Slots Guide – Everything You Need to Know Before You Play Online Slots

Author

Yes

Fact Checked by Alex Turner

Info
Last updated April 5, 2024
Image alt tag Guide to Slots

Online slot machines are wildly popular because they’re the easiest casino game to learn and play – not to mention they offer the potential for life-changing, multi-million-dollar jackpot winnings.

Despite the simple nature of slot machines, getting familiar with the right slots strategy before joining online casinos is crucial. And this guide to slots aims to do just that. 

Let’s go.

How to Play Slots

Playing slot machines is very simple. Before you start playing, you need to understand the types of games, and we will dive into more details later. But once you know the slot machine you want to play, this is all you have to do.

Step 1: Decide on Your Bet

Once you’ve chosen your machine, you must decide your bet size. Most machines allow you to choose the number of coins per line and the coin value. Be mindful of your bankroll; it’s essential to bet within your means.

Step 2: Spin the Reels

After placing your bet, it’s time to spin the reels. In a land-based casino, you pull the lever or press a button. With online slots, simply click the ‘Spin’ button. The reels then spin and eventually stop, revealing a combination of symbols.

Step 3: Check the Outcome

The slot machine automatically checks the spin’s outcome against the pay table. If the symbols align in a winning combination on an active pay line, the machine pays out the corresponding amount.

Step 4: Repeat or Cash Out

You can spin again using the same bet or adjust your bet based on your current bankroll and strategy. If you used a bonus with a wagering requirement, you may cash out as soon as you fulfill the required rollover.

Different Types of Slots

Image alt tag Guide to Slots 1

Casino Slot Machine Conceptual 3D Rendered Illustration. Lucky One Handed Bandit Spin.

You might be surprised just by how many types of reel-spinning slots are out there, but these are some of the most notable casino slot machines online.

Classic 3-Reel Slots

These are the digital counterparts of the original mechanical fruit machines. Often referred to as “one-armed bandits,” these games typically feature three reels adorned with classic symbols like fruits, bells, bars, and sevens.

Despite their simplicity and fewer pay lines, they offer higher payouts when a winning combination lands.

  • Example: Break da Bank by Microgaming, the popular classic slot game with an RTP of 95.75%. It offers a simplistic design with just three reels and five pay lines, but its high variance can lead to substantial wins.

Modern 5-Reel Slots

More visually appealing than their 3-reel counterparts, these games offer more paylines and, thus, more ways to win.

The additional reels allow for more diverse and complex symbol combinations, resulting in more engaging gameplay. They often come with special features such as wild and scatter symbols, adding an extra layer of excitement.

  • Example: Starburst by NetEnt – With an RTP of 96.09%, a vibrant and fast-paced game that offers both ways paylines and expanding wilds across its five reels.

Megaways Slots

A revolutionary addition to the slot machine family is the Megaways slots. Introduced by Big Time Gaming, these slots have shaken up the online gaming world by offering up to 117,649 ways to win!

The number of symbols on each reel changes with every spin, creating a dynamic gameplay experience. They also feature cascading reels, where winning symbols disappear to be replaced by new ones, potentially triggering chain reactions of wins.

  • Example: Bonanza by Big Time Gaming, a mining-themed game with up to 117,649 ways to win and an RTP of 96%. It is known for its cascading reels and unlimited win multiplier during free spins.

Progressive Jackpot Slots

These slots pool a portion of every bet into a jackpot that grows until one lucky player hits the right combination.

The anticipation of landing a massive payout adds a thrilling edge to the gameplay. Progressive machines usually have lower RTPs and hit less frequently, making them best suited for high-risk, high-reward scenarios.

  • Example: Mega Moolah by Microgaming, known for paying out record-breaking jackpots and a base RTP of 88.12%. The progressive jackpot has four levels, offering players multiple opportunities to win slot machine jackpots.

Video Slots

Video slots combine cutting-edge graphics, immersive sound effects, and many bonus features to create an engaging gaming experience. These games often have elaborate themes, from ancient civilizations to popular movies and TV shows. The real draw, however, is the variety of bonus features, including free spins, multipliers, expanding wilds, pick-me games, and interactive bonus round features.

  • Example: Gonzo’s Quest by NetEnt – This adventure-themed video slot offers an RTP of 95.97% and features like avalanche multipliers and free fall bonuses to enhance gameplay.

Multi-Payline Slots

This is the type of slot that offers multiple lines across the reels, increasing the chances of winning with each spin. The number of pay lines can vary widely from one slot to another, providing a diverse range of gameplay experiences.

  • Example: Immortal Romance by Microgaming. With an RTP of 96.86%, this game offers 243 ways to win. The vampire-themed slot offers multiple bonus features, including a randomly triggered Wild Desire feature.

Ways-to-Win Slots

These slots do away with traditional paylines. Instead, wins are triggered by matching bonus symbols in any position from left to right on the reels.

  • Example: Twin Spin by NetEnt, a game that offers 243 ways to win with an RTP of 96.55%. Its standout feature is the Twin Reel feature, where two or more reels will sync to show the same symbols.

Bonus Slots

Bonus slots enhance gameplay and increase winning potential with additional bonus features. These can include free spins, multipliers, mini-games, and more.

  • Example: Thunderstruck II by Microgaming offers an RTP of 96.65% and multiple bonus features, including the Great Hall of Spins with four different types of free spins.

3D Slots

Utilizing advanced graphics technology, 3D slots offer a more immersive and interactive gaming experience. These games feature high-quality, three-dimensional graphics that bring the game’s theme to life.

  • Example: Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde by BetSoft, which offers immersive 3D graphics, multiple bonus rounds, and an RTP of 96.17%.

Single Line Slots

These machines feature just one pay line, usually in the middle of the reels. These games hark back to the simplicity of classic slots but often feature modern graphics and bonus features.

  • Example: Cash Splash by Microgaming, offering a single payline and an RTP of 91.62%. It also includes a progressive jackpot for added excitement.

Multi-Line Slots

In contrast to single-line slots, multi-line slots offer multiple pay lines, increasing the chances of a win. The number of pay lines can range from 5 to over 100, depending on the game. The more lines you play, the higher your stake, but also the higher your potential winnings.

  • Example: Game of Thrones (243 Ways) by Microgaming, based on the popular TV show, offers 243 ways to win and an RTP of 94.86%. It also includes a free spins feature with varying multipliers.

Cluster Pays Slots

Cluster Pays slots offer a unique twist on traditional slot gameplay. Instead of winning by lining up symbols on paylines, wins are achieved by forming clusters of matching symbols.

  • Example: Aloha! Cluster Pays by NetEnt – This tropical-themed game offers an RTP of 96.42% and payouts for clusters of nine or more symbols. It also includes sticky win re-spins and free spins.

Strategies for Playing Online Slots

Image alt tag Guide to Slots 2

Las Vegas Slot Machines Casino Games Conceptual 3D Illustration. Three One Haded Bandits.

The moment you enter the online casino floor, you need to have a strategy in place. That means before you even pick a specific slot machine or claim casino bonuses. Here’s what you can do.

Up the Steps Strategy

The Up the Steps Strategy, also known as the step ladder approach, involves increasing your bet after a win and decreasing it after a loss. The idea is to capitalize on winning streaks and minimize losses during losing streaks.

Volatility-Based Strategy

Slot games vary in their volatility or variance, which refers to the risk involved. This strategy involves choosing slot games based on their volatility. If you have a small bankroll, you might prefer low-volatility slots. If you’re willing to risk more for the chance to win big, high-volatility slots may be your choice.

Fixed Maximum Payouts Strategy

This is a conservative approach to slot gaming. It involves playing slots with a fixed maximum payout as they are more likely to pay out because their jackpots aren’t progressive.

They don’t offer the massive payouts that progressive slots do, but they might provide smaller, more frequent wins. It’s a good strategy for those who prefer lower-risk gaming.

The Martingale Strategy

This popular betting system used in various casino games aims to double your bet after every loss. The idea is that the first win would recover all previous losses plus a profit equal to the original stake. However, this strategy can quickly drain your bankroll, especially during a losing streak. 

The Three-Star Strategy

It is a patience-testing strategy that involves tracking machines that haven’t paid out for a long time. Once you’ve found three such machines, you play each one once.

If any of them pay out, you continue playing; if not, you start the process again. The underlying assumption is that a machine that hasn’t paid out in a while is due for a win soon.

Bankroll Management Strategy

This strategy is fundamental to all forms of gambling at online and land-based casinos, including slots. The primary goal is to ensure you manage your funds effectively and don’t spend more than you can afford to lose.

It’s about setting a budget for your gaming activities, whether daily, weekly, or monthly, and strictly adhering to it. 

Guide to Playing Slots Online – FAQs

How to Win on Slot Machines?

Winning at slots requires a blend of strategy and chance. Begin by understanding the game’s pay table, which outlines potential winning combinations, from penny slots to maximum jackpot machines.

Choose your slot wisely, considering its volatility and Return to Player (RTP) rate. Manage your bankroll effectively, setting a strict limit and sticking to it. Finally, remember that slots are random – every spin is an independent event.

What Is the Best Slots Strategy at Online Casinos?

One of the most effective slot strategies involves studying the paytables. 

Each online slot has its unique pay table, which shows what each symbol is worth and which ones are most lucrative. It also reveals whether the game has wild symbols and scatters.

How Do Online Slot Machines Work?

Online slots use a software algorithm known as a Random Number Generator (RNG) to determine the outcome of each spin. The RNG ensures that each spin is independent and unpredictable. 

Are Online Slots Rigged?

Online slots at licensed and regulated casinos are not rigged. These casinos use Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure fair play and completely random, unpredictable outcomes.

Independent auditing agencies regularly test each Random Number Generator for fairness. However, unlicensed casinos might not adhere to these standards, so always play at reputable casino slot sites.

Is It Safe to Play Slots Online?

Playing slots online is safe if you choose a reputable, licensed online gambling site. These casinos employ advanced security measures, including encryption technology, to protect players’ personal and financial information.

Can I Win Real Money Playing Slots Online?

Yes, you can win money by spinning reels at a slot machine online. You just need to wager real money, and as long as you land the right combination of symbols, you can win real money. 

Can I Play Online Slots for Free?

Yes, you can spin reels in demo mode at most online casinos. We recommend checking out the free-play mode at any slot machine because it’s a good way of getting to know the game without risking real money.

Slots Guide: Are You Ready to Start Playing Slots Online?

We hope our guide to slots was helpful, and you are now ready to pick an online slot machine and get those reels spinning!

Please consider all the strategies discussed in this article to craft the winning combination for your preference.

And regardless of which particular machine you opt for, always check the payout percentages and bet responsibly.

The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. Playing online casino games should always be about fun. Remember that our guides and all gambling sites are only for people who are 21+. Also, check your local laws to find out if online gambling is legal in your area.

If you have a gambling addiction problem or anyone you know does call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700. In addition, the following free gambling addiction resources can be of help:

 


Noah Campbell

author

After reading a book about professional card counters, Noah had a dream of making a living playing blackjack — but ultimately decided it would be safer writing about it instead. After college, he spent nearly ten years working as a blackjack dealer before making the leap to becoming a full-time journalist. While he covers all aspects of the casino business, table games are his passion, and you can often find him testing out new games in his spare time.


NoahCampbell@casinomaxius.com

Get insider tips and tricks in our newsletter


By typing thus button you agree to terms and conditions

 

Executive Bonus Codes For Newsletter Subscribers

Sign Up Now