Slot Machines

Slot machines or slot games are some of the most popular casino games both on and offline. These games have been around for years, having their origins in land-based casinos. Originally, these games were relatively simple too, but over time, they have become more complex offering a range of different bonuses and other gameplay features to make them more exciting. And on top of that, they now feature myriad different themes too.

In this article, we will take a look at all things to do with slot machines.

πŸ“Œ What are slots?

Slots are simple games of chance. The game features a number of reels and on these reels are various different symbols. A button is pushed to spin these reels so that the different symbols scroll across the reels and rows. When the reels stop spinning, the hope is that at least three matching symbols will have landed on a payline. If they have, then this constitutes a win and the player will get paid out.

In recent years, the way these games operate has become more and more diverse, with new features added all the time. This has only helped to make them more exciting.

πŸ“Œ Types of slot games

There are a number of different types of slot games available these days. The type of game chosen will affect the way the game is played too. Some slots have a lot more going on than others. Below are some of the main types of slots.

πŸ“Œ Classic

These are the original games and are still found both online and in land-based venues. Classic slots tend to come with just three reels and often just one payline, although some will have as many as five. Another standout feature of this type of slot is that the symbols tend to be different fruits, sevens, bars, and bell symbols. Generally, there are also no added features within the game. These are just simple spin and win options.

πŸ“Œ Five reel

With the rise in popularity of online casinos, slot games have also been revamped throughout the years. And this is evidenced in five-reel slot games. These games work along the same lines as classic games but have five reels not three. On top of that, these games can have hundreds of paylines in action too.

Most five reel games tend to have between 20 and 100 paylines. However, in recent years, game providers have created a number of innovative game mechanics that can increase the ways to win on a single slot. In fact, these days, there are slots offering hundreds of thousands of ways to win.

πŸ“Œ Progressive

The final slot type is the progressive jackpot games. These tend to operate along with the five-reel slot format. The big difference here is that these games can have massive wins in store for players. This is because the jackpot continues to grow as more players join and play. The jackpot only resets once the prize has been won. Like five-reel games, these progressives will also often have a number of additional in-game bonuses.

πŸ“Œ Slot technology

When it comes to playing slots, there are a couple of things that players need to understand to make the most out of playing these games. As they are now fully computerized, it's important to get to grips with how they work.

πŸ“Œ Paytables

The paytable can be found on every single slot game when the slot is opened. This section of the game shows the player all the different symbols and includes what they are worth and if they have any special bonus properties. By checking out the paytable it's possible to see which symbols are the most rewarding when they land on the reels.

πŸ“Œ RNG

All slots work through the use of random number generators or RNGs. This is the special algorithm that makes the slot spin and stops completely at random. Games have to be regularly audited to ensure that this is the case though. What this means though, is that slots do operate completely at random, so players can trust the results.

πŸ“Œ RTP

Return to player rate or RTP is the theoretical return a player can expect when playing a slot over a long period of time. The higher the RTP, the better the chances are for a player to claim back more winnings. For instance, if a slot has a 95% RTP, then for every $100 spent, the player can expect to get $95 back.

πŸ“Œ FAQ

Are slot machines and games fair to play?

Yes, slots are operated by RNGs and these are regularly audited by third-party companies to ensure gaming fairness.

Can I win real money on a slot machine?

Yes, you can, but you need to be playing with real money and remember that winning is down to luck.

What's the best slot machine to play?

The best slot is one that has a high RTP and good bonuses.

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