slots strategy
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 does slot RTP stand for and what is its role? 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 apply 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 about 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 really find properties and games that offer even better RTPs than seen in these more broad 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 obviously those that pay out more to players. This gives 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. 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 obviously. 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.
Volatility in Slots Explained: A Complete Guide
When it comes to playing a slot game, there are numerous options both online and at a live casino. While many people hope to score some big winnings when heading to their favorite games, there are certain concepts to keep in mind that can make the experience better. Some of these may help players to determine their own approach to which games to play and what general games fit their own interests more. Volatility, also known as variance, is one of those concepts and refers to how often and how much, on average, that slot machine actually pays out. Volatility can help players at the casinos or on an online gaming platform. This article outlines what volatility is, why it matters, how to determine the volatility of a slot game and tips for playing high and low volatility slots. Keep reading to learn all about the concept of volatility in slots. 1 – What is Volatility in Slots? 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 – 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 – These machines obviously 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 – 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. IOn 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. 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 own individual 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 many frequent wins. Low variance – These players may not want to wait as long to cash in at least to some degree on a sloth, despite seeing smaller payouts over the long haul. This is also a good plan for players who have smaller bankrolls that want to make their money last longer. 3 – How to Determine the Volatility of a Slot Game Volatility can be a bit confusing and there is actually 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 give an indication of 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 actually 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 own reviews and experiences with various games. This can be a helpful way to determine a certain slots 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, it’s important that players 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 of time 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 in regard to 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 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 own 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
Mastering Slot Machine Stakes, Paylines, and Winning Strategies
Players new to dropping a few bucks into a slot machine or playing online may not be accustomed to some of the concepts of how to play and how the game functions. There may seem to be so much going on a certain game that some of the key aspects of playing may be a bit overwhelming. Knowing what stakes are available, how they are wagered on the machine, and how paylines work on a game may help clear up some of the confusion when it comes to wagering some cash on a slot. Today’s games often offer numerous betting limits and ways to win, so having a handle on this element can make the gaming experience more fun and alert you to that next big win. Keep reading to learn all about slot machine stakes and how a game’s paylines work. 1 – A look at slot machine stakes The great thing to know about today’s modern slots is that there are numerous options. Not just when it comes to game types and themes, but also when it comes to the amount a player can wager. That total bet or the amount wagered are known as the “betting limits” or “stakes.” Many games feature a minimum limit which can start at a single cent per payline (more on what that means below) and can go all the way up to as much as $5 per spin or more. The amount wagered is up to you and players should make sure they stay within their bankrolls so that their money can last. Some machines feature higher limits, with bigger limits often paying out a larger percentage of all money wagered back to players, known as RTP (return to player). But there are also much lower limits available either at a live or online casino. Free-to-play social gaming options also feature numerous limits, but this obviously makes use of virtual currency. Here are some quick definitions for some of these terms. Limits/Stakes – The amount a player can wager on a certain slot. High Limit Slots – Usually much higher than standard slots and often featured in an exclusive area of a casino. Paylines – These are the lines on which a player can win depending on how the reels line up. Payouts – This is the amount a player wins on each spin of the reels. 2 – How do paylines work? In some of the first slots, a line would be found across the front of the reels. If those bells or cherries lined up perfectly, the machine would pay out players in coins for a win. Certain symbols could pay more than others and those original machines made use of real mechanicals reels to determine a winning spin. Today’s machines use sophisticated computer technology to create random spins. The RNG (random number generator) actually determines the result as soon as a player hits the “spin” button. But for most players, those paylines represent whether they win or lose. As slots advanced, manufacturers moved to more than one payline. Mechanical reels advanced to three lines and beyond. Modern video slots have ramped up the concept of multiple paylines even more. While older slots may have had only a few horizontal paylines, today's slots feature paylines that can go numerous directions across the reels. Wild symbols, which can be substituted for other symbols on the reels, also make it possible to win in more ways across the paylines. These make it possible to see some wins when a certain symbol may not line up correctly but a wild symbol can serve to complete a winning spin. 3 – How do payouts work? A payout is the amount won on a certain spin. The total paid out varies depending on which symbols line up along the paylines. Certain symbols lining up pay out more than others depending on their rarity. Players who pay more credits or coins per line can also pay out more. Low rollers may want to stick to smaller limits to make their money last longer. And just because a player may be paying more than one payline doesn’t mean it’s a wise move in the long run. Playing at lower stakes may be the best way to make you bankroll last. The number of ways to win via the paylines can vary wildly depending on the game. Those with more paylines means players will have to wager on more paylines to take advantage of all these ways to win. Those with fewer paylines may save on the number of credits wagered per spin however. Here’s an example of two popular Jackpot Party games as an example of how a player can wager. Kronos: Father of Zeus Paylines: 20 Maximum wager: 600 credits (total) Maximum payout: 1,000 credits Quick Hit Wolf Mountain 96 Paylines: 243 Maximum wager: 10 Maximum payout: 5,000x the bet Notice that Koronos: Father of Zeus only features 20 paylines while Quick Hit Wolf Mountain 96 allows players to play as many as 243 lines. A player dropping one cent per line on Kronos is only gambling 20 cents per spin. This comes with fewer ways to win however. A Wolf Mountain player at one cent per payline is actually playing $2.43 per spin if he or she plays the maximum number of paylines. This game offers much more in the way of payouts, but will cost a player more per spin. Players have to balance the pros and cons of playing games with more paylines versus their own interest in seeing more winning opportunities at each session. The goal is to make some of those funds last longer so a player has a chance to find some wins along the way, hopefully some big ones. 4 – Other things to consider The great thing about modern slots is that you don’t have to be able to identify how all the symbols line up on the paylines to be rewarded with some winnings. After a spin all your wins will be displayed on the screen by the computer itself. This can often be finding wins on numerous paylines – or sometimes no wins at all, meaning moving on to the next spin. And despite finding a winning spin, depending on the symbols lining up on the reels a player may not actually win enough to make up for the amount wagered on a certain spin. For example, a player may wager one cent per line on the Quick Hit Wolf Mountain 96 game mentioned above. This equates to a total of $2.43 per spin. However, a player finding three wolves on the reels may only collect $0.40. This is a net loser, but if you find five symbols you’ll earn 80x your wager and 60x for four. Finding several wins on the paylines at once can certainly add to your bankroll. The opportunity to win on multiple paylines has been a major improvement to today’s slot games, whether playing in a live casino or on an online platform like Jackpot Party. 5 – Frequently asked questions What are stakes or limits on a slot? This is the amount a player wagers per spin of the reels. Players can choose to play for as little as one cent per line with the overall amount wagered depending on the number of paylines offered on a game and the amount played per line. What does the term “paylines” mean? These are the ways in which the symbols on the reels must line up to reward some winnings. Older games that featured real mechanical reels only featured a few paylines, often simply horizontally across the face of the reels. But today's games allow for numerous paylines that go in many different directions. This means more ways to win, but as noted above, more credits wagered per spin. What are some additional things that affect a player’s payouts? Wins depend on which symbols show up on the reels. Wild symbols can also be played interchangeably for winning symbols, allowing for winning paylines to be completed as these symbols substitute for other symbols on the reels. A losing spin may turn into a winner if a wild symbol positively completes a combination. Some symbols can also trigger other bonus games and other chances to win.
19 April, 2023
Beat the Odds: Your Essential Slots Payouts Guide
Beyond simply offering plenty of entertainment, slot machines offer a chance at a nice payout and that’s the overall goal for most players heading to a casino to play or even those looking for some action online. Line up those reels in just the right combinations and a payout will be heading your way. Players dream of hitting a major jackpot or even a big winning session. Slot payouts obviously vary from game to game, but having a general idea of how they work can make that slot machine session a bit of a better experience. This article offers you everything you might want to know about slot payouts. Slot machine payout schedules and paylines Players new to a slot machine may be a bit confused with so much going on – from spinning reels and the numerous symbols to bonus games and pay lines. There’s a lot to keep up with and it can all be a bit overwhelming. The good news is that today’s modern computerized games keep up with all the payouts and intricacies for you. However, having a general idea of what’s going on when that machine cranks up can add to your experience and help you know how your gaming session is going. Here are a few terms to become familiar with before dropping a few bucks into a game or playing slots online. Payout – This is the term used to describe the number of credits a player receives when the symbols on the machine line up in a certain winning combination. These can vary widely from small payouts that may not even equal the amount you bet on a spin all the way up to mega jackpots. Payline – These are the lines used across the front of the reels to determine winners. Most early machines only used a single payline across the front of the reels. Today’s games now offer numerous ways to win with pay lines often crisscrossing wildly on the reels. Having more pay lines offer players more ways to win. Pay Table – This is the table that displays how much a player can actually win when certain combinations appear on the reels. Players will find a table going from the lowest payouts at the bottom of the table rising to the largest jackpot payout at the top. These are also divided vertically by the amount bet from the left (the lowest) to right (the highest payout). The more a player bets per line, the larger the possible payout. Credits/Coin-in – This is the term used for the amount of money deposited into a machine. Your money is usually listed as credits somewhere on the machine, allowing you to track your wins and losses. Coin-in refers to the amount of money in a machine as well, although coins aren't really used in slots anymore. Ready to up your slots terminology game? Read the full article now! A player dropping some money in a machine has numerous options now when playing a slot game. You can determine the number of pay lines you’d like to play as well as the amount of bet per line. Some slot machines allow players to bet as little as one cent per line. With many lines in play, however, the total amount wagered can actually be much more than that. How and when does a slot machine payout? As noted above, slot payouts are based on how the reels line up but that itself is determined by the machine’s RNG (random number generator). The software inside the machine predetermines a random outcome each time you press the “spin” button. Today’s slots are completely computerized and no longer function based on mechanical inner workings. This ensures that every spin is completely random. Obviously, the odds are much longer for hitting the combinations with the largest payouts. Those lucky enough to hit wins on the top of the paytable can expect some major six-, seven-, and even eight-figure jackpots. There are a few myths that some players hold when it comes to payouts. Here’s a look at a few of those: A slot machine id “due” to pay off – This notion that a game hasn’t paid out in a while should pay off soon isn’t correct. A payout is based on the RNG and is completely random. A machine paid out recently so it won’t pay out again soon – Again the results of a spin are completely random. There’s no reason that a slot that recently paid out a nice amount won’t dial up another win soon. “Hot” and “cold” slots – The idea that slot machines payout based on a general outlook or certain disposition is also untrue. The RNG determines all payouts on modern machines and randomness rules the day. Which slot machines have the best payouts? Everyone playing a slot is hoping for a nice or maybe just a winning session. Payouts are based on the RNG, as noted earlier, but there are a few things to remember when it comes to trying to find a machine with a better chance of winning. A few key terms regarding this include: RTP (return to player) – This is the amount returned to a player in a certain game. Payout percentage – This is the percentage that a machine or a property itself pays back overall to players. Progressive jackpot – This is a jackpot awarded among machines linked together in a certain area or jurisdiction. These award the massive jackpots that can make major headlines. A higher RTP obviously means a player has a better chance of winning. Payout percentages offer some insight into how much money is being returned to players on a certain game. Some properties and individual games may get over 95%, meaning that the house is keeping, on average, only about 5% of all money put into machines. Those looking for a chance at a massive jackpot will want to play a progressive slot. A small amount is removed from each wager and funneled into the progressive jackpot pool. Those lucky enough to hit the best of winning spins will find massive payouts. However, it’s important to note that only those playing the max bet on most machines have an opportunity at the progressive jackpots. When it comes to paying out jackpots, not many beat the Wheel of Fortune line of slot machines. The games have paid out more than $3 billion since their launch in 1986. How to find the payout percentage on a slot machine Looking at the payout percentages of an individual game or property will help you find machines that may offer the best chance at booking a win. These are often easily available online and you can decide which games might be worth dropping a few dollars in. There are numerous online resources for checking out the payout percentages for casinos, individual slot machines, and even online slots. This allows players to determine which properties and games offer the best chance of winning. Here’s a look at some resources to check out: American Casino Guide – offers payout percentages for all U.S. states Compensation Advisory Partners – a detailed on using payout percentages Slot machine screen – some countries require payout percentages posted right on the machine’s screen Manufacturer websites – many slot developers post their games’ payout percentages right on their websites Beyond these some individual gaming commissions and control boards also track payout percentages and make them publicly available online. Online slot payouts Players looking for some slot play right from the comfort of their own homes also have some nice chances at some winnings. Some platforms offer numerous games, such as at Jackpot Party, and even progressive jackpots. Manufacturers are now moving beyond the casino floor and offering their titles in numerous formats including in real-money online gaming options, free-to-play gaming apps, and social media gaming options. “That’s where the world is trending because in iGaming, particularly in the United States, the land-based operators are getting digital licenses, and they want to provide their player's 360-degree access to the games that they have,” Scientific Games CEO Barry Cottle told the Wall Street Journal. Online slots offer numerous limits and gaming styles as well and you can play whenever you’d like without the hustle and bustle, travel expenses, and smoking that might be associated with a trip to the casino. Most of all the aspects involved with playing at a live casino also apply online. Many Payout percentages are also available for numerous real-money online slots as well. Those offering better payout percentages should be moved to the top of the list. Those not paying out very high may want to be disregarded. As at a brick-and-mortar casino, a little research may give you a much better shot at cashing in. Frequently Asked Questions What determines how a player wins and gets a payout on a slot machine? The symbols and paylines are used to visually represent the result of the random number generator’s predetermined “spin” result. Players will see certain symbols lined up in winning combinations after pressing the “spin” button. What is the pay table? These can be found on a slot and show what combinations pay out and to what amount. The table also shows varying payouts based on the number of credits or coins bet per line. What are payout percentages? This is the percent of all coin-in (money wagered in machines) that is paid back out to players. A higher payout percentage either at a property or on specific machines offers a player a better chance of winning.
6 March, 2023
How Do Slot Tournaments Work – A Complete Guide
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. Keep reading to learn everything you may want to know about slot tournaments in this complete guide. What is a slot tournament? 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. 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 help. 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. 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. And 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. 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.
9 February, 2023
5 Tips on How to Win at Video Slot Machines
Slot machines can certainly be fun and offer some nice entertainment, but most players would love to walk away as a winner. Whether playing in a casino or using a mobile phone at home, finding some winning spins on the video slot reels is always fun. Scoring a nice jackpot or big winning session makes for a nice day at the casino or online gaming platform. Paying attention to how a player receives a payout and what the symbols mean will help when looking for a slot win. How much a machine or casino pays back to players is also important in winning some cash from a slot machine. There are some other things to keep in mind when trying to find some wins. This article offers takes a look at all these aspects of slot play and more, guiding readers on how to collect some wins when playing video slots. Keep reading to learn everything about winning at video slots. 1 – Plan for Your Slot Play When heading to the casino, it's a good idea to have at least a bit of a plan. Set your limits and don't wager more than you can afford to lose simply as entertainment. Being smart can help offset major losses from getting too carried away. A few key things to remember: Set a budget and stick to it – Trips to the ATM machine can be costly in the long run and lead to bigger than expected losses. Don’t drink too much – Overindulging in cocktails can lead to wagering more than you planned. Drink if you like but beware – excessive drinks can lead to excessive losses. Join the rewards club – If you’re going to play free slots, you might as well take advantage of casinos rewards. Comps, such as free meals, rooms, and other prizes, are based on the amount played, but don’t play strictly to earn rewards. These are extras, but they are worth cashing in on. One key part of shooing the right slot is to play within your limits. But also pick a slot that interests you and offers a chance to make your budget last longer. However, don’t plan to solely stay at one machine. If you’re losing, move somewhere else and try out another game. 2 – Choose a Video Slot Game that Suits You Another important idea is to choose games and stakes that are within your range. Higher limits usually mean a slightly better payout percentage, but don’t play high limits if you can't afford to. Play within your means and don’t be a quarter player if you’re more of a penny-per-payline player. Staying within your means can help players survive the ups and downs that go with slot play. Hit a losing streak? Take a break or grab something to eat. Get away from the machines for a bit and give it a shot later. Score a nice win? Pocket some of that money as winnings for that next trip to the casino. Also, pay attention to a game’s RTP (return to player), also referred to as payout percentage. This statistic offers players a look at how much of the money going into a casino is heading back out to players in the form of winnings. For example, if a casino pays back $96 out of every $100, that property has a 96% return to player or payout percentage. Casinos’ RTP can vary widely from low in the 70s all the way up to 96-97% in some really great circumstances. RTP may vary by locality as well and also differs depending on the machine. Much of this information is available online and some game-specific data can also often be found on the manufacturer’s own website. Some online casinos actually offer higher RTP than live casinos. Having a general idea on some nice machines with excellent RTP can offer players a better chance at winning on video slots. 3 –Know How the Payouts Work It's easy to simply press the “Spin” button and see what develops. But having an idea as to how a video slot game pays out is a good idea. Here are a few terms that one might want to keep in mind when heading to the casino. Pay Table – This is a table found on the machine that allows players to see what symbols payoff and at what stakes. The top of the table shows the maximum payoff for the best symbols. The bottom shows the minimum payoff and the symbols that need to show up on the reels. The Pay Table also shows payouts based on how many credits are played per line. The higher amount played, the greater the payout. Some games offer even bigger payouts for those playing the max credits. Jackpot – This is larger than normal payout and offers a chance at some big payouts. Many think of jackpot as a life-changing amount of money, but smaller jackpots are also possible. Grabbing some smaller jackpots along the way can make for a nice winning session. Progressive jackpot – These are games that feature shared prize pools among numerous machines across a certain area or jurisdiction. When players think of those life-changing jackpots, these are the video slots that reward those massive payouts. These games usually require players to pay at the maximum stakes, but also reward nice payouts below the mega jackpot level. Hitting it big on a video slot can bring plenty of excitement. Knowing how a payout is awarded can go a long way toward making that experience a bit more fun. Check out how to read a slot machine for more information 4 – Recognize the Symbols That Pay on Video Slots Having an idea of which symbols pay out on a video slot can make for some fun anticipation and be extremely rewarding when those lucky icons do roll up on the video reels. Symbols vary by game and some vintage icons are still regularly part of the mix such as playing cards and card suits, 7s, clovers, fruits, diamonds, and others. Slot developers also use special symbols that signify even bigger payouts and special features. These are what slot players are hoping to see line up on the reels when taking a spin. Some of those include: Wilds – These can be represented by various icons on a video slot depending on the machine. Wild symbols can act as any symbol on the reelers, bringing a player more opportunities at winning combinations. This can come in handy when other lucrative symbols make an appearance and a Wild just makes some nice connecting symbols across numerous paylines. Scatters – These are usually highly sought-after symbols that trigger klarger winning opportunities such as bonus games and free spins. These can be critical extra opportunities to rack up some winnings without paying to spin the reels again. These additional bonus games also offer opportunities at even bigger scores, such as minor and major jackpots. Bonus Games – As the name implies these are bonus opportunities triggered by lining up scatters in a certain way. Players are then directed to an additional game that may be completely separate from the main game. This could include extras like spinning a wheel for extra payouts or picking a card among several to reveal a varying prize amount. Video slot developers have gotten highly creative with these bonus games in recent years and these often include enhanced sound and graphics to ramp up the experience even more. Free Spins – These are similar to Bonus Games but involve a certain number of chances to spin the reels. These spins can rack up plenty of wins for players without even having to add credits to the machine. Some games allow players to earn even more sins during this bonus time. Some of the higher payouts and bonuses are often more likely to show up during this time as well. Respins – This is a newer feature found more on video slots in recent years and can add to the excitement of playing at a casino or online. These occur when a certain symbol makes an appearance on the reels. That symbol (and this goes for more than one of these symbols) then locks in place and the reels continue to spin a few more times, offering players the chance at additional winnings when more symbols show up. This can usually last a few spins and doesn't require a player adding more credits for these extra respins. Check out the slots terminology article for more information. 4 – Look Deeper at Payout Percentages Choosing locations, games, and properties that offer larger percentages of payouts to players can also help a player win at video slots. Perout percentage is the term for the total amount of coin-in that casinos payout to players. These statistics can often be found online and in some gaming commissions in certain jurisdictions. Some slot companies also publish the payout percentages for their own games right on their websites. Payout percentages can often be found for: Jurisdictions – Payout statistics may be available such as states, cities, etc. Casinos – Payout percentages are often available by individual casinos. Games – Payout percentages are often available for individual games. Varying stakes – Higher limit games often feature higher payout percentages and these can even be found via public sources on the Internet. Higher payout percentages, such as 90% or greater, can mean better chances at actually finding a nice score or event sizable jackpot. This percentage means 90% or more of all money into the slot machines is heading back out to players. Perhaps you’ll be one of those lucky enough to see your bank filled with credits after hitting a nice combination of symbols on that next night out at the video slots. 6 – Frequently Asked Questions What’s a video slot? These are slot games that make use of modern technology instead of actual mechanical reels. Manufacturers make use of modern graphics and sound effects. Many games mimic the spin of traditional reels, but have greatly expanded as well with numerous paylines, extra reels, and other bells and whistles such as bonus games. What are paylines? These are lines on a slot where symbols can line up to form a winning combination. Older games often featured a single line across the front of the traditional three reels. However, modern video slots often feature multiple ways to win with paylines seemingly in every direction across the reels. Luckily, video slots keep up with all these winning combinations on their own and display them after every spin. What can players look for on a video slot’s reels to win? Key symbols offer a better chance at payouts than more common symbols. When rarer symbols line up in winning combinations on the paylines, expect bigger payouts. Other symbols offer even bigger opportunities to win. Scatter symbols can trigger Bonus Games and Wilds serve as substitutes for other symbols, bringing additional opportunities for winning combinations. Free spins also allow players to spin the reels a certain number of times without adding any credits for each spin. What is payout percentage or RTP? RTP means “return to player” and offers a look at how much of the money paid in to a casino’s slots actually gets paid back out to players. Higher RTP, also known as payout percentages, in the 90% or higher range is considered a nice number for players. Higher payout percentages offer players a better chance at a winning session when playing video slots.
31 January, 2023