How to play online slots

Last updated on: July 10, 2024

Online slots are online casino games that are virtual versions of classic slot machines. You place a bet, spin the reels, and if the symbols align, you win. Featuring diverse, fun themes and bonus features, they offer a simple and engaging way to play and win from home or on your mobile gaming devices.

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Common vocabulary of online slots

When playing various online casino slots, you’ll come across specific terminology that’s helpful to know:

  • Reels: The vertical lines of symbols that spin when you play the game.
  • Paylines: Lines that can be straight, zig-zag, or various patterns, where winning combinations of symbols must land to win.
  • Symbols: The images on the reels that form combinations. Common ones include cherries, bars, sevens, and thematic images based on the slot’s design.
  • Wilds: Special symbols that can substitute for other symbols to create winning combinations.
  • Scatters: Symbols that can trigger bonuses or free spins, typically without needing to be on a payline.
  • Bonus Round: A separate game feature triggered by certain symbols, offering additional wins or free spins.
  • Free Spins: Spins that do not require a wager to play and are often part of a bonus feature.
  • Jackpot: The largest prize available in a slot game, which can be fixed or progressive.
  • Progressive Jackpot: A jackpot that increases each time the game is played but the jackpot is not won.
  • RTP (Return to Player): The percentage of all the wagered money a slot will pay back to players over time.
  • Volatility: A measure of how often and how much a slot machine is likely to pay out. High volatility slots pay out large sums infrequently, while low volatility slots pay out smaller sums more often.
  • Bet Max: A button that sets the maximum bet on all paylines.
  • Autoplay: A feature that allows you to set the reels to spin automatically for a certain number of times.

Understanding these terms can greatly enhance your online slot experience, helping you navigate and enjoy the popular slots game more fully.

Video slots

Understanding slot odds

Slot odds are the probabilities associated with slot games that determine how likely you are to win on a spin. Here’s an easy way to understand best slot games and odds:

  • Random Number Generator (RNG): Online slots use a RNG to ensure that each spin’s outcome is completely random. This means every spin is independent, and past spins don’t affect future spins.
  • Return to Player (RTP): This is a percentage that indicates the average amount of money that will be returned to players as winnings over time. For example, if a slot has an RTP of 95%, it means that, on average, the game will return $95 for every $100 wagered.
  • Volatility: This describes how often and how much you can expect to win during a session. High volatility slots will have longer losing streaks with occasional large wins, whereas low volatility slots will have more frequent but smaller wins.
  • Hit Frequency: This refers to how often a slot machine will stop on a winning combination. For example, a slot with a hit frequency of 10% will result in a winning combination about 10% of the time.
  • Paylines: The more paylines a slot has, the more chances there are to win. However, this doesn’t necessarily increase the odds, as the RNG and the game’s design will balance out the win possibilities.
  • Jackpots: Slots with large progressive jackpots usually have worse odds for regular wins because a portion of the RTP is tied up in the jackpot prize, which only a few players will win.

Understanding these concepts can help you choose the best slots and which slot games to play based on your risk tolerance and playing style. Remember, slots are games of chance, and there is no strategy that can guarantee a win

What are the different types of online slots?

Online slots come in a variety of formats and styles, catering to different preferences and playstyles. Here are the different types of online slots games you can find:

  • Classic Slots:
    • Often designed to resemble traditional slot machines with 3 reels.
    • Usually have simple gameplay and symbols like fruits, bars, and sevens.
  • Video Slots:
    • Feature more reels (usually 5) and multiple paylines, often 25 or more.
    • Offer rich graphics, themes, and animations.
    • Typically include bonus features like free spins and mini-games.
  • Progressive Slots:
    • A portion of every bet contributes to a progressive jackpot.
    • The jackpot continues to grow until it is won.
    • Can be standalone machines or linked across a network of slots for a larger jackpot.
  • 3D Slots:
    • Utilize 3D graphics to enhance visual experience and engagement.
    • Often include storylines and themed game features.
  • Interactive Slots (i-Slots):
    • Offer interactive bonus games where player choices can affect the outcome.
    • May include evolving storylines as you play through different levels.
  • Megaways Slots:
    • Feature a variable number of symbols on each reel, leading to hundreds or thousands of ways to win.
    • Offer a unique and changing reel structure with each spin.
  • Virtual Reality (VR) Slots:
    • Require VR headsets and provide an immersive slot experience.
    • Players can interact with a fully 3D environment.
  • Mobile Slots:
    • Optimized for play on smartphones and tablets.
    • May include special features that utilize mobile device capabilities.
  • Multi-Payline Slots:
    • Offer multiple paylines, increasing winning chances.
    • Can include anywhere from 10 to 1000 paylines.
  • Multipliers:
    • Feature symbols that multiply winnings by a specific figure.
    • Can be found in the base game or bonus rounds.

Each type offers a unique gaming experience, from classic, straightforward gameplay to complex games with advanced features and graphics. When choosing casino slot games to play, consider your gameplay preference and the level of complexity you enjoy in a game.

FAQ - How to play online slots

Online slots and those playing online slots and casino games use a Random Number Generator (RNG) to determine the outcome of each spin. This ensures that each spin is independent and has an equal chance of winning.

Look at the game’s Return to Player (RTP) rate, volatility, theme, bonus features, and the number of paylines. These factors can influence the enjoyment and potential winnings from the casino game.

Yes, many online casinos offer free online slots where you can play free games without wagering real money. This is a great way to try out new games and learn the rules without any real money at risk. Real money slot games can be played when the player is more experienced.

Yes, if you play at reputable online casinos. Legitimate online slots are regulated and use RNGs to ensure fair play. It’s important to play at licensed online casinos that are audited and tested for fairness.

Progressive slots are games where a small percentage of every bet is added to a jackpot that progressively grows until it’s won. These slot machines can offer large payouts for win jackpots, but typically have a lower RTP for non-jackpot wins.