Mastering Strategy on Slot Machines: Tips and Tricks for Maximizing Your Wins
Strategy on Slot Machines: What You’ll Learn
- Understanding Progressive Jackpots: Learn how progressive jackpots work, how they accumulate, and the difference between localized and widely spread progressives.
- Distinguishing Video Poker from Slots: Discover why video poker is different from traditional slot machines and how its payout structure is based on poker hand rankings.
- The Role of Random Number Generators (RNG): Gain insight into how modern slot machines use RNGs to ensure each spin is random and independent, contributing to fair play.
- Debunking Slot Machine Triggers: Understand that there are no specific times or number of spins that trigger a win, emphasizing the randomness secured by licensed gaming establishments.
- Strategies for Maximizing Play: Learn techniques such as choosing slots with higher RTP percentages and leveraging casino promotions to extend gameplay and enhance winning chances.
There are no guaranteed wins when it comes to playing slot machines, however, there are slot machine strategies you can use that will maximize your playing time and increase the odds of your chances of winning.
Whether you’re playing in a land-based casino or an online casino, these strategies and some bankroll management will enhance your gameplay and help you enjoy your time on the slots.
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Strategy on Slot Machines: Understanding Slot Machine Basics
There are several varieties of slot machines. For those who want that old school reel-spinning gambling, those slot machines are still available in some land-based casinos and digital versions can be found online on sites like FanDuel Casino and BetMGM casino.
Most slot machines are going to be video or digital, generally with lots of paylines and offering lots ways to win.
Let’s break down the basics of a slot machine.
Reels
The reels are sections of the slot machine that spin. They’re activated when you pull the lever or press the “Spin” button. Each reel will have any number of symbols or pictures, which may include just about anything.
Most famously, these are cherries, lemons or “BAR” symbols, but most modern slot machine reels will have symbols based on the theme of the game. An Egyptian-themed slot machine might have pyramids and a Jurassic Park themed slot machine would have dinosaurs and the film’s logo.
Paylines
Winning is based on what symbols are displayed on the paylines when the reels stop spinning. The traditional slot machines may only have one vertical payline whereas other digital slot machines may offer 50+ paylines going vertically, horizontally, diagonally or snaking through depending on what comes up on your spin.
Wagers
It’s up to the player to determine how much they want to bet per spin, which may include the number of paylines they want to play on. Depending on how many paylines you want to play and how much you’re betting will determine how much you’re wagering for the spin.
For instance, you don’t wager one penny on the penny slots. These slot machines often have lots of lines and it’s a penny per line. If these are 25 lines and you bet a penny on each then it’s 25 cents per spin.
Bonuses and Jackpots might be tied into the number of lines and amount per line you bet – it’s often the maximum. So, make sure you know what you need to wager if you want the opportunity to win big.
Jackpots and Bonuses
Through jackpots and casino bonuses, slot machines have ways to entice players and provide extra chances to make more money. Bonuses can include free spins or mini-games within the game and jackpots can provide a major boost in winning.
These extra ways of spinning and winning help you increase your chances of making money because they are added benefits without spending more.
Random Number Generator (RNG)
For both online and land-based casinos, RNGs are important to know when playing slot machines. A Random Number Generator is an algorithm used to ensure that each spin on a slot machine is completely fair and independent of any other spin.
RNGs make each spin unpredictable.
Reputable casinos are under strict regulations and must prove they operate fairly and without manipulating the system. If you’re looking for slot machines online, make sure they are a reputable, licensed site.
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Strategy on Slot Machines: Bankroll Management Techniques
Bankroll management is important when heading to the casino or playing online. By setting limits and knowing when to leave a slot machine to try out another, you’re sure to have a better experience when playing the slots.
As much fun as winning can be, it’s crucial to think of playing slot machines as an enjoyable experience comparable to any other leisurely activity, whether it’s attending a sporting event, going out to dinner, watching a movie or reading a book.
Let’s discuss some bankroll management techniques.
Splitting Your Bankroll
Before you split your bankroll, you’ll want to decide how much you plan to bring to the casino or play with online. This should be an amount that you can afford to lose and a number you’ll stick with no matter what.
Now, consider how much time you’re going to spend playing. Maybe it’s a day trip to a local casino or a five-day extravaganza in Las Vegas. You’ll want to split your bankroll into smaller portions for the amount you’ll spend during a specific time.
Let’s say you’re going to the casino for 4 hours, divide your bankroll by 4 and that would be the amount you spend per hour.
Remember to play the slot machines that match your bankroll. For instance, if you’re playing with $400 for four hours, you may want to avoid the $10 per spin machines.
Setting Win and Loss Limits
Setting limits for wins and losses will help prevent you from spending too much while also maximizing your wins. A good limit might be 50% for losses or x2 for wins.
So, if you plan on playing $100 per hour on slot machines and you’ve lost $50, then it’s time to walk away. That doesn’t mean stop gambling, it’s a way to stop chasing losses, collect your thoughts and take a break.
If you’re doing well and you have a x2 win limit then once you reach $200, you know it’s time to take a break so you don’t blow you winnings.
Many players think they’re due if they’ve been playing a slot machine for an extended period of time but remember, the RNG makes each spin random.
Strategy on Slot Machines: Choosing the Right Slot Machines
There are over 200,000 slot machines in Las Vegas (10,000+ in the WinStar Casino alone) and online casinos can boast 100s to choose from. How do you choose the right slot machine?
There is certain information that can help you determine which slot machine will have the best odds of winning, such as Return to Player rates and level of volatility. However, you should also consider playing the one that interests you the most.
If you love Wheel of Fortune slot machines, for example, then play your favorites. Recreational gambling is all about having fun!
High-Denomination Slots
High-denomination slots can be found in most casinos all over the world as well as online. These types of slots machines are for those who want to risk making large wagers per spin for the opportunity to win some big money. While they tend to offer higher payouts, the risk of losing money faster is also greater.
High-denomination slot machines will also likely be more volatile. So, while they might go longer without a significant payout, when you spin a winning combination, the reward should be pretty nice. If you can stomach the risk of high-denomination slots, they can be exciting and fun.
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High Return to Plyer (RTP) Rates
The Return to Player (RTP) rates is part of creating a strategy on slot machines. What the RTP represents is the percentage of money that a machine or game will return on average, in the long run.
Slot machines will often have RTPs above 90% meaning that it expects to pay back $90 for every $100 played. There are some land-based casinos with slot machine RTPs as high as 98% and online casinos will boast RTPs even higher!
Now, this doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to make that money back – remember, RTPs are averages over the long run.
Think about it like this way…
- 10 players spend $100 ($1,000 total)
- 9 of those players lose all their money
- Then that 10th player wins $900
- That’s a 90% RTP rate
If you’re looking for better chances to win, try to play the slots with the highest RTP. You never know when the algorithm based on the RNG and RTP will work in your favor, but the machines with a higher Return to Player will likely pay out more frequently.
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Strategy on Slot Machines: Low vs. High Volatility
We touched on volatility a little already but let’s dive a bit deeper. Volatility is determined by the frequency in which a machine pays out.
Low Volatility
Low volatility slot machines pay out more often but in smaller amounts. What’s nice about low volatility is that wins will come more frequently. Unfortunately, they won’t be big, exciting wins. The upside is that dry spells won’t last as long so you won’t hit your bankroll limit as quickly.
Low volatility slots are ideal for players who are in it for the experience of having fun and playing relaxed, longer sessions who aren’t as concerned about hitting the jackpot
High Volatility
High volatility slot machines pay out less frequently but the rewards are higher. Because of the higher volatility, dry spells tend to run a little longer. But then, that payout could be nice and sweet. Just remember that large payouts are not guaranteed.
High volatility slots are ideal for the risk taker who can withstand long runs without wins but are thrilled with that big win if it comes. These players should have a bankroll prepared for longer playing times and can afford a loss if the giant reward doesn’t materialize.
Slot Volatility and Your Playing Style
Now that you know the differences between high volatility slots and low volatility, it’s best to find one that meets your playing style.
Your style may change based on what you can afford and how you want to play. Maybe you’ve been saving up for months for a big birthday bash at the casino and you want to hit the high volatility slots. Or perhaps you want to kick back, find a fun machine and see what happens.
Whatever your playing style is, keep in mind the bankroll management techniques discussed above.
Strategy on Slot Machines: Betting Strategies
There are several different Blackjack betting strategies that gamblers can test out – the player is in control so they can wager based on cards. But those strategies won’t work as well when it comes to slots. So, does a betting strategy on slot machines actually work?
Absolutely! While no single betting strategy can guarantee a win, there are many you can try to maximize your experience and your bankroll.
Here are some popular slot machine betting strategies:
5 Spin Rule
The 5-spin rule in slots is pretty simple. You basically spin 5 times on a slot machine and then move on to the next one. The exception would be if you win enough that you feel it’s worth sticking around.
If you bet $20 and only win back $5, then after 5 spins you’ll want to go to another machine. It’s a little more active than recreational slot machine players are used to but it’s a way to not chase after losses.
The Umbrella Strategy
The Umbrella Strategy is designed to manage bankrolls and minimize losses. The idea is that you would slowly increase the number of coins you bet per spin until you reach a certain amount, then decrease it back to the number you started with. This allows you to bet the maximum at some points but not consistently wager the max.
Levels Betting
Levels betting is a slots strategy based on wagering more if you find you’re losing. It’s similar to the 5 spin rule but works by increasing your bet after 5 spin losses.
An example would be paying $1 per spin. If you lose 5 in a row, you increase it to maybe $2 per spin. If you win, you drop back to $1. The goal here is to maximize your wins and make up for losses.
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Fixed Percentage
This strategy works by adjusting your wager based on percentage. You can either adjust on every spin or after a certain number of spins.
An example would be if you start with $100 and want to bet 5% per spin. This means your first bet is $5. If you lose, your next bet would be $4.75 (5% of $95) or as close to that as you can get, whereas if you win $20, the next bet would be $6.00 (5% of $120).
Betting Maximum on Paylines
It’s important to know the rules when playing the slots, especially when it comes to winning jackpots and getting bonuses.
Generally, if you want to qualify for jackpots, you must bet the maximum. This might be easier on the cheaper slots where a spin with 40 paylines might be $2 per spin, but keep this in mind whenever you sit down at a machine – that $1 slot machine might be $5 per spin if you want bonuses and jackpots.
Betting maximum on paylines will often be required to access bonuses and jackpots.
Utilizing Bonus Offers
Bonus offers are one of the reasons players will want choose a specific slot machine. Both online casinos and land-based casinos will have lots of slot machine offers with any variety of bonus offers. There are many ways you can get bonuses.
- Free Spins: These bonuses can be part of a casino promotion, a welcome bonus or because you achieved a certain spin while playing. Free spins are great because you’re literally playing for free, which means you can possibly win money without dipping into your bankroll.
- Loyalty Bonuses: If you’re part of a loyalty program with a casino, you’ll often receive opportunities for bonuses when you play. The casino loyalty program may offer free spins, special promotions, cashback rewards or bonuses tied to the amount you spend.
- Match Deposit Bonus: These are popular for online casinos in which the casino will match your deposit up to a certain amount, even up to 100%. If you deposit $100, that means the casino will match with another $100. There are often specific rules or restrictions so make sure you read the rules carefully.
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Practicing with Demo Versions
Online casinos may allow you to demo a slot machine. This gives you the chance to familiarize yourself with the game so you can understand the rules and determine whether you want to play. It’s a great way to get some practice in without risking money.
There are also free slot machine options available online through apps. Just download the game and play for fun.
Responsible Gambling Practices
What is your ultimate goal when playing slot machines? Unless you’re a professional gambler, you should be playing slot machines for fun and an enjoyable experience, one that also provides the chance to win back some money.
Here are 4 ways you can make sure you’re gambling responsibly:
- Set a budget and manage your bankroll. This means you’re setting aside money you can afford to lose if you end up having some bad luck. This may include a certain amount per session or per month. Regardless, you set a budget and stick to it.
- Set Time Limits. A time limit will help you step away by giving you a specific time that you need to walk away.
- Understand Slot Machines. Part of responsible gambling is understanding the games you’re playing. For slot machines, remember that each spin is based on an RNG to ensure randomness and fairness. It’s also important to know how the slots will pay out bonuses and how special features work.
- Take Breaks. Whether playing online or in a physical casino, slots can become isolating. It’s no different than getting lost on a game on your phone. If you’re at a slot machine, it’s just you (whereas table games would have dealers and other players). It’s important to take breaks and step back into reality for a little bit.
Strategy on Slot Machines: FAQ
What is Return to Player (RTP)?
RTP indicates the percentage of money that a slot machine or game will return on average over a period of time. It does not guarantee an individual player will get the RTP rate.
Where can I find the RTP of slot machines?
It’s not always easy to find RTP for specific slot machines. Online slot machines tend to share this information in the “info” section of the game. For land-based casinos, they may not be on the machine themselves.
Some casinos will have charts with RTP information or you can ask them for this info. And finally, some casinos might announce their RTP rate as part of their marketing strategy so potential players will be enticed to spin the reels in their casino.
Where can I find the volatility of slot machines?
This could be even harder to find than the RTP. If provided, this information will be in the “info” section of the slot machine.
Another good option is to check out message boards and gambling forums where people may be privy to this information.
What are progressive slots?
Progressive slots are very popular. A portion of each players’ bet is placed as part of a growing jackpot. The number will continue to grow until someone wins it. Jackpot sizes will vary and can sometimes grow into the hundreds-of-thousands, if not millions!
Progressive jackpots might increase based on a bank of slots in a casino, a region or even several locations across the world. The ones that are spread far and wide will grow faster than a localized jackpot.
What is video poker?
Video poker is not a slot machine. Depending on the variation you’re playing, a list of payouts will be easily accessible (most of the time it’s on the screen as you play) and will let you know how much you can expect to win based on the hand you’re dealt. The goal is to make the best poker hand you can.
How do slots work?
Most modern slot machines are digital and, therefore, operate based on a Random Number Generator (RNG), an algorithm to ensure each spin is random, unpredictable and independent. When a player spins, the symbols on the wheel will line up on paylines and, depending on the rules of the game, the slot machine pays out, if applicable.
What triggers a slot machine to win?
Unfortunately, because of the RNG, a slot machine won’t have a definitive time or number of spins that triggers a win. A licensed, regulated gaming establishment, including online casinos, will use RNGs. That being said, a slot machine can be programmed to return a percentage back in the long run (known as Return to Player percentage or RTP). This doesn’t guarantee a win or trigger at a specific time though.
Is There a Trick to Winning on Slot Machines?
There are several strategies in this article to help guide you into making your gameplay last longer, and therefore, increasing your chances of winning. The trick to winning on slot machines is to take advantage of slots with higher RTP percentages as well as promotions and bonuses.
The more you can take advantage of things like matching deposits, free spin bonuses and other programs, the less bankroll you’re investing while increasing the number of spins you get on a slot machine.
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