Can players tell if a slot machine is about to hit? While many players believe this, the truth is that players have no impact on when a slot machine may pay out some winnings. But players (and casinos and slot developers) still focus on ideas of luck and good fortune to keep players dreaming about that one big win and also to add to the fun of the experience.
Keep reading to learn more about this slot machine myth, the thoughts behind it, and the realities of how slot machines pay out.
The Myth of Slots ‘Ready to Hit’
Many players have a favorite slot or certain types of slots. They may feel these pay out more than others on the casino floor. Other players may search for a slot or two that haven’t paid out in a while. They may say these slots are “due” or “ready” to pay out.
Players may spend lots of time determining which of these games they should take a seat at. They often mistakenly believe they can predict a payout based on observation. But only the random number generator (RNG) determines a slot’s results and taking the time and effort “looking for a winner” is an irrelevant exercise.
The RNG determines results are random. No human input matters when playing these games.
“It is impossible to exaggerate the importance of randomization,” Retail Technology Hub reports. “A complicated mechanism known as a random number generator determines the outcome of each spin, which is completely independent of the preceding spin. This implies that it is impossible to forecast when or how much a machine will pay out. Despite this, a lot of individuals continue to think that there are methods for winning.”
‘Hot’ and ‘Cold’ Slots
To go along with the above thinking, some slots may be said to be “hot” – paying out more often than others. Other slots may be seen as “cold” – paying out much more infrequently than these perceived hot slots. These are both myths and slot payouts are completely random.
While it can be rewarding to find some nice wins on a slot, that doesn’t mean the machine is “hotter” than any other slot on the casino floor. A machine also isn’t “cold” when you can’t find a win. The RNG is solely responsible
Despite what some players believe, RNG ensures that each spin is independent, making concepts like “hot” or “cold” irrelevant.
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The Hard Reality
Modern slots make use of algorithms and high-tech software to ensure random results. There's nothing a player can do to affect the outcome – whether spinning in certain patterns, using lucky charms, “timing” the machines, or any other strategy. However, there are a few aspects of slot play to keep in mind when playing that may help when it comes to wins versus losses.
RTP (return to player) – This is the percentage of the money played on slot machines that is paid back to players. A casino or slot that an RTP of 92% pays back 92 cents out of every dollar. The higher the RTP, the better the chance the player will at least see some of their cash back in winnings. These figures can often be found online, via gaming regulators in some cases, and even at slot developers' websites.
Volatility (or variance) – This refers to the risk-versus-reward factors that come with playing slots. Games with low volatility pay out more regularly but at smaller amounts. Those with higher volatility pay out less frequently but in higher amounts. Slot volatility figures can often be found online and volatility may help you determine which games are best for you – higher but fewer payouts versus more smaller payouts over time.
Bankroll management – Play at stakes you can afford and try to make that bankroll last by playing more slowly, taking breaks, and even changing machines occasionally.
Conclusion
Players may think they have something to do with how and when a slot machine pays out. However, the RNG is solely responsible for the results of hitting the spin button. In fact, the reels simply represent the results determined by the RNG. It’s important to focus on RTP and bankroll management rather than trying to predict payouts.
While you can't predict a slot machine's payout, understanding factors like RTP and volatility can help you make smarter choices.
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