The Basics of Slots

When it comes to gambling, slots are among the most popular casino games. They are known for their simplicity, ease of play and big payouts. But there is more to this game than meets the eye. Understanding the basics of slot terminology can help you win more often. Here are some of the most common terms thrown around in the slot world:

Paylines

A line of identical symbols on a machine that pays out a winning combination of credits. Some machines also have multiple pay lines. These lines run horizontally, vertically or diagonally, depending on the machine. Many slot machines offer wild symbols that can substitute for other symbols to create a winning combination.

Credits

The amount of money a player can bet on each spin. In most modern slot games, the total number of available credits is determined by a number of factors, including the size of the coin bet, the number of activated pay lines and the machine’s overall payout percentage. This total is shown in the coin drop window and on the game’s paytable.

Random number generator

A random-number-generating chip inside each machine that makes a thousand mathematical calculations per second. The system assigns a number to each possible combination of symbols. When the machine receives a signal — anything from the button being pressed to the handle being pulled — the random number is checked. Then the reels are stopped at the symbol that corresponds with the given probability.

Charles Fey

The man who revolutionized slot machines by adding a lever that made them easier to operate and changing the standard poker symbols to diamonds, spades, horseshoes, hearts and liberty bells. His machine also used a new type of coin that allowed automatic payouts. He patented his invention in 1887 and started a booming business.

Winning at slots

The best way to play slots is to have a game plan in advance. Start with a budget for how much you want to spend and stick to it. Set a time limit in advance and know when to walk away. Choosing your bets wisely can make a huge difference in how long you play and your chances of winning.

Avoid believing that a particular machine is “due to hit.” While it may be true that some machines have better odds than others, it is impossible to predict what specific symbols will appear on the reels at any given time. Some players believe that casinos place winning machines at the ends of aisles to encourage other customers to play them, but this is not always the case. The true reason why someone else’s machine wins is that they were at the right spot in front of it at just the right time. This happens with every spin. There is no such thing as a machine that is “due to hit.” It’s all about luck.