Have you found yourself struggling to understand the different mechanisms of gaming machines in an attempt to figure out how to beat slot machine technology? We get it! There are so many bits of advice and opinions out there contradicting each other, and it can get confusing – who to trust, what to believe? Which tips and tricks will work? Read on for how to spot the best paying slot machine.
Playing Slots is Easy
You might hear people say that slots are the easiest out of all the game options available at casinos today. But we would argue that that’s not entirely true. Sure – they are without a doubt among the most straightforward games to pick up. Just a few clicks of a button, followed by several more, and you’ve got it down, more or less. Simple. However, that’s pretty much where the simple part ends because when it comes to easy games, understanding and working with the odds become much more complicated.
We hate to say it, but slot machine odds are no exception. Finding the best paying slot machine means understanding the house edge. Unfortunately, the house edge is higher than it is for most other games. Plus, slots players are gambling solo. There are no opponents making decisions or other factors that force players to wait for their turn or take their time making decisions. This means that they can set their own pace and that usually translates into a steady blur that would make even Speedy Gonzales proud. If we’re talking strategies here, rushing through might not be the best way to start.
Figure out How to Play
Here’s the first step. Learn how to play slot machine games with the basics. It takes virtually no time to figure out the controls of the game – bet amount adjustment arrows, number of lines, spin, autoplay; they’re all overwhelmingly effortless to master. But what about game features? There are a lot of different types of games with varying winning paylines, prizes, and bonus features, so you should get familiar with how the rules affect your chances of winning.
One way to do this is to test out many games in the Free Play mode. Refrain from betting immediately because it’s a good idea to get a feel for a particular game before you do. You’ll have fun while also seeing how that individual game works. There are differences like graphics that don’t play a role in your winnings, but then there are more significant details like how frequently bonuses occur or how much your winnings are multiplied when certain features are triggered. These differences can significantly impact the outcome of your playing session.
Understand Payouts
If you care about winning money, you will also need to study how slot machine payouts are determined. This is one of the key elements that will determine your success. Each slot machine has a specific payback percentage – that’s an important thing to take note of because it means there is a predetermined percentage of the total amount wagered by players that get paid back to them.
The minimum percentage is usually 82%, but a solid payback percentage is somewhere between 92% and 98%. Keep in mind that slot machines with higher bet denominations typically also come with higher percentages for payouts.
Choose the Right Machine for You
If you’re asking yourself how to win at a slot machine repeatedly and without success, it’s time to rethink the games you’re choosing. Slots may be a random game with less than ideal odds, but that means that your choice of which game to play is key.
There are different kinds of gamblers. There are so many games and even variations of the same games out there. And the ones that people find themselves drawn to are reflective of their personalities, habits, and preferences. While we would love to give you a straightforward explanation of how to pick a winning slot machine, it just doesn’t exist. You need to know what you want out of the experience and what, practically speaking, is feasible for you.
Here are some guidelines. You have to take into account how much you can afford, how high your tolerance for risk is, and your general playing history. Ask yourself – when have you gotten the most enjoyment out of the game? Do you find satisfaction when you play conservatively to maximize play time? Or do you prefer to play in short, quick bursts with just a little recklessness thrown in there?
Here’s another example – as a general rule, the simpler the slot machine, the higher the payback percentage. That also means that more appealing games with flashier graphics will have worse odds. Games with progressive jackpots have impressive top prizes but lower odds of winning. So, which types interest you more? Also, keep in mind that if you want to have a shot at winning big, you have to be okay with the possibility of losing. The highest paying slot machines are going to be risky. Which brings us to our next point about momentum.
Know Yourself
You’re not playing to find the quickest way to lose all of your money at a casino… Unless, for some reason you are – in which case, you probably don’t need any of these tips or tricks for improvement. If you have a substantial bankroll and prefer to play mindlessly to unwind, then, by all means, do so.
However, if you’re not a player with an unlimited bankroll, it’s all the more important that you have a solid understanding of yourself as a gambler. How do you handle risk? Each individual has his or her unique tendencies, and you need to develop and utilize strategies to keep you in control and having as much fun as possible – whether that means a session that’s as long as possible or as exciting as possible. Don’t let nerves or frustration lead to stupid, impulsive decisions. If you realize that certain situations lead to a decrease in sound judgment, learn to avoid them, just as people learn to do in any activity.
Stay relatively sober, literally, and figuratively. Of course – you need to let loose and have fun, but never to the degree that you can’t recover from. Be cool and clear-headed, and you’ll get the most out of your slots-playing experience – we guarantee it.
Set Strict Spending Limits
This is a continuation of our previous point – what exactly do we mean when we say avoid stupid decisions? Many tips and tricks vary from source to source. This one definitely does not. No matter where you go or who you ask, the advice when it comes to spending will ALWAYS be the same: plan your bankroll carefully and stick to the plan.
Don’t even think about starting your session without having a set of guidelines for how much you are comfortable spending. Never go beyond what you can afford to lose – in fact, you should think of the specific amount for your budget and keep it in the back of your mind at all times.
While it often makes sense to play with the highest denominations, you can only do this safely if it’s within your bankroll. Don’t allow it to get in the way of your enjoyment, of course, but do train yourself to be mindful.
Think about it in the same way as normal, regularly occurring expenses that require budgeting. If you’re playing at a land-based casino, leave your debit card in your hotel room. Withdraw the specific amount that you’ve decided on, and exchange that amount of cash for chips. When you’re done, you’re done.
Or, make a rule for yourself about how much you want to win or lose before you stop playing for the night. If you’re playing online, ask a trusted friend to check in about how much you plan to spend and whether you stick to the plan or not. Gambling addiction is a very real, very serious problem. It’s an enjoyable and rewarding hobby, so you shouldn’t let the game take control of you.
Sign Up for Bonuses
Don’t underestimate the importance of bonuses. Look out for promotions and perks at your favorite real money online casinos. Casinos know that they need to keep things fresh and dynamic for their customers. They want to keep their players engaged in their experience so that they come back for more. Your loyalty means a lot to them, and they’re always looking for new rewards and bonuses to make it worth your while.
You can also find the holy grail of slot game bonuses if you dig deep enough. Sometimes an online casino offers free spins with no deposit. This is the ultimate bonus, one where you don’t have to risk any money to play. Also, check out the online casino VIP membership programs available to you. These programs offer some substantial benefits that dramatically enhance your enjoyment and potential winnings, so take advantage of the options available to you!
Accept the Game for What It Is
There are multiple sources out there saying that slots are often thought of as simply a way to lose money. And yet, it’s still one of the most popular games out there. Why? Because it’s just fun – it’s visually appealing, and the outcome of each spin is a mystery you’re waiting to uncover. Slots have been around for a long time, and if you love to play, then you need to be able to accept the game for what it is. The house advantage is something you just need to recognize as the price for playing something that brings you happiness and excitement.
How Do You Improve at Playing Slots?
Practice often, develop an understanding of the game, decide what you want out of it, play the game responsibly, and accept it for what it is. The odds can be difficult to beat, so look out for ideal payouts and bonuses to enhance your play.