Slot Basics

Slots are games of chance with symbols displayed on reels.  The objective is to spin the reels so the symbols form a winning combination in the payline(s).  The payout is dependant on the winning combination formed. There are two types of slot machines, straight slots and progressive slots. The straight slots have fixed payouts and generally offer more payouts that a progressive machine. The progressive slots offer a jackpot and a player needs to play the maximum number of coins to be able to win the jackpot.  The reason the progressive slots pay less frequently than the straight slots is to build the jackpot. 

If you follow these simple tips you can increase your chances of winning and have more fun:

• Casinos post their payout schedules. Online casinos can pay out up to 99% and still turn a profit. Land casinos have more expenses so they typically pay out no more than 90%. This doesn't mean you should only play online. It does mean that if you are in a land-based casino and their slots payout schedule is only 85%, it might be time to find another casino.



• Most casinos pay out the simple jackpot and the progressive jackpot only if you are playing the maximum number of coins for that machine. The maximum is usually three coins. Some players choose to play one coin in order to conserve their money. If you want to both play for the jackpots and conserve your money, you should play the maximum number of coins at the cheapest slot that offers a progressive jackpot.



• Play at slot machines that offer higher return percentages or payouts.  Usually the higher the denomination played, the higher the payout.  For example, a 25¢ slot machine will have a higher payout than a 5¢ machine



• Never play slot games, for real money if you are drunk or tired



• Play at slot machines for short periods of time.  The longer you play, the greater the chance of winning for the house



• Decide in advance how much your bankroll is for a session and stand by your decision



• Don't forget that the credit amount showing on the slot machines is real money



• Look for and play at casinos that offer the highest payouts.



• Leave when you're winning



• Don't bet money you can't afford to lose



• Look at playing slots as entertainment only because it is very hard to win