slots strategy

What are the odds of winning on a slot machine? That’s a question many gamblers have when heading to their local casinos. Most slot players long to win big, perhaps even scoring one of those massive multi-million dollar jackpots – everyone can dream. Slots certainly come with a house edge, but players around the world regularly book some winning sessions and even win some nice jackpots in the process. Slots are a form of entertainment, but for those to win, there are some major considerations to remember when it comes to the odds involved with slot play – whether in a live or online environment. Keep reading to learn all about the odds of winning when playing slots and some key concepts to remember. Significance of Understanding Slot Machine Odds As a “house-backed” game, it’s important to realize that playing slots is pure gambling. There are no traditional strategic advantages that players can utilize to tip the odds in their favor as found in a few other games. For example, poker players can utilize skills to play against other players in a casino rather than playing the casino itself. Savvy players can gain an edge over some of the other players at the table. Blackjack is a game that the casino that also traditionally has an edge, albeit a small one if a player finds favorable rules and utilizes perfect basic strategy. However, players who can successfully use a card-counting strategy can tip some of those odds in their favor and win in the long run. This just isn’t possible when playing slots. The house will always have the edge and it’s important to realize that. Budget your gambling bankroll accordingly and realize that any cash for slot play should be seen as entertainment money. In short, the average slot machine comes with a house edge of anywhere from 4% to more than 10%, according to CalculateMyChances.com. But as the site notes: “Slots are easy to play. All that's required of you is to pull the lever or press a button. The chances of winning money on slots vary depending on the type of machine you play on.” Here are a few things to remember about the odds of winning at slots: Penny slots are the most popular games but come with the longest odds most of the time – often with a double-digit advantage for the casino. On the other hand, higher-stakes slots have the best odds – often below a 5% house edge. But those odds are still in the casino’s favor, so don’t chase higher stakes for that reason alone. This can mean going beyond your bankroll. Online casinos tend to offer players the best odds of winning at all levels with a higher return to player (RTP) generally overall. Platforms like Jackpot Party and QuickHitSlots.com allow players to experience the fun of slot play without wagering any real money and can be a nice alternative to real-money gaming. Discover our top slot games below, or tap here for all the free slots at Jackpot Party: Slot Machine Basics Since their invention in the late 1800s, slot machines have remained a unique part of the gaming industry. While modern technology has made betting using wagering devices much simpler, the slot machine was the first device that allowed a player to make a bet, see the game play out, and then pay out any winnings without needing a person. Early machines did this all without the advantage of modern technology. Those games made use of mechanical reels and inner workings to determine winning spins and payout winners. A player simply pulled a lever to activate the reels. These would then come to a stop and the player watched how the symbols lined up in certain combinations on the paylines. Winning combinations would then deliver a payout for the lucky player. Today’s games make use of computer technology and software to determine the result of a casino spin. The game’s random number generator (RNG) determines the result as soon as a player hits the spin button. Slots are now divided into three main categories: Classic slots – These are the traditional games that make use of mechanical inner workings to accept bets, spin the reels, and pay out winners. Most used coins and the term “slot machine” derives from the original “slot” used to insert a coin. Video slots – These are modern slots that no longer feature mechanical reels and instead make use of computer technology with all the action playing out on a video screen. Many of today’s video slots feature high-definition screens, advanced sound systems, and unique bonus games, themes, and narratives. Progressive slots – These are also modern slots but allow slot fans to play for mega jackpots that often make news headlines. These payouts can reach millions of dollars and deliver some real life-changing money. These also tend to be played at higher stakes with players to meet a certain stakes threshold to qualify for these progressive jackpots. The Role of RTP (Return to Player) Just because the house always has an edge, doesn’t mean there aren’t a few things players shouldn’t keep in mind to better their chances of a winning night at the casino. A little knowledge about the games and knowing what you’re up against might help offer the best chance at a winning session. A critical part of that is the Return to Player (RTP). This term is related to the percentage of dollars wagered in a slot or casino that is paid back to players. For example, over the long run, a certain slot machine may pay back 92 cents out of every dollar that is wagered into that type of machine. This equated to a 92% RTP, which is actually a nice RTP for a clot in a live casino. A game’s RTP can offer a look at your likelihood of getting some of your money back or booking a winning session. Games with higher RTPs return more money to players. Some online slots pay back even more to players, with RTPs often at 95% or more. An RTP can also be applied to: Individual casinos Individual types of machines A broad area or region Differing levels of stakes wagered Games with higher stakes tend to have higher RTPs. So how does a person find out about RTPs? Many slot manufacturers list the RTPs of their games right on their websites. Some gaming commissions also make this type of information available for individual casinos as well. Many websites are also available that can help players determine the RTP of individual games. A little research can go a long way to giving you a chance at winning. Have a few games in mind that you’re considering checking out? A quick search online will often help you find the RTP for that game. It’s worth giving it a shot to become a more educated player while also helping to find some better RTP alternatives for that next trip to the casino or when playing online. Understanding the House Edge As noted, slots come with a pretty large house edge. These aren’t games in which a player can tip the edge in their favor. Casinos generally aren’t in the business of losing money and designing casino games so that they win in the long run – that’s how the casinos make a profit, build fancy hotels, pay employees, etc. However, some players do win, and some even score jackpots. If players never won, most wouldn’t bother visiting a casino at all. But the chance of winning and having some fun keeps players coming back. Because of this, slots should be seen as entertainment. Don’t count on walking away a winner. Budget your funds accordingly and don’t wager money that you can’t afford to lose. You know the house has an edge on those slots before even taking that first spin. Consider a night out just a fun excursion with friends that may include the possibility of some winnings. Those who don’t want to give up the house edge may not want to wager any real money at all. In that case, some free-play options are worth checking out. These offer the fun of spinning the reels without spending a single cent. Dispelling Common Slot Machine Myths Building on the idea that casinos have an advantage when it comes to slot play, there are a few myths that need to be dispelled when it comes to playing slots. First, as noted, you can’t turn the tables on the casinos and the house will always have an edge. This is just a fact to embrace and the RNG alone is what determines wins and losses. A few other myths of slot play include: Hot & cold slots – Only the RNG determines whether a spin is a winner or a loser. Some slots may pay out back to back while at the same time going long periods without making any major payouts. The RNG alone delivers completely random payouts and not the whims of a machine. Time matters – Some people believe slots pay out better at certain times of the day or on certain days of the week. This is also a fallacy and players don’t need to consult their watches, calendars, or mobile phones when trying to determine when to play. All payouts are random. That’s my lucky machine – No it’s not. Many people think they have a “lucky” machine because the player may have won at a certain machine a couple of times. But this is all random and this winning player just happened to be in the right place at the right time. At other times, and probably eventually for this winner, the same machine may go a long time without rewarding any major payouts. Slow turnarounds – Some may believe that once a machine has paid out a substantial amount the machine is programmed to go on a dry spell. The RNG still applies and the same machine could award another nice jackpot quickly or take a bit to pay out again. Remember, it’s all random. There are no doubt other myths or beliefs players might have regarding slot payouts, but it’s important to remember that the odds are in the casino's favor and all payouts are random. That lucky rabbit foot may add some fun or nice mental vibes, but ultimately, everything is up to the random number generator. Calculating Slot Machine Odds Whether you’re a math genius or simply spinning some reels on a slot, having a general idea about the odds and probability of winning might offer some insight into the likelihood of winning. A simple examination of the general math involved offers a look at your chances. The Cullen College of Engineering at the University of Houston took a look at how the odds of a slot are calculated and how a casino grabs an edge. “Indeed, a patent granted to the Norwegian mathematician Inge Telnaes in 1984 transformed the gambling industry,” the study notes. “Prior to Telnaes' invention, slot machines were essentially mechanical devices. Besides being difficult to tune and maintain, mechanical slot machines suffered from an essential problem: Let's look at a machine with three reels, each with 12 symbols, with one of those 12 symbols being a cherry. “The likelihood of getting three cherries, and winning the jackpot, is 1 in 1,728. If the casino wants to make money, the jackpot payout should be, say $1,700 on a $1 bet. That does not seem attractive by today's standards. However, the only way to increase the payout is to decrease the chances of hitting a jackpot.” This points to how the casino has an edge in payouts and further reduces the player’s chances of winning when adding jackpot payouts as well. “Adding another reel is a possibility,” the college adds. “For instance, adding a fourth reel in the previous example would get us to a jackpot of about $20,000. But people do not like machines with more reels — they intuitively, and rightfully, feel that extra reels diminish their chance of winning. Another possibility is to put more symbols on each reel. But the astronomical jackpots you see in casinos today would then require truly enormous machines.” Video slots now allow for even more reels and winning combinations, so the idea of adding extra reels may be a bit dated. However, the study is a great example of how casinos make their profits on slots and gain an advantage over players. As in most casino games, the house doesn’t pay out the true odds of a winning spin. Slots have now become the biggest drivers of casino revenue. Those who want to check out the odds of winning based on their play and tendencies may want to use a slot calculator. These can calculate various variables to determine your odds of winning. Some of the data these calculators take into account include: Bet per spin Pace of play Return to player Bankroll Volatility Those looking to see their odds of winning on a certain slot can easily input all this information. For a nice user-friendly slot calculator, click here. Strategies to Improve Your Odds Now that you have an idea about the odds involved with playing slots, what can a player do to make for a more entertaining night out and help at least bring a better chance of winning? The first critical thing is to make sure you have the right bankroll to match the stakes you’d like to play. Don’t wager above your head and see your bankroll spent too quickly. Higher-stakes slots may pay out at better odds, but it doesn’t matter if you don’t have any bankroll left to play. See more on responsible gaming below, but these ideas are also important to make your cash last longer. Here are a few other concepts to keep in mind. Take regular breaks – This helps divide some of those sessions up and helps avoid draining your funds quickly. Don’t be in a rush – Spinning too quickly, such as using autoplay, can drain your bankroll quickly as well. The slots aren’t going anywhere so chat with friends, grab a beverage, and enjoy the ambiance a bit. Know when to fold’em – Just as Kenny Rogers sang in the classic poker song “The Gambler,” it’s important to know when enough is enough. Don’t throw good money after bad – and don’t go to the ATM. Live to fight another day. Pick the right machines – Do some research and find a few machines with better RTPs. Stay on those machines for better odds at winning. Play for free – Don't want to lose any money? Enjoy some of the fun, bonus games, cool graphics, and interesting themes by taking advantage of free-to-play slot platforms like Jackpot Party and QuickHitSlots.com for a chance at some fun with no real money on the line at all. Pay attention to volatility – The concept of volatility can also make a difference when it comes to the odds of winning a slot. Slots with a low volatility pay out more often, but these may be smaller. Those who enjoy regular payouts and plenty of action may want to play these games. Higher volatility slots pay out larger sums but less often. These games often include progressive slots as well, paying out larger amounts but often requiring players to wager more per spin to qualify for these larger payouts. The odds will never be in your favor when hitting the slots, but having a few strategies in mind may give you a better chance at winning. Make note of these concepts to make your bankroll last longer and hopefully rack up a few bucks. Responsible Gambling Practices As noted, playing slots responsibly is a major key when heading to a casino or when playing online. Here are a few signs that someone may have a problem with gambling: Wagering money you can’t afford to lose. Chasing losses with other bets. Not being able to concentrate when not gambling. A preoccupation with gambling and loss of interest in other hobbies or family. Hiding the amount of money you’re betting or denying you have a problem. Fractured relationships. Stealing money to keep betting. The good news is that there is help available. Many state gaming commissions also offer free counseling and services for those who think they might have a problem. Many countries and states also have problem gambling groups that can also help. There are many resources available for those who need some help and it’s worth checking them out. Realistic Expectations and Enjoyment As noted, the odds will be against you whether playing slots in a live casino or for real money online. It’s important to have reasonable expectations when playing. The house always has an edge and there’s nothing players can do to change that. Therefore, think of slot play as a form of entertainment. Don’t expect to hit that seven-figure jackpot or even book a winning session every time you hit a casino. Instead, enjoy some of what the outing has to offer: Spending some time with friends. Enjoying some nice meals and drinks. Some quick relaxing fun when playing online (not to mention the savings of having to travel to a casino destination). Taking in other interesting activities and events while on a vacation, such as a day at the spa. Another important thing to remember is not to give away a nice win back to the casinos. Hit a nice score? Put a big chunk of that in your pocket or the hotel safe and don’t get it back out to wager. Take a good win and enjoy some of that cash – those wins are too good to pass up. When considering winnings, it’s also key to have limited expectations. Too often players are out seeking that giant score but perhaps have more modest goals. Instead of hoping for a 1,000% return, instead, shoot for a 10-25% win. When you reach that, try taking a break and enjoying those extra bucks in your pocket. Step-by-Step Guide to Understanding Slot Machine Odds Ready for a trip to the casino for some slot play or looking to play online, here are a few quick tips to remember. Set a bankroll and don’t go over it. Realize that the casino always has an edge. Players can’t tip the odds in their favor. Consider slots solely a form of entertainment. Set some winnings aside as you play. Research RTPs so that you’ll have the best odds of winning. Practice responsible gaming and don’t go to the ATM. Play slowly to make your bankroll last longer. Don’t play above your means even if higher-stakes games have better odds. Consider free-to-play options like Jackpot Party and QuickHitSlots.com Slot machines can be a fun way to pass some time with a shot at some winnings along the way. Have fun but be smart and don’t overdo it. Conclusion Many gamblers love the idea of dropping a few bucks in a slot machine and seeing those reels spin. It can be a great way to spend some time with friends, and today’s slot manufacturers have designed games for almost every taste of interest. However, unlike games like poker or counting cards in blackjack, the odds are always in the casino’s favor. There are some critical things players can do to make the experience more enjoyable and bring a better chance to win. Return to player (RTP) is a crucial figure that shows your chances of winning. A machine's volatility also plays a role in how often some credits will hit your player bank. Take your time, make that bankroll last, gamble responsibly, and have modest expectations. A day at the casino or online for some slots can be a lot of fun.

A roomful of slot players is hitting the “spin” button as fast as possible as the video reels whirl. There are plenty of smiles and lightning-fast fingers as the action continues. A clock ticks down and the end of the session soon comes to an end with players gauging their own total against the other competitors in the room. A few have scored enough to move on to another round as some major prizes await the winners. This isn’t the scene of a typical night out at the casinos, these players are locked in battle in a slot machine tournament. These events pit numerous slot players against each other and have become much more popular over the last few years, with casinos around the country embracing these fun events. But there may be a few ways to rise to the top when competing in a slot tournament. Keep reading to learn some slot tournament strategy and tips as well as plenty of the ins and outs of these events.. Understanding Slot Tournaments Slot tournaments can be a fun alternative to traditional slot play. For those who are competitive, these events also add some entertaining elements that see players battling other players with the hopes of winning a nice award. Rather than choosing varying slots on their own, players in a slot tournament have a certain period to accrue as many winnings as possible. These players can then win a top prize if they beat all the other players in the event. Some slot tournaments may feature several rounds. Players hope to advance through these rounds with a chance to play for the grand prize. Many casinos often reward players with the chance to compete in a tournament and may put up some major awards for the winners. Some of the benefits of playing a slot tournament can include: A fun and competitive event An added challenge beyond a traditional slot experience Big prizes can be on the line Loyal casino players may be given the chance for free Online slot tournament options are available as well on some platforms Some casinos offer twin tournaments, meaning players may compete in two tournaments over a weekend. Others may offer players a few chances, such as three rounds, with the best three scores added together to determine winners. Whatever the format, these events offer a fun afternoon playing some slots with some nice potential winnings on the line. Preparing for Success When heading to a slot tournament, practice responsible gaming as you would with any other type of gambling. Make sure the entry fee isn’t money that you need for other important bills or needs. Look for tournaments that fall within your bankroll. Also, don’t have expectations of always winning these events. Slots make use of an RNG, so results will always be random. Those who enjoy these events should look for casinos where they are usually offered. Some properties favor these types of events to reward players and may also regularly feature them as part of their gaming menu. Use a player’s card when playing at the casinos to earn a shot in the tournaments and also ask about the regular schedule to jump in the action. Some tournaments allow players to rebuy into an event if they get eliminated. If the buy-in is low enough, it might be worth jumping back in the action giving you more opportunities to win. But weigh the fee involved against your overall chance of winning some prize money. Sometimes it might not be worth the effort, so plan when it comes to budgeting any rebuys in a tournament. “Slot tournaments are highly competitive, entertaining, and thrilling competitions,” PlayToday notes. “They take place all over the world and the winners, as well as other high-ranking players, can win big prizes. Joining a slot tournament is easy and inexpensive, but you need to put effort into some preparation if you want to improve your chances of winning.” Browse our top-rated slot games below, or tap here for all the free slots at Jackpot Party: In-Tournament Strategies Ready to get in the action of a slot tournament? There are some key things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to realize that the result of a slot spin is based on the game’s random number generator (RNG). Wins are completely random and there is no getting around that the casino always has an edge. However, there are a few strategies to keep in mind. Speed and efficiency – Remember that in slot tournaments you’re competing against the other players in the tournament, not just hoping for winnings here and there. With a time limit, players will want to spin those reels as fast as possible. Don’t wait, just keep hitting “spin” to accrue as many as possible Collect more bonuses – This comes along with speed and efficiency, hopefully delivering more bonus games and free spins in the process. These extra winning opportunities can really add up and vault up the standings. You can't necessarily make these show up, but keeping those reels spinning offers a better chance to make that happen. “A player is striving to hit the more valuable combinations, not that they have any control to make that happen in most cases,” Anthony Curtis, publisher of LasVegasAdvisor.com, tells Casino Player magazine. Stay focused – Along those same lines, keep focused on the task at hand. Checking out other players’ results, drinking a cocktail, or chit-chatting can slow down your spinning. While normal trips to a casino may make a bankroll last longer by playing slowly, the goal of a slot tournament is to get in as many spins as possible. Play the maximum – Note: only play at this level if you can really afford it and it falls within your bankroll – irresponsible gaming isn’t advised. When you do play at higher levels and find some winning combinations, you’ll want those to register at the highest amounts on the pay table. With limited time, there’s no time to play small ball. Manage your bankroll – Just as in any type of gaming, budget accordingly when playing slot tournaments. Look for events that fit within your range. Make sure you’re not using cash that you can’t afford to use. Some casinos even offer “freeroll” slot tournaments for players who regularly visit and play at the property. These are worth taking advantage of and don't even require you to necessarily spend any money. Slot Tournament Etiquette The great thing about a slot tournament is the fun involved – with lots of smiles and laughs all around. These are simply entertaining events with a chance to win some real cash. Many players get to know those around them and recognize faces if they play regularly in the same events. “Players form friendships with other tournament players and a tournament is an opportunity for them to get together,” Curtis says. The events are pretty easy to play, so enjoy some of the camaraderie involved. Bad sportsmanship doesn’t have a place in these types of events, and congratulating winners can spread some good vibes all around. Remember, proper etiquette is essential; leave any bad attitudes at the door, and a slot tournament just might offer a fun way to forget about the stress and drama that may come with everyday life. 5 – Analyzing Tournament Slot Machine Selection Many casinos allow players to win bonuses on slots during a tournament. The machines are often set to play out more bonuses in tournament mode, ramping up the excitement even more. In most tournaments, the casino assigns only one type of machine for all players to compete on. In the rare cases where a tournament allows players to choose among differing games, players will want to check on which games are likely to award more bonus rounds and free spins, giving you a better chance to rack up some winnings. Maximizing your stakes offers you the best chance to bring in more winnings. It’s crucial to remember the goal is to have more points/winnings than other players when the tournament round is up. “The casino doesn't determine which machine will have the best score in a session, nor does it decide who will win the tournament,” Casino City Times notes. “Your scores determine your standing in the tournament and every player should have the same chances of getting the big payouts on the machines.” Leveraging Leaderboard Strategies & Post-Tournament Analysis Building on that note of scoring the highest point total, it’s worth taking a glance at the leaderboard standings on occasion. If a casino has a screen that tabulates standings, you can check out the action live as players continue spinning the reels. This will offer some insight into how many points you need to gain or possibly how far you are ahead. A player will especially want to check this out later in the tournament round. Down some points with only a few minutes remaining? Make sure you’re max betting and continue spinning as fast as possible to try and make up some ground on the leaderboard. This may even be more important in multi-round tournaments, where simply being among the top few players may allow you to move on to the next round. Playing free slots on platforms like Jackpot Party and QuickHitSlots.com will at least give players a look at some popular slot games. You can practice and see how certain games and bonus features work. After the tournament, it’s a good idea to evaluate your performance. Were other players more efficient than your play? Were there tournament rules you could have better-taken advantage of? Did you play at an optimal level? Answering some of these questions and learning from mistakes will help a player improve in that next tournament by utilizing newfound insights. Responsible Tournament Play Just as in all forms of gambling, playing responsibly in slot tournaments is always the goal. As noted, don't wager money that you can’t afford to lose. If a tournament buy-in is too much, look for another option or pass on hitting the casino altogether. Free slots may offer a better alternative until you have a large enough bankroll to play. Another thing players might want to remember is that even though a casino may reward loyal players with free slot tournaments, it’s ill-advised to play simply to earn these types of rewards so stay within your own budget. Casino gambling, including slots and slot tournaments, should be fun and entertaining. According to the Mayo Clinic, some signs to consider if you might have a gambling problem or are overdoing it include: Being preoccupied with gambling and how to get more money to gamble. Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to get the same thrill. Trying to control, cut back, or stop gambling without success. Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down on gambling. Gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression. Trying to get back lost money by gambling more. Lying to family members or others to hide the extent of gambling. Risking or losing important relationships, a job, school, or work opportunities because of gambling. Asking others to bail you out of financial trouble because of lost money. Success Stories Slot tournaments offer a great way to spend some time at the tournament with the potential for some big paydays. The buy-ins, prizes offered, and tournament styles can vary greatly. Some offer some major payouts. Cruise ships have become a hotspot for slots tournaments over the last few years and Carnival has become a tournament leader with some major events. In November 2023, the Carnival Celebration ship hosted the largest slot tournament in the cruise line’s history. As the name implies, the $1 Million Slot Tournament offered seven figures up for grabs. When the dust settled, 1,691 guests jumped in the action with the top 100 players getting some kind of cash prize. Rhonda Anderson, came out on top for a first-place payout of $500,000. Second place went to Courtney Paschal, who was awarded $150,000, while third-place winner Robert Blevins earned $50,000. Conclusion Slot tournaments are a great way to enjoy some time at a casino. Players aren't looking for winnings necessarily and instead hoping to accrue the most points to beat the other players in the tournament. Buy-ins, prize pools, and rules. Here are a few other key concepts to remember when playing in a slot tournament. Spin the reels as fast as possible to win more toward your spot in the standings. Stay focused and don’t get distracted. It’s important to get in as many spins as possible, including hopefully landing as many bonus opportunities as possible as well. Max betting offers the best chance at winning as this offers the chance at some of the highest rewards on the pay table. Another important thing to remember? Bring a good attitude to make the experience more fun. Slot tournaments can offer some great casino experiences with plenty of smiles and laughs. Have a good time – and spin, spin, spin, spin.

Most slot players long to chalk up some winnings whether they’re heading to a casino, playing online for real money, or simply having some fun on free-play platforms like Jackpot Party and QuickHitSlots.com. Picking the right slot may be important when it comes to winning as well as for the entertainment value. Slot developers offer players numerous options to choose from and have ramped up the technology, bonus features, and themes in recent years. There is seemingly something for everyone and choosing just the right games can be important. Keep reading to learn more about choosing the right slot when it comes to winning, fitting your personality, and matching your bankroll. Understanding Slot Machine Basics For the uninitiated, slot machines offer a complete all-in-one gaming experience. When the original machines were invented in the late 1800s, these games became the first gaming devices that could accept a wager, run a gambling session, and accept and pay out winning wagers without needing a human dealer. Players inserted a coin in a slot (giving the devices the name “slot machine”) and pulled a lever to spin the reels. Three reels featured several symbols such as bells, fruit, and more. Slowly the reels would come to a stop. If these symbols lined up in a certain combination across a line on the front of the machine (known as a “payline”) then the machine would pay out a certain amount of coins. Today’s machines now feature mostly video “reels” with many more paylines, stakes, themes, brilliant graphics and sounds, and so much more as part of the fun. Slots are generally now the biggest revenue generator for casinos around the world because they are so simple to play and offer numerous features for players to enjoy. Here’s a look at some of the types of slots a player can experience. Classic slots – These are older games that feature internal mechanical workings that determine the result of a spin. These feature a lever to get the reels spinning and aren’t found too often in modern casinos. Players use coins in these games and many early versions of these slots have become collector’s items. Video slots – These are modern slot games that feature video screens and high-tech computer technology. Video slots offer numerous paylines, various stake levels, fun bonus features, excellent graphics and sound, and a wide range of gaming themes and narratives. Unlike classic slots, these games make use of a random number generator (RNG) to determine the result of each slot spin. Progressive slots – When players read headlines of slot jackpots that reach into the millions of dollars, that massive total comes on progressive slots. These games take a small amount from each spin and funnel that into the progressive prize pool. This pool usually pays out at several jackpot levels but occasionally awards those massive seven- and eight-figure payouts that make news. However, it’s important to note that these games often feature higher stakes and players meet certain wagering levels to qualify for these mega jackpots. Mobile slots –  In recent years, slots have become more available to play on mobile phones and tablet devices – either for real money or for free. These are often the same games one might find at a casino, but some slot developers specialize in designing games solely for mobile and online platforms. Free-to-play slots – These are popular mobile and online gaming platforms, often referred to as social casinos, that allow players to enjoy the fun of slot play without having to wager any real money. These platforms, such as Jackpot Party and QuickHitSlots.com, offer players some of their favorite games while utilizing virtual currency and coins. Social casinos often feature entertaining challenges and numerous options to keep players interested. Take your pick and enjoy our incredible slots below: Click here to dive into our wide array of free slots. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Slot Machine Beyond the types of slots listed above, there are also some other considerations when choosing a game that has a chance to win as well as other aspects that might make a session more rewarding. Slots come with a house edge, meaning players shouldn’t expect to tip the odds in their favor or find a win every session at the casino or online. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to give yourself a better chance at securing a winning session. Here are a few concepts to remember when heading to the casino or grabbing that mobile phone for some slot fun. Payback percentage Also known as Return to Player – RTP. Everyone likes to win, but securing a slot machine winning session isn’t always possible. RTP represents the amount of money wagered into a casino’s slot that is returned to players. This can vary by machine or level of stakes, but offers some insight into the chances a player has to win during a slot session. For example, a casino r slot that has an RTP of 89% is paying out 89 cents of every dollar wagered in the machine. Many manufacturers offer RTP percentages for individual games right on their company websites and other websites also feature RTPs from various casinos and regions. A little planning can help players find some of the best-paying slots and casinos – those “loose slots” are worth checking out. These are also available for online slots as well. Online slots may feature much higher RTPs than those found in a live casino. Nice RTP percentages for live casinos may be in the high 80s or low 90s. Online slots may offer RTP rates into the high 90s. Volatility/variance These terms are interchangeable and a critical concept related to slots that players can find for various slots online. Volatility refers to how often a slot pays out and has players considering the risk versus reward of a slot. Highly volatile slots pay out less often but may register higher prizes when they do bring a payout. Lower volatility slots offer more frequent payouts but usually pay out less when they do register a win. Players must weigh these considerations when choosing a slot. Most progressive games feature higher volatility and players must be more patient when expecting wins. Those who have less patience may like seeing more fireworks with less volatile games. It’s important to match a slot with your own risk tolerance and level of patience when it comes to finding the right bang for the buck. Themes and game features Players may also want to consider the bang for the buck when it comes to the entertainment aspects related to a slot as well. Today’s games feature themes and narratives of every variety – from pop culture to mythology to animals and so much more. There is seemingly something for every personality. Stroll through a casino or scan through a platform like a free-to-play social gaming casino platform and you’ll find numerous options to choose from and chances are you’ll find a theme that interests you. This is a stark difference from slot games’ early years when players only had limited symbols and options. Today’s games also feature numerous special features not found in early games, such as bonus rounds, wild symbols, and more. Here’s a quick look at a few of those: Bonus rounds – These are extra opportunities to win that aren’t part of the base game. Bonus games often even take players to a separate screen to spin a bonus wheel, pick a card, or some other fun extra that can even give players a chance to win a jackpot. Free spins – These can be triggered in various games and have become extremely popular. As the name implies, these allow players to keep spinning the reels a certain number of times without wagering any more money. Many free spin rounds also see the game’s winning symbols and combinations show up more during this time. Some games even allow players to retrigger the free spins as well. Wild symbols – Like a wild card in a poker game, wild symbols can act as other symbols on the reels. This allows players to collect more winning combinations in the process. Some wilds can also trigger other winning payouts or bonus games as well. Step-by-Step Handy Guide: How to Pick a Winning Slot Machine Ready to hit the casino or to play online? Here are a few aspects of slots that players may also want to consider when dropping a few bucks in a slot. Understand your goals – Are you looking at just a few hours of fun or for some serious progressive slot play? Know your goals for play and plan accordingly. Stick to those goals to make for a more pleasant experience. Learn slot machine basics – Having a general idea of how to play slots can make the experience better. Knowing the key symbols and payout opportunities on a slot is also a nice idea. Consult the paytable to learn more about these features. For a complete beginner’s guide to playing slots, click here. Explore themes and features – Today’s games offer numerous themes and features – from the luck of the Irish, fantasy, and mythology to Asian, animals, and adventure. There is something for every taste. Some games also include more bonus features than others. If you like plenty of “bells and whistles,” take that into account when selecting a slot. Those who want a more laid-back session will gravitate to games with fewer bonus features. Research online and at the casino – Many slot developers offer the RTP for various slots right on their own websites. These can often be found on the games themselves as well by looking at the information page on the slot itself as well. Many online sources also allow players to find out the RTP of an individual casino. Players may want to stroll the casino floor to find the best slots that fit their interests and personalities as well. Making note of differing areas with various stakes is also a good idea. This can give you an idea of which limits are available and what levels best fit your bankroll. Timing Matters – While the time of day or day of the week is irrelevant when it comes to actually winning on a slot (more on that below), there may be more ideal times for a player’s own personality. Casinos are generally more crowded at night and on the weekend, so those who like a less-crowded gaming venue may want to choose other times when there are more times for players to hit the machines. Other players who enjoy a more festive and party-like atmosphere may want to gamble on the weekends. Look for “Loose” Slots – While the idea of “hot” and “cold” slots is a misnomer (more on that below), the idea that some games and casinos are more “loose” than others is not. This term has to do with a property’s RTP, the amount paid back to players from each dollar that’s put into a machine or casino. A slot returning 92 cents out of every dollar wagered back to players has an RTP of 92%. This would be a nice RTP for a live casino, while some online slots can even be higher and get to above 95%. The higher the RTP, the better chance a player has to win. For more on this topic, keep reading. Play Responsibly – As with all gaming, only be willing to wager money that’s budgeted for entertainment and that isn’t needed for other bills or household expenses. Set a certain bankroll just for slot play and don’t go over that. As the National Council on Responsible Gambling notes: “Problem gambling is an emotional problem that has financial consequences. If you pay all the debts of a person affected by problem gambling, the person still has a gambling problem or gambling disorder. The real issue is that they have an uncontrollable obsession with gambling.” Bankroll Management Setting a budget for slot machine play is critical to an enjoyable time out that won’t leave you going broke. Here are a few ideas to remember: Only budget what you can afford to lose. Slot machine play is about entertainment, so don’t wager money that should go toward critical needs. Avoid the ATM. Going over your bankroll budget can lead to additional losses and isn’t a good idea. Take breaks, especially when suffering some losing sessions. Those machines aren’t going anywhere, so feel free to take a walk, grab some dinner, visit other tourist sites, or hang out with friends. Play slowly to make that bankroll last longer. Auto-spin or simply getting in a hurry can siphon away your bankroll and end that casino trip more quickly than you might have planned. At home and want to play slots without risking a dime? Consider free-to-play options like Jackpot Party or QuickHitSlots.com, which can be played either on a mobile device or online without a download required. Players will find some of their favorite games and can get in the action anywhere anytime. Slot Machine Strategies, Myths, & Selection Tips Picking a winning slot machine isn’t easy as the house always has an edge, but making that selection can at least help your bankroll last longer for a better chance at winning. There are also some myths that players should sweep from their minds when hitting the slots. It seems everyone has an opinion on how and when slots payout. As Medium.com notes: “There are a lot of myths surrounding these funny little machines and what they can do and what they cannot do.” Here’s a look at a few strategies to keep in mind as well as a few slot machine myths. Common slot machine strategies Common slot machine myths Pay attention to RTP – As noted earlier, this helps players learn which casinos or slots are more likely to pay out in the long run. Hot & cold – Some people believe certain slots are either “hot” or cold.” However, slot payouts are based solely on the RNG and may appear at any time. The time since a slot paid off is also irrelevant. Some machines may experience longer times between payouts while other games may pay out a couple of jackpots quickly between wins. This is all randomness based on the RNG. Play at the right stakes – Don’t play above your bankroll level. Instead, make that money last longer for a better chance to win. Time of day or day of the week – There is no best time to play slots. All payouts are based on the RNG, not a certain time of the day or day of the week. Choose volatility that fits your playing style – Make sure you’ve chosen a slot that best fits your personality. If you like bigger payouts and have a larger bankroll, choose higher volatility. If you enjoy more regular payouts and have a smaller bankroll, look for games with lower volatility. Lever luck – While modern video slots are based on high-tech inner works and not mechanics, some machines still offer players to pull a lever like classic machines. However, this merely triggers the RNG just as the “spin” button would do. There’s no advantage to giving that lever a pull, but it can make for some old-fashioned fun. Take it slow – Playing like a racehorse can see your bankroll evaporate more quickly. Taking more of a snail’s pace means your cash will last longer. Slow and steady wins the race. Player’s card conundrum – Some players mistakenly believe using a player’s card triggers a slot to pay out less often or will reduce a player’s chances of booking a winning session. This is also nonsense and any player hitting the slots should take advantage of a loyalty card. Don’t ever play simply to earn rewards, but if you’re going to play anyway it’s worth grabbing those points and extras. Much of the above also applies to playing online, which can often feature better chances for players to win as well as the option to play without risking any real money for those who like to play free slots. Keeping these strategies and concepts in mind offers players a better chance at winning as well as offering a more entertaining outing at a casino. Responsible Gambling Slot machine play is meant to be fun and players should treat a trip to the casino or playing online as entertainment. Don’t wager money that should be used on other necessary daily expenses. A player’s bankroll should be composed of money that could be lost and that person would still be okay. The Priory Group, which helps players with problem gambling issues in the United Kingdom, lists the following signs that someone may need to seek help. Loss of control and being unable to manage impulsive urges to gamble and unconcerned with the odds. Problems within the workplace, absence from work, or general lack of concentration make it difficult to complete tasks sufficiently. A preoccupation with gambling loss of interest in other hobbies and ignoring family responsibilities. Increasing the quantities gambled to recoup lost bets or to experience the same thrill. A negative impact on relationships. Concealing the amount of money and time spent betting from family members. Stealing money to gamble. Denial that there is a problem. “Because a gambling addiction can affect relationships and become a huge cause of concern for immediate family and friends, observing the common signs of gambling addiction as early as possible can be important,” Priory notes. Here are a few other safe gaming resources for those who think they may have a problem. National Council on Problem Gambling International Center for Responsible Gaming Responsible Gambling Council Global Gambling Guidance Group Conclusion Making use of some of the suggestions on this page can help in finding the right slot and hopefully secure a winning session. It’s important to realize that the house always has an advantage when it comes to playing slots, but players can win and sometimes spinning the reels can make for an entertaining experience. Here are a few key points to remember: Set limits and play responsibly. Wager only money that you can afford to lose as part of an overall entertainment budget. Look for games that best fit your personality. Higher volatility games (including progressive slots) payout larger but less frequently. Lower volatility games pay out more often, but usually at smaller amounts. RTP is a good way to determine which games might offer a chance to pay out some winnings more often. This is the amount paid back to players from each dollar wagered, and the higher the RTP is always better for players. Today’s slots regularly feature numerous bonus games and features, such as free spins and bonus wheels, that offer players even more chances to win beyond the base games. Some games feature several bonus options while others come with few of these types of extras. This is another consideration when choosing a slot that best fits your personality and goals. Free-to-play slot platforms like Jackpot Party and QuickHitSlots.com can be a great way to learn how slots work, practice, and find which types of games best appeal to you without having to worry about losing any money. Some planning and general knowledge about what types of slots appeal to you can help determine the best options to aim for a winning session at the slots.