Slot Machine Guide

Introduction

Slot machines happen to be one of the most popular forms of online casino gambling. Before you get into slot machines, you must remember to learn all the slot machine rules to make sure that you will win the largest amount possible. Slot machines today have become one of the most popular methods of gambling on both online casinos and on land casinos reflecting over 65% of the casino's average income.

Basic Information

The objective of the game is strike a winning combination of symbols to win a corresponding jackpot. Slot machines are basically coin-operated machines which have a minimum of 3 reels, sometimes more. Whenever a lever at the side of the slot machine is pulled, the reels on the slot machine spin. In case of online casino gambling, a button is generally clicked to activate the reels. The slot machine is also referred to as the "one-armed bandit" mainly because of its success and ability at being able to take away your money. Thus, having a good understanding of Slot Machine rules, helps equip you beat the machine and win yourself a pile of jack.

Operation

To play slots online one must select the coin size by using the coin button selector. Betting will then start from one to a maximum number of coins. The game is started by inserting the coin and pulling on the handle or pressing the spin button. When the bell rings or if the light flashes, it indicates that the player is already in the game. Once the reels stop spinning you must press the ‘cash-out' button to collect the accumulated amount. Remember it's very important to adhere to slot machine rules!

Step by Step Instructions

If one wishes to survive in the hard world of online casinos and online gambling on slot machines, you must take the time to learn the rules of the game. Slot machines have a payout table which means you can compare your payouts which vary. It is important for you to note that you must not play the game if there is no payout table or pay chart on the slot machine! Once you familiarize yourself with slot machine rules, you will understand that every slot machine has the option to play maximum value or not. Slot machines allow you to play with nickels, quarters and dollar denominations. All said and done, it's your bankroll which determines what you play with.

Online slot machine bets are determined by the denomination of coins. The slot machine has a display which allows you to select the 5¢, 50¢, $1, $2, and $5 coin denominations. The payouts are made using the same value of the coin used when the reels were spun.

To place a bet, first select the denomination of the coins. This will select the value of the coin played. You must then deposit the coins; you click the ‘bet one' button if you want to bet one coin at a time. When you do this, one coin is removed from your credit. This happens each and every time you click the ‘bet one' button. If you have a sufficient credit balance you can opt to click the ‘bet max' and bet a maximum of 3 coins. Once you do this, the reels start spinning immediately. One can also use the cash out button to return the coins you have bet to your overall credit balance.

The reels may spin together or one by one and then stop at a random symbol. You will have to compare the resulting combination with the payout chart/table to determine your payout amount. It's important to remember that all winnings are to be redeemed at the cashier's station. The management usually reserves the right to limit play to one machine during peak hours. Decisions by the management are final on all games.

Slot Machine rules are pretty similar to that of Video Poker. It does not take one long to master the game. If you are having trouble getting familiarized with the game, then go to your online slot machine and use this write up as a step by step guide and you won't go wrong!

How to Play Online Slots

Although the game of slots is considered very simple to play, each slot machine has its own rules and wagering requirements. Players need to consider the amount of coins to use, taking into account the minimum and maximum requirements on the machine. While most machines allow players to bet up to three coins, some allow up to five.

Once the bet has been placed, players pull the lever or press the spin button. The RNG spins the reels until they come to rest on the final symbols. Winning lines can be viewed according to the rules of the paytable. Some slot machines use special symbols such as wild symbols which act like an ‘ace' – used to complete a winning payline.

Understanding Online Casino Slot Buttons

• The Bet Max Button: The player chooses to place the maximum number of coins on the payline chosen.
• All Lines: The player wagers a bet on all the paylines available.
• Hold: Used to keep a reel fixed on a particular symbol. Usually played on two spin games.
• Bet Per Line: The player decides how much he wants to bet on each on the paylines.

Different Types of Online Casino Slots

As we've mentioned, players need to be make an educated decision regarding which slot machine they want to play. There are generally two types of slot machines – non-progressive and progressive jackpot slots.

Non-Progressive Slots: These are machines that have fixed jackpots that do not accumulate over time. The chances of winning these slots are higher than progressive slots yet they are becoming less popular in the gambling industry due to the huge amounts of money that can be won in progressive slots.

Progressive Slots: This is a network of slots joined together so that every time a gambler plays at a casino slot machine in the group, the jackpot accumulates and the prize increases. In recent years, progressive slots have become enormously popular on the internet, with cash prizes exceeding $3-million and more.

Online Slots Strategy

Because slots are considered a game of chance, there is no foolproof strategy to ensure that you will win this game. Be wary of anybody who tries to sell you the ‘perfect slot strategy' as it simply does not exist. However, there are several things that you, the gambler, can do to prolong your slots fun and minimize your losses.

Know Your Game: To truly get the most out of your slot session, make absolutely sure that you know the minimum and maximum betting requirements on that particular machine, as well as have a clear understanding regarding the paytable.

Manage your Money: Before you hit those slots decide ahead how much money you can afford to play with and make a concerted effort to quit when that money runs out. Of course, it is obvious that you should never play with money that is not yours to begin with or that is required for other household expenses. Another way to manage your money is to divide your bankroll according to the number of gambling sessions you will have online or the number of days that you will be spending at a traditional casino. Stick to that amount and you will most probably come out a winner.

Play at your Peak: If you take to the slot machines when you're tired, emotional or under the influence of one substance or another, the chances are that you will lose a lot more money than you bargained for. When playing with real money, you need to have all your wits about you, otherwise you are likely to make some pretty bad decisions which will be sorely felt by your bankroll.

Prolong your Game: If your aim is to spend as long as you can at the slot machines without wasting away your bankroll in the first ten minutes, find slot machines that allow you to wager small amounts and one coin.

Play Maximum Coins: On the other hand, if you want to increase your chances of winning the big jackpot, you will need to play the maximum number of coins. There is nothing more frustrating than lining up the required reels on a progressive jackpot machine and then realizing that you are not eligible for the Big Prize because you didn't feed the slot machine with the three required maximum coins.

Popular Online Slot Myths and Misconceptions

Just as with any game that involves chance, many mistruths and myths have sprung up around the game of slots. We try to dispel some of them:

• Myth #1: You can determine the sequence of the slot machine's spins by careful study. Wrong! Random Number Generators generate the millions of number combinations every time the lever is pulled, making it literally impossible to track these sequences.
• Myth #2: If I had stayed seated where that player just won the jackpot, it could have been me! Wrong again! You had just as much chance of winning the jackpot if you had stayed seated, as if you moved to another machine and tried your luck there. Again, the RNG is the one that determines the winners and nothing else.
• Myth #3: The shape/temperature of the coin determines my luck. Not true. While some people are known to avoid shiny coins or tend to rub their coins on their trousers before inserting the coins into the machine, there is no proof that this changes the way that the reels land. This is pure superstition.

Casino Slot Machines Dos and Don'ts

Do have fun. If you let go of all the tension surrounding your efforts to win all the time, you will realize that slots is one of the most entertaining games around.

Don't play more than you can afford to. Choose machines that you can afford to play the highest denominator, but nothing higher than that. High denominator machines generally pay out more and you still get to keep from making a dent in your bankroll.

Do take full advantage of comps and bonuses. Traditional land based casinos will offer you slot clubs, free offers and other perks to get you to spend your money at their establishments. Likewise, online casino sites will offer you generous welcome and loyalty bonuses to try their software. Combine your slot playing with these perks to ensue maximum value for your money.

Don't buy into slot scams. There is no such thing as the perfect slot strategy. Use common sense and use your money instead to have some awesome slot fun.

Do practice your slot playing online. Internet slot sites offer players the chance to try their software for free by simply downloading the games and playing without spending a single dime. This is a great way to get to know the software, practice your slots and learn to distinguish between the different types of slot machines and games out there.

Don't spend more time than you set out to initially at the slot machines. Look out for compulsive warning signs and seek help if you feel that you have a gambling problem.

Do have fun! Casino Slots are all about having fun and there is no reason that you should not be part of it.

Conclusion

While slots have been a popular form of gambling entertainment for over a hundred years, the online gambling industry has certainly helped it evolve into one of the greatest forms of amusement in the new millennium. Players get to enjoy the fun of slots from the comfort of their own homes and benefit from 24/7 play options off a variety of platforms. Slot tournaments, chat rooms and other fun activities go a long way in creating a great online slot community. It is no wonder then that the popularity of slots continues to grow in leaps and bounds, from year to year.

Online Slots Frequently Asked Questions

A Slot is one of the most commonly enjoyed games on an online casino and is offered in many themes to suit individual player preferences, and can award thousands via Jackpots.

Below is a list of the most commonly asked questions regarding Slots. Our FAQ will help to answer and understand how a slot works.

1. How do I play an online Slot?
2. What is the difference between download and flash-based Slots?
3. What is the best strategy for playing online Slot games?
4. Which Slots have the best odds?
5. Is the 'Gamble' feature worth it?
6. Are the outcomes really random?
7. Is online Slot play safe?
8. What is play money?
9. Does the amount of money deposited have an effect on possible outcomes?
10. Is online Slot play legal?
11. Is specific software necessary for play, and is it easy to install?
12. Is it possible to practice play for free?
13. How do I choose the best online casino for Slot play?
14. Who invented the Slot machine?
15. What is a Wild symbol?
16. What is a Scatter?
17. What are Free Spins?
18. What is a classic Slot?
19. What is a multiline Slot?
20. What is a progressive Slot?

1. How do I play an online Slot?

In order to play an online slot machine for real money you will need to sign up at the casino of your choice, one that is reputable. Once you have registered a player account and deposited cash to play with, you can select a slot from the site's list of available titles. If you're not sure which slot to play, a casino will often have its most popular slots (also often listed by highest jackpots) and other games either on the homepage or in the gaming section.

2. What is the difference between download and flash-based Slots?

Many online casinos will allow players to access their games via download or flash. This is literally the main difference: the way in which the games are accessed. Download versions require you to download the casino software to your computer. Additionally, as new games are added to the site, they will be automatically downloaded for instant access. Flash-based online slots, on the other hand, are played directly on the casino's site in your browser. You may choose the way you access the games when the option is available, but either way, the amount and types of games available will remain the same.

3. What is the best strategy for playing online Slot games?

While winning tends to be based purely on luck, there are still a few tips which can be followed during play. For example, look for a reputable casino with the highest payout percentages. Additionally, be sure to join the casino's loyalty program as playing slots is an easy way to complete wagering requirements and you may also have the chance to earn Free cash through the loyalty program while doing so. It may also benefit you to set a goal for yourself as you play: the amount you're trying to win. In this case, if/when it is achieved, you can make a point to quit to hold onto your cash. Another thing to keep in mind is that, while Progressive Jackpots are attractive, remember that they can only be won by playing the maximum bet.

4. Which Slots have the best odds?

Typically, non-progressive slots that have the lowest payout rates are going to have the best odds. Additionally, those with bigger jackpots have a higher house edge. Higher denomination machines tend to have better odds as well, but you must be willing to spend more out of your pocket per spin to play these.

5. Is the 'Gamble' feature worth it?

You have a 50/50 chance of winning during the Gamble feature and also of losing. It's really up to you to choose whether or not you want to risk your win. However, it is safer to use it when you have a smaller win that you are willing to risk, as opposed to a larger one that may really hurt you if you lose it.

6. Are the outcomes really random?

The easy answer to this question is yes. Online slots use a Random Number Generator (RNG), meaning that results are produced, based on random mathematical algorithms. However, players are recommended to look for reputable casinos, having received positive reviews, and display a clear license.

7. Is online Slot play safe?

Yes, there is no reason online slot play should not be completely safe. However, make sure that the casino you choose to play at conforms to the proper safety standards and displays a valid license.

8. What is play money?

A lot of online casinos will allow you the option to play 'for real' or 'for fun.' The 'for fun' option will enable you to utilize play money, which is virtually like fake cash, which allows you to try out a game at no cost to you. This means that any accumulated wins are void and simply for your entertainment.

9. Does the amount of money deposited have an effect on possible outcomes?

The amount of money you place in your account to begin play has no effect on possible outcomes. However, the amount of money bet per spin will. The different denominations will have higher payout percentages, meaning that placing the maximum bet per spin will result in a higher payout as opposed to the minimum bet. Additionally, a jackpot can typically be triggered only when betting the maximum amount.

10. Is online Slot play legal?

Different countries have different legal ages in which an individual can participate in online gambling. It is typically between 18 and 21. However, there are countries that do not permit online gambling at all, so be sure that you are aware of this.

11. Is specific software necessary for play, and is it easy to install?

This is dependent upon the casino you choose to play at. Downloadable online casinos will require a special software. It is typically safe and easy to install, but you are recommended to have an anti-virus program prior to doing so, to aid in avoiding any potential viruses:

12. Is it possible to practice play for free?

Many sites will offer you the opportunity to play for fun, meaning that you will have the chance to familiarize yourself with a game prior to actually putting any of your own money into it. LCB offers players access to over 3,200 Free Games here.

13. How do I choose the best online casino for Slot play?

Be sure to do your research to determine some of the most well-regarded online casinos by comparing looking at some of the following criteria: deposit requirements, minimum bets, and bonuses & their wagering requirements.

14. Who invented the Slot machine?

Charles Fey is credited as having created the first Slot machine in the 1880s.

15. What is a Wild symbol?

A Wild symbol is an icon on the reels (usually specified with 'WILD' across the front of it, or in the games 'Paytable') that has the power to substitute for other symbols in order to help create winning combinations.

16. What is a Scatter?

Scatter symbols can typically appear anywhere on the reels of a slot and do not have to appear on any particular payline to give you a win. However, the number of these symbols required to give you a win usually varies from game to game. They often reward free spins as well.

17. What are Free Spins?

A Free Spin means that the reels will spin, a turn will take place and a potential win will be revealed, without any of your credits being used. Thus, it is a Free spin. They are typically awarded in increments for receiving a certain pattern of symbols on the reels.

18. What is a classic Slot?

A classic Slot is the simplest form of a slot and include the more basic 3-reel or 5-reel games. They involve very little to no additional features and are regarded as the first types to appear in online casinos.

19. What is a multiline Slot?

A multiline Slot is a slot with more than one payline:

20. What is a progressive Slot?

A progressive Slot is a game which offers a progressive jackpot. This means that for each stake wagered, a small percentage will go towards that game's progressive jackpot prize pool, often resulting in a massive win.