here are a few of Jackpot Party's most famous Vegas slots: Click here to uncover our selection of free slots. What is the Kicker and Stoppers? There’s a bit more to this mechanical process with devices called “kickers” and “stoppers” playing a major role. The three reels on the central shaft also house three notched discs. A second shaft supports the slot kicker. This piece is made up of three paddles that intersect with and push against the disc notches. This second shaft also supports several connected stoppers, which protrude into the disc notches. The kicker and stoppers are joined to springs, which lock them in a “standby” position. When the handle is pulled, these are released until they come to a stop and the reels display that spin’s results. Line them up just right and some slot token or cash are headed your way. The actual specific mechanics of the machine varied by manufacturer, but as noted, this is the general idea of how mechanical slots work overall. It seems as the world became more industrialized and new manufacturing processes gained favor, creating a machine that mixed entertainment and gambling just seemed inevitable. Who knew how immensely popular these games would actually become? “With the emphasis on streamlined production and mechanization that came with the Second Industrial Revolution in the late 19th Century, it was only a matter of time before someone invented a machine that could help people gamble faster and more efficiently,” author David Schwartz notes in Roll the Bones: The History of Gambling. Which Pays Better, Video or Mechanical Slot Machines? Part of the fun of playing a slot is the hope that a nice win is heading your way. But cash payouts weren’t always the case. Charles Fey invented the first coin-paying slots in San Francisco in 1895. Earlier machines were more mere amusement devices and paid out prizes such as: cigars chewing gum candy more free spins on the machine free drinks But Fey’s machine revolutionized the gaming industry, transforming this amusement device into a gambling slot machine. His first machine, known as the Liberty Bell, paid out 50 cents when three bells lined up across the three reels. Slots can now be found in casinos throughout the globe as well as online on real-money gaming platforms and in social media mobile gaming options. Gaming options have changed dramatically but the general idea that payouts come via finding fortuitous luck on those spinning reels remains. Obviously, as advances were made, payouts advanced beyond that initial 50-cent win on a Liberty Bell. Players could wager higher denominations and also win on multiple lines. Modern video slots offer much easier ways to win at much higher denominations. However, players must also be willing to wager more per spin because of so many paylines now available to players. Modern slots also offer the chance to win progressive jackpots as well, which can reach staggering sums. These are reached by games being linked across numerous locations and jurisdictions. A small portion of each spin is put into the progressive payout pool and players getting extremely lucky can take all or even a smaller share of that total. In general, players now have many more opportunities to win on a video slot machine or a game with spinning reels but also using modern software and technological engineering. How Do Mechanical Slots Produce Random Results? The mechanics of a mechanical slot help produce random spins based on the actual spinning of the reels. The kicker and stoppers eventually help bring them to a stop as the reels begin to slow. Is this truly random? That depends on one’s perspective. But in the age of computer software, probably not a perfectly random outcome. The mechanics of these games may have favored certain results occasionally but manufacturers were working with real machine parts and worked to make these results as random as possible. Gaming commissions also worked to make sure these were fair games. This is much different than modern slots. These games make use of a random number generator (RNG) to predetermine an outcome before a player even spins the reels. The software predetermines the outcome based on slot machine algorithms for a completely random result. Modern slots are much more computer and software than an actual machine. How to Fix Vintage Mechanical Slot Machines? Many people love the feel of old mechanical slot machines, but sometimes they can have problems. Here's a simple guide to fixing the most common issues: Safety First! Before diving into repairs, always remember to unplug the machine or ensure it's not connected to any power source. You're dealing with metal parts, and safety should always be a priority. Jammed Coin Mechanism: A frequent problem with mechanical slot machines is the jamming of the coin mechanism. Solution: - Open the front panel using a slot machine key or a suitable replacement. - Carefully remove the coin mechanism from the machine. - Inspect for foreign objects, bent coins, or debris. If found, gently remove them. - Check moving parts for any visible wear or damage. If worn out, consider replacing them or seeking professional help. Stuck or Non-Spinning Reels: If your reels aren’t spinning, the cause might be a broken or misaligned spring, or an issue with the internal gears. Solution: Carefully remove the machine's back panel. Examine the springs connected to the reels. Replace any that appear stretched or damaged. Check the internal gears. Clear any debris or accumulated dirt using a soft brush. If gears appear worn out or damaged, sourcing replacements might be necessary. It's advisable to consult with a specialist if you're unfamiliar with the gear system. Non-Functional Pull Lever: If the lever isn't working, it could be due to a disconnect between the lever and the internal mechanism, or it might be broken. Solution: Open the side or back panel to access the lever mechanism. Check for disconnections or breaks in the linkage. Reattach or replace as necessary. Apply a light lubricant to the lever joints to ensure smooth movement. Misaligned Payout System: Sometimes, the machine doesn't release coins even after a win. Solution: Open the machine's front or back panel. Examine the coin release pathway for any obstructions and remove them. Check the payout discs and tubes for misalignments. Ensure they line up correctly with the payout slot. Regular Maintenance: To keep your machine running smoothly: Regularly clean and dust the internal components. Apply a light machine oil to moving parts annually to reduce friction and wear. Always handle internal components gently to avoid causing inadvertent damage. What Happened to Mechanical Slot Machines? As computers became more in use in the 1980 to 2000s, slots began to transform. Slowly those mechanical inner workings were replaced by more modern technology. Developers could create more entertaining and innovative games using new technology. Even the use of coins and slot tokens faded away. Players could use cash and then be paid out in vouchers which could easily be used in other machines. All these changes revolutionized the industry and this saw a surge in the game’s popularity. Players loved numerous new features such as: user interactivity video clips multiple paylines bonus rounds free spins Pop culture tie-ins such as movies, TV shows, and musical acts Many slot machines began featuring a narrative element or at least a common theme, such as ancient mythology, animals, or almost anything else imaginable that might resonate with players. This new breed of slot machines began replacing those older machines featuring real mechanical reels and inner workings. Many were scrapped but some vintage games remain sought after by collectors. Perhaps you’ve seen one in a friend’s game room or a museum such as the Mob Museum in Las Vegas. A few Las Vegas casinos still offer the chance to gamble on some vintage machines. Some may feature a bit of computer technology but offer the best chance to gamble on classic mechanical slots. For those looking to play some slots of a bygone era, the best place to find some is probably in downtown Vegas. Grab a bucket of quarters, drop a few in the “slot,” pull the handle, and hopefully a nice win is heading your way. Where to Find Vintage Mechanical Slot Machines for Purchase Before purchasing an old mechanical slot machine, ensure it's legal to own one in your jurisdiction. Some places restrict ownership based on the machine's age or prohibit it altogether. Where to Buy: Online Auctions: Websites like eBay often list vintage slot machines. Always verify the machine's authenticity and the seller's reputation. Specialty Retailers: Some shops specialize in antique slot machines, such as San Diego Antique Slot Machines or Nation's Attic. Forums & Clubs: Join slot machine enthusiast forums or clubs. Members might share leads or sell their own machines. Local Antique Stores: Depending on your location, nearby antique shops might occasionally stock vintage slot machines. Classifieds: Check local classifieds or platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Ensure you verify the item's authenticity and the seller's trustworthiness. Buying Tips: Condition Check: Determine if the machine is operational or needs repairs. Consider potential restoration costs. Return Policy: For online purchases, ensure there's a clear return policy in case of discrepancies. Remember, when transporting your purchase, handle with care to protect its delicate mechanisms. Frequently Asked Questions How do mechanical slot machines work? These older machines make use of gears, levers, discs, and other mechanical inner workings to determine the results of a spin of the reels. Early machines featured only machine inner workings whereas today machines make use of software and technology to determine wins and losses. Can players win more on a mechanical slot or a modern video slot? Modern machines offer numerous ways to pay, high denominations to wager (and win), and the opportunity to win progressive jackpots. Did mechanical slots feature random results? The outcomes of a slot were as random as possible based on the technology at the time. The reels spun after pulling the handle and eventually stopped due to the mechanics found inside the slot cabinet.

Tournaments aren’t just for poker players anymore. Slot players can now enjoy the thrill and competition of a tournament with a shot at winning some big cash and some added excitement to the casino experience. A slot tournament has players spinning and spinning, more focused on competing against other players rather than simply booking a winning session. These events can now be found in casinos around the world and offer some extra incentives as well as plenty of fun when hitting the slots. What is a Slot Tournament? A slot tournament is a competitive casino event where a group of players, often with a set entry fee, compete against each other on slot machines within a specified time frame or with a predetermined number of spins. The goal is to accumulate the highest winnings or points during the tournament, with the top-performing players receiving prizes that can include cash, casino credits, merchandise, or trips. Slot tournaments add an element of competition and excitement to traditional slot machine gameplay, encouraging players to strategize and aim for the highest scores within the confines of the tournament's rules and structure. What is a Slot Tournament? A slot tournament is a casino competition where players pay to join and compete on slot machines. They aim to win as much as they can within a set time or spins, with top players earning prizes. It's a fun way to make slot games more exciting and competitive. How do Slot Tournaments work? Here's a brief step-by-step explanation of how slot tournaments work: Registration: Players usually need to register or sign up for the tournament. This may involve an entry fee, though some casinos offer freeroll tournaments. Allocation of Machines: Each player is assigned to a specific slot machine or is given a choice from a set of machines. In some cases, players use their own account with a specified game. Start of the Tournament: Players are given a set number of credits or spins, and a fixed time frame in which to play them. Play: Players start spinning the slot machines. The goal is to win as many credits as possible within the given time or spins. In some tournaments, all credits won are the player's score, while in others, only certain wins or challenges add to the score. Keep an Eye on the Leaderboard: Throughout the tournament, scores are often displayed on a leaderboard. Players can see where they rank relative to others and gauge their performance. Time or Spins Run Out: Once a player runs out of credits or the allotted time expires, their session ends, and their final score is recorded. Determining the Winners: After all participants have played, the scores are tallied. Those with the highest scores are usually awarded prizes. Prizes can range from cash, casino credits, merchandise, or even trips. Prize Distribution: Winners are announced, and prizes are distributed. The player with the highest score usually receives the top prize. What is a slot tournament? A slot tournament is a casino competition where players pay to join and compete on slot machines. They aim to win as much as they can within a set time or spins, with top players earning prizes. It's a fun way to make slot games more exciting and competitive. Who can resist the colorful video graphics, impressive sound effects, and energy of a slot machine? Whether playing in a live casino or online, some slot play can be a fun bit of escapism and there’s a reason they are the most popular gaming devices in a casino. And for those who are regular players, a slot tournament can be a great way to add to the action even more. A slot tournament offers something a bit different, with players battling it out at a game against other players for cash and prizes rather than simply hoping to chalk up some wins against the game itself. In a normal slot tournament, a certain number of competitors sign up to play and pay a fee to get in the action. That amount goes into the prize pool for payouts when the tournament is complete. Some casinos and online sites may also run promotional slot tournaments for players as a reward to loyal customers or maybe even as an enticement for new players and guests. During the tournament, players spin and spin on their games with the hopes of achieving some winnings. The player who accumulates the most by the time play concludes is declared the winner and takes home a nice payout. This can be quite the thrill and the overall slot tournament action usually brings plenty of smiles. Craft your slot journey by choosing from the list below: Click here to explore our library of free slots. Are Slot Tournaments Worth It? Whether slot tournaments are worth participating in depends on your preferences and goals. Here are some factors to consider: Enjoyment: If you love playing slots and thrive in a competitive environment, slot tournaments can be a thrilling experience. Prizes: Slot tournaments often offer substantial prizes, including cash, which can make them financially rewarding. Skill Level: Slot tournaments rely heavily on luck, so no specific skill is required. Players simply need to focus and play strategically. Cost: Consider the entry fee and whether it fits your budget. Ultimately, the worth of a slot tournament varies from person to person. Some players find them immensely enjoyable and profitable, while others may prefer traditional slot play. How to play a slot tournament? Those thinking of jumping into a slot tournament, whether live or online, will want to know how the action plays out and what they are getting into. A typical event can go one or more rounds. Competitors usually play either with a set number of credits on their machines or for a certain amount of time during each round. Once a round starts, players begin spinning the reels on their slots. Just as in a normal slot session, finding those free spins and bonus rounds certainly helps. Each combination that hits can score a predetermined number of points that can add to a player’s spot in the standings, depending on the tournament rules. Remember that you’re trying to beat all the other players in the tournament. Keep spinning and leave the cocktails, chit-chat, and cell phone behind for a bit. You’ll only have a certain amount of time to accrue those winnings. In the end, winnings are tabulated to determine the winners or players who advance to the next round of play. That thrill of victory certainly adds to the excitement of a little slot play. Here are a few of Jackpot Party's most famous Vegas slots: Are Slot Tournaments Free to Enter? Slot tournaments can have varying entry requirements. Some may require an entry fee, while others offer freeroll tournaments where participation is free. Freeroll tournaments are an excellent opportunity for players to test the waters and experience the thrill of competition without any financial risk. Types of Slot Tournaments Slot tournaments come in various forms, catering to a wide range of preferences and playing styles. Some common types of slot tournaments include: Single-Round Tournaments: These tournaments consist of a single round of play, with winners determined at the end of that round. Multi-Round Tournaments: Multi-round tournaments involve several rounds of play, with players advancing to subsequent rounds based on their performance. The final round determines the overall winner. Sit-and-Go Tournaments: These impromptu tournaments start when a predetermined number of participants register. They can be single-round or multi-round events. Scheduled Tournaments: Casinos and online platforms often schedule slot tournaments at specific times, allowing players to plan their participation in advance. Specialty Tournaments: Some tournaments cater to specific customer segments, such as senior citizens, VIP players, or loyal customers. Slot Tournament Rules: What You Need to Know Slot tournaments bring an exciting competitive edge to the world of slot gaming. To ensure a level playing field and fair play, specific rules govern these tournaments. Here's a concise overview of the key slot tournament rules: Registration and Entry Fees: Players register for the tournament, which may involve an entry fee. Freeroll tournaments allow free entry. Machine Allocation: Players are assigned specific slot machines or offered choices. Duration of Play: Tournaments have set timeframes, varying from minutes to hours. Credits or Spins: Players receive credits or spins for tournament use, separate from regular play. Scoring Criteria: Points are earned based on winnings during the tournament. Leaderboard Monitoring: Scores are displayed on a leaderboard for real-time tracking. Completion of Play: When credits run out or time expires, the session ends, and the final score is recorded. Determining Winners: Top scores win prizes, often including cash, credits, or merchandise.Prize Distribution: Prizes are awarded based on rankings, with the highest scorer usually claiming the top prize. Special Rules: Some tournaments allow rebuys, add-ons, or mandate equal spins/credits for all players. Tournament Formats: Various formats exist, including single-round, multi-round, sit-and-go, scheduled, and specialty tournaments. Tournament-Specific Rules: Each tournament may have unique rules that participants should review. Fair Play: Players should arrive on time, avoid distractions, and show respect for fellow participants. Maximum Bet Strategy: Betting the maximum credits is a common strategy for higher payouts. Tournament Officials: Tournaments are overseen by directors or casino staff responsible for rule enforcement and dispute resolution. Understanding these rules ensures an enjoyable and fair slot tournament experience. So, next time you enter a slot tournament, you'll be ready to spin your way to victory while playing by the rules. Are Slot Tournaments Free to Enter? Slot tournaments can have varying entry requirements. Some may require an entry fee, while others offer freeroll tournaments where participation is free. Freeroll tournaments are an excellent opportunity for players to test the waters and experience the thrill of competition without any financial risk. Slot tournaments in Las Vegas and at live casinos Finding a slot tournament in Las Vegas is fairly easy. A quick look online will help a player scout out possible events for that next trip to Sin City. Many properties around Vegas regularly offer some tournament action. Some casinos offer tournaments daily with many even running a tournament a few times a day. Being a member of the casino’s rewards club is usually required. For example, the Plaza hosts a daily $1,000 tournament for rewards club members as well as a 777 Slot Tournament on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday four times per day. When searching here are a few things to keep in mind: Players club – Join these and players are often rewarded for their play with an invitation to a slot tournament. This goes for other locations outside Vegas as well. Special tournaments – Some properties offer tournaments for specialized customer segments, such as senior citizens and other special guests. Locals casinos – Many properties away from the Strip are more likely to offer slot tournaments, so don’t be shy about venturing off the beaten path a bit. Tournaments have become more popular in recent years and casinos have worked to meet that demand. Management also likes hosting these events because they tend to bring in some bigger players. That means gamblers playing more slots, buying meals and show tickets, and playing more slots and table games. So slot tournaments can also function as a marketing vehicle for some casinos. Online slot tournaments Slot tournaments can also easily be found online. Many free and real-money gaming platforms offer players a chance to compete in some of their favorite slot games. Players competing in these events may find even more options than what a player might find in a traditional casino. Free slot tournaments offer a chance at some of the fun with a shot at a real cash prize or maybe just some bragging rights. Online slot games allow players to compete from anywhere using a computer or mobile device. On platforms with real-money gaming, players can also compete for small amounts with a chance at some big payouts. Here’s a look at slot tournaments played in both live and online casinos. Slot Tournaments – Online Casinos vs. Live Casinos Online Live Entry fees and payouts Can be free for just a few dollars Can have payouts occasionally even for free tournaments Can be free as a reward for players’ club members. Entries may be considerably more than playing online. Prizes can be large Ease of play Can play anywhere in legal jurisdictions via online platforms Must be physically in a casino Strategy Same as in a live casino – play as fast as possible (see below) Play as fast as possible Entertainment value Fun events, but no real social interaction with other players A social event usually brings plenty of fun and camaraderie with other players. Can be used to bring in bigger casino players. Slot tournament strategy & how to win Obviously, a major part of a slot tournament is keeping those reels spinning and spinning. Ditch the cell phone and really focus on the “spin” button. Your chance at winning the overall tournament depends on staying focused. The only major strategy involved in a slot tournament is to play as fast as possible. This means you can grab as many winnings as possible before time elapses, hopefully moving on to the next round as a result. A few things to remember when playing in the tournament: Don’t be late for a tournament round Avoid getting distracted Spin as fast as possible Don’t worry about seeing results tabulated, just spin the reels and then quickly again Play the max credit wager to earn bigger payouts and a better chance to win If you can get in more spins over the other players, you’ll gain a small edge over the rest of the field. Just reaching some bonus round play because of the number of spins you got in versus possible opponents could go a long way toward advancing to the next round or even being crowned the winner. A player is striving to hit the more valuable combinations, not that they have any control to make that happen in most cases,” Las Vegas Advisor newsletter publisher Anthony Curtis told Casino Player magazine about slot tournaments. Some slot tournaments actually require all players to have the same number of spins. This means you won’t be able to gain an edge by playing as fast as possible. Playing that slot tournament, however, should be plenty of fun as well. Video poker is also often lumped in with slots and those who enjoy these games can also find some tournaments as well at both live casinos and online. These pack on the entertainment, but video poker is a bit different. There are real strategic decisions to be made on each hand, which can be completely dependent on what decisions you make and on what game variety you’re playing. Consult strategy guides when jumping into a video poker tournament. Free slot tournaments versus real money Players looking to jump in the action of a slot tournament, either at Jackpot Party or other platforms, will find a similar experience to playing against the competition in a real casino. There are obvious differences to playing on a computer, mobile phone, or tablet, but the fun of spinning those reels remains. The good thing about playing online is that free tournaments are more prevalent and can be found fairly easily. Some platforms offer prizes of some sort for winners as a bonus for taking part. Others simply offer a chance to experience a tournament firsthand and learn how they work. When playing a real money tournament, players will obviously want to focus more as real money wagers and possible winnings are on the line. Players involved in real money slot tournaments often see bigger payouts than free-to-play tournaments even if an operator puts up a prize for the winner of a free event. Those real money slot tournaments that are played in a live casino usually come with larger entry fees than might be found when playing a real money online tournament. Whether playing for real cash or simply for free, both options can be great ways to pass some time for those who enjoy playing slots and really any form of mobile game. Get those reels spinning and hope for the best. How to practice for a slot tournament As noted in the previous section, numerous online sites and gaming platforms, such as Jackpot Party, offer players the chance to play some free slot tournaments. There may be a small prize up for grabs, but that is irrelevant for those simply looking to have a good time. If you’re new to slot tournaments, playing a free event can be a great way to learn the ins and outs of how everything works. You’ll see the overall structure and observe how a casino or online platform actually runs the tournament. There are also some thrills in simply competing in a slot tournament as more winning combinations, bonus rounds, and free spins head your way. Grab a real seat or virtual spot in a tournament and get to spinning. You just might turn out to be a champion. How to Get Invited to Slot Tournaments? Getting invited to slot tournaments can be achieved through several means: Join Casino Rewards Clubs: Becoming a member of a casino's rewards club can lead to invitations to exclusive tournaments. Promotional Offers: Keep an eye on promotional emails and notifications from casinos, as they may extend invitations to special tournaments. Frequent Play: Consistently playing at a casino may increase your chances of receiving invitations to tournaments as a reward for your loyalty. How Long Do Slot Tournaments Last? The duration of a slot tournament can vary significantly based on the tournament format. Single-round tournaments may last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, while multi-round tournaments can span several hours or even days, with players advancing through rounds. It's essential to check the tournament's schedule and format to know what to expect in terms of time commitment. In conclusion, slot tournaments offer a dynamic and competitive twist to traditional slot gameplay. With various formats, prize opportunities, and accessibility online and in live casinos, these tournaments provide an exciting option for players looking to test their luck and skills. Whether you're a seasoned slot player or new to the game, participating in a slot tournament can add an extra layer of excitement to your casino experience. Frequently asked questions What is a slot tournament? A slot tournament is a competition among players who are hoping to accumulate more winnings than all the other players they are competing against. Players may advance in differing rounds or the event may play out in a single round. The key thing to remember is that slot tournament competitors are trying to amass enough winnings to beat the other players or move on to the next round. What is a general strategy to remember for playing slot tournaments? Stay focused and play as fast as possible. The key to winning more is to spin the reels as fast as possible. This means more opportunities to win over the course of the round. Those who can play quickly can gain a small edge over much of the field. It’s also important to play maximum credits to maximize those winning spins. However, some slot tournaments have players pin the same number of times. Obviously, there is not much chance of gaining an edge in these types of events and luck simply plays a bigger factor. Can I play a slot tournament online? Yes, many online gaming and mobile gaming platforms offer players a chance to compete in slot tournaments. Some feature-free events and others may require a wager, depending on the legalities of an individual player’s own jurisdiction. Playing a free slot tournament is a great way to practice and learn how a tournament plays out. Give one of these free events a shot and see how things turn out.