Guide to Online Slots in 2019

Did you know that the most popular casino game in the world is slot machines? Be sure to check out these slot games. For many patrons, their first, and often final stop, is the slots category. You really can’t blame them if you stop and consider the fact that slots are not costly to play, require no skill, and often offer the chance to win mega jackpots. Even though slots are straightforward, it’s still worth taking a few minutes to fully understand them and their features. Continue reading for a complete guide to understanding slots.

The Variety

There is no shortage of games to try your hand at but, there are only so many ways to play twenty-one. Compared to this, there are literally thousands of slots to choose from. Each game comes with various themes, payouts, soundtracks, special features, and symbols. Some games also allow you one opportunity to win on a spin, while others offer an unlimited number of ways. There are even classic games that honour the original slot machines from way back when. My point is that if you find yourself tiring of a game, simply press escape and try another!

As slots are games of chance, there isn’t much to learn as they are by no means complicated games, which is another reason that makes them so popular. The fundamental principle with which most slots operate is; place your bet and press the spin button. If there are any winning combinations, you’ll win. Even if you don’t understand what’s going on, you’ll still get paid if you win. However, you’ll enjoy yourself more if you understand what’s happening.

Paylines

The games we see today are far more technologically advanced and fun than their ancestors. One of the biggest changes is the increased number of ways to win. Every slot has a minimum of one payline – the line across the reels (or gaming area). You win when a winning combination of symbols passes through one of these paylines. The newer video slots have dozens of paylines as opposed to just one. Generally, the winning symbol combinations appear from left to right. However, there are exceptions to this, so be sure to always go through the rules before you start playing.

Placing your bets

Before having to place your bet, you may get the chance to adjust the coin value, the number of coins per payline, how many paylines there are, as well as, the bet total. However, not all games allow you to control these aspects. Always be sure to take note of the total bet otherwise you may be shocked at the cost per spin, by then it could be too late. For a chance at the jackpot, some slots require you to play the maximum number of lines to be eligible.

Symbols

Wilds – if you land a wild symbol it can take the place of nearly all other symbols to help you make a winning payline.
Scatter symbols – these serve different functions. At times scatter symbols prompt a bonus game or produce a prize, and lastly you stand a chance win when these symbols are scattered.
Bonus symbols – these trigger bonus games, free spins, and other special features.

Multipliers

These are features that carry with them the ability to multiply your winnings by a programmed amount. For instance, there is 2x or 3x multipliers that double or triple the usual rewards.

When it comes to slots, it’s certainly not hard to understand why slot machines are the most popular casino game. They aren’t just easy to play, they are available in hundreds of themes and many of them offer the chance to win impressive jackpots. It is worth noting that even though slots are purely games of chance, there are ways to ensure you have the best odds. Congratulations on taking your first step by reading through this guide.

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About the Author

Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.