A modern slot machine is a feast for the senses with incredible visuals, superior sounds, interactivity, and so much more. The games are the backbone of the gaming industry and players can also now get in on the action for real money or for free online as well. Some of those playing these games may even think there are certain things they can do to tip the odds in their favor, such as a certain way to press the button on this machine.
But is this actually true? Can a certain slot machine button sequence help determine winning spins? Those who believe this are mistaken and this article takes a look at this subject in depth to answer these types of questions.
Keep reading to learn all about slot machine button sequences and whether they make a difference when playing these games.
Buttons on a Slot Machine
For the uninitiated, a slot machine may look like a complex device. There are varying buttons – sometimes on the cabinet and sometimes simply on the screen. There are a few key buttons or icons on a game for a player to make note of including:
Lines to bet – These can vary by machine, but players use these to select the number of paylines they want active during a spin. Many players simply play the maximum number of paylines.
Wager button – This is what a player uses to select how much to wager per payline.
Spin button– This is the button used to set the reels in motion. Slot machines originally used a lever to get the mechanical reels inside the machine spinning. Now machines aren’t simply mechanical, so this is no longer necessary.Cash-out – This button is used to retrieve a player’s funds from the machine. This is now usually a ticket voucher that can be redeemed for cash in the casino. Online platforms cash out a player by sending the funds back to his player bank. Free-to-play slot platforms send any virtual coins on the machine back to the player bank as well.
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The RNG at Work
Some players have the mistaken belief that how they initiate the reels via the buttons on the cabinet or on-screen can determine the outcome of a slot spin. This can involve patterns of betting, numbers of active paylines, and even how hard to press the buttons.
RNG stands for Random Number Generator, a specialized algorithm that constantly generates sequences of random numbers, ensuring that each spin on a slot machine is entirely independent of previous or future outcomes. This continuous generation happens at incredible speed, often creating billions of potential results per second. In modern slots, RNG guarantees fairness by eliminating patterns and making each spin completely unpredictable. No player actions, like pressing buttons or using specific sequences, can influence the results determined by the RNG.
Some players actually believe that slapping the slot machine buttons affects how a machine pays out. Popular slot streamer Brian Christopher made note of this myth in an entry on his blog.
“Slot machines do not have feelings,” he writes on the BCSlots website. “They don't care if you win or lose, whether you're sad, mad, angry or glad. If you caress the button softly, talk sweet nothings to it, or simply slap it silly – it will provide you with a random response: WIN or LOSE. So slapping it has zero effect on the machine, especially when the outcome has already been decided.”
On modern slots, the random number generator (RNG) determines the result of a spin. This is a software application that runs constantly to determine a result randomly. The RNG runs through billions of numbers to register a slot result. Players can at least expect a fair betting experience (although there is still a hefty house edge).
The simple fact is that a winning or losing result is based solely on the RNG and using a sequence of buttons on the machine has no bearing on how a machine will pay out.
The House Edge
When playing slots, players must realize that the casino has a major edge – as much as 20% on some games – and nothing a player does can overcome that.
The RNG solely determines winning spins and players have a significant uphill climb to win – especially when it comes to scoring one of those jackpots reaching into the hundreds of thousands of dollars or millions of dollars.
That doesn’t mean that players can’t win. Many players walk away with significant winnings each day all around the world. But it’s important to note that players face a significant house edge when playing these games.
No button sequence, lucky charm, time of day, slot location, or sending the game your “positive energy” is going to change that. A slot pays out simply based on the high-tech, computer's inner workings.
Some of the largest slot jackpots in history have been triggered by a single spin, with no influence from specific button sequences. The biggest win on a slot machine was a staggering $39.7 million payout from a Megabucks slot in Las Vegas.
Strategies to Win
While players can’t alter a game or change how the RNG pays out, there are some things to remember when playing to have a better chance of winning. Here’s a look at a few of those strategies.
Take it slow – Making your bankroll last longer makes for a more enjoyable experience. Blowing through your cash isn’t fun and can cut a trip to the casino short – or leave a player spending more money than planned.
Play within your budget– Only gamble money that you can afford to use and isn’t needed for other critical needs. This also goes for the stakes you play. Wagering more than you can afford can sap your bankroll and leave you without funds to play if a losing streak sets in.Learn the RTP – This stands for “return to player” and is the amount of money wagered in a slot that is returned to players. For example, a machine (or group of machines) may be set to pay back 92 cents out of every dollar back to players, a 92% RTP. The higher the RTP, the better chance for players to get some of their money back. Many slot and casino RTPs can be found online.
Break things up – Sitting at a slot machine and just spinning and spinning may not always be a great idea. When playing slots and hitting a losing streak, go take a walk, grab a drink, take a nap, or do something else for a bit. Those slots aren’t going anywhere and you can live to fight another day – hopefully with more luck.
Play for free – Some online slot platforms allow players to spin the reels without any real money involved. This can be a great way to play from anywhere, learn how slots work, and have some fun.
Conclusion
Some players believe that there are certain button sequences or movements that players can make to beat the slots and secure more consistent winnings. Like the notion of “hot” and “cold” slots, this is a myth.
Players have very little to do with how a slot pays out, whether playing in a live casino or online. The random number generator (RNG) produces a random result, making for a fair game. Hitting certain buttons in certain ways has no bearing on winning and losing.
A better plan to win is to play within your bankroll, not play stakes that you can’t afford, and get away from the games when you hit a losing streak. These ideas can also help players practice responsible gaming practices.
FAQs
Is there a certain button sequence on a slot that can ensure more winnings?
No, the random number generator solely controls the results of a spin. It’s a myth that certain button sequences have any effect on a slot.
Can I turn the odds in my favor on a slot machine?
No, players face a significant house edge when playing slots and there’s no way to get around that.
If I play for a while and don't win, can I expect to see some winnings eventually?
There is no guarantee of any winnings as there is a significant house edge when it comes to slots. The RNG alone decides the result of a slot play. Staying within your bankroll is a major key to playing slots and making your money last longer.
