If you’ve never play a slot machine, the best way to learn is of course watch Youtube videos or visiting pages that specifically teach you how. But, if you want a Reddit-user level lowdown on it, keep reading.
So this Redditor asked:
Looking for a very basic explainer on playing slot machines
I’m going to Vegas this week and would like to play a few slot machines. I’ve read a bunch of posts about them and am still very lost. There’s a lot more technical language than I expected!
I’m not expecting to win but I would like to understand what’s happening and what I’m supposed to do. It seems like there’s more to it than just pushing a button.
If someone can give me a breakdown on what to do and what all the lingo means I would really appreciate it.
The Basics of Playing Slots
At its core, playing a slot machine is as simple as inserting money, choosing your bet, and pressing a button (or pulling a lever on older machines) to spin the reels. Once you press the button, the outcome is determined by a random number generator, and you have no control over whether you win or lose. The reels will spin and stop to show a combination of symbols, and if they align in a winning pattern (called a payline), you’ll get a payout based on the machine’s rules. Your job is just to decide how much to bet and enjoy the experience.
Understanding Key Terms: Denom and Credits
Slot machines use two important concepts to determine how much you’re betting: denom and credits.
- Denom (Denomination): This is the value of one credit on the machine, like 1¢ (penny slots), 5¢, 25¢, $1, or even $100 for high-limit machines. Most machines on a casino floor are 1¢ to 10¢, and some let you choose the denom. Look for the denom displayed on the screen, usually in the lower right corner. For example, a “penny slot” has a denom of 1¢ per credit, but that doesn’t mean each spin costs a penny.
- Credits: This is the number of units you’re betting per spin. A spin might cost 50, 75, or 100 credits, depending on the machine. The machine will show either a base credit cost (e.g., 50 credits) with buttons to multiply it (1x, 2x, 3x) or the total credits (e.g., 50, 100, 150). To find the actual cost of a spin, multiply the number of credits by the denom. For example:
- 50 credits on a 1¢ machine = 50¢ per spin.
- 88 credits on a 2¢ machine = $1.76 per spin.
- 100 credits on a 5¢ machine = $5 per spin.
Before you spin, check the denom and credit cost to understand what each spin will cost you. This helps you stay within your budget.
How to Play a Slot Machine
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Choose a Machine: Pick one that looks fun and fits your budget. Penny slots (1¢ denom) are great for beginners, but check the credit cost to ensure the total bet per spin is affordable.
- Insert Money: Slot machines accept cash, tickets (from other machines), or casino cards. The machine will convert your money into credits based on the denom. For example, $20 on a 1¢ machine gives you 2,000 credits.
- Set Your Bet: Use the buttons to select the number of credits per spin. Some machines also let you choose the denom or the number of paylines (winning combinations). Start with a lower bet to stretch your money.
- Spin the Reels: Press the “Spin” button (or pull the lever if it’s an older machine). The reels will spin and stop automatically. If you want to speed things up, pressing the button again might stop the reels faster, but it doesn’t affect the outcome.
- Check for Wins: If the symbols line up in a winning combination, the machine will show your payout in credits, which are added to your balance. If not, you can spin again.
- Cash Out: When you’re done, press the “Cash Out” button to get a ticket with your remaining balance, which you can use at another machine or redeem for cash at a cashier.
Budgeting and Choosing a Bet
To make your money last, plan for at least 200 spins. For example, if you have $200 to spend, choose a bet that costs $1 or less per spin (e.g., 50 credits on a 2¢ machine = $1). This gives you more playtime and lets you enjoy the experience without burning through your budget too quickly. Always expect to lose, as slots are designed to favor the casino. Treat it like paying for entertainment, and focus on the fun of the lights, sounds, and anticipation.
Volatility and Game Choice
Slot machines vary in volatility, which affects how often and how much you might win:
- Low Volatility: Older machines or simpler games (like those with a classic, less flashy look) tend to pay out smaller wins more often. This can mean more playtime but smaller maximum payouts.
- High Volatility: Newer, flashier machines often have bigger potential wins but pay out less frequently. If you don’t hit a big win, you might lose money faster.
As a beginner, you might enjoy older, low-volatility games to stretch your budget and get more spins. Check the machine’s paytable (usually accessible on the screen) to see the possible payouts and get a sense of the game’s style.
Extra Tips for First-Timers
- Look for Help Screens: Most machines have a “Help” or “Info” button that explains the rules, paylines, and bonus features (like free spins or mini-games). These can pop up during play and are usually straightforward.
- Set a Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you start, and stick to it. Slots are random, so don’t chase losses.
- Have Fun: Don’t overthink the technical stuff. Slots are about enjoying the moment, so pick a machine with a theme you like (movies, animals, etc.) and soak in the Vegas vibe.
- Ask for Help: If you’re confused, casino staff are happy to explain how a machine works.
Common Lingo Simplified
- Payline: A line of symbols that needs to match for a win. Modern slots can have dozens of paylines.
- Bonus Round: A special feature (like free spins or a mini-game) triggered by certain symbols. The machine will guide you through it.
- Jackpot: A big prize, often shown on the machine’s display. Progressive jackpots grow over time across multiple machines.
- Reels: The spinning columns of symbols on the screen.
- Wild/Scatter: Special symbols that can substitute for others (Wild) or trigger bonuses (Scatter).
Then another user asked as similar but good question within the same thread:
If you’re standing in front of three identical slot machines, with the only difference being their top progressive prizes—$9,583, $7,832, and $5,842—and the odds of hitting the jackpot are the same on each, you should choose the machine with the highest prize: the one with $9,583.
Since the machines are identical in every way except the progressive jackpot amounts, and the odds of hitting the top prize don’t change based on the prize’s current value, you’re better off picking the machine that offers the biggest payout. If you get lucky and hit the jackpot, you’ll win the largest possible amount. This is straightforward—higher prize, same odds, better potential reward.
However, there’s a nuance to consider about progressive jackpots. Some machines have a “maxed out” progressive where the prize caps at a certain amount (e.g., $9,999.99), and any excess contributions go toward a “reset” value for the next jackpot. For example, a jackpot might reset to $3,500 but quickly climb to $6,500 due to built-up contributions. The odds of hitting the jackpot don’t improve even if it’s maxed out, but a higher current prize (like $9,583) still offers better value for your spin compared to a lower one (like $5,842), assuming the machines haven’t just reset. In your case, none of the prizes sound like they’re at a “reset” level, so the $9,583 machine remains the best choice for maximizing your potential payout.
Know When to Seek Help
Gambling should always be fun, not a source of stress. If you find yourself feeling anxious, hiding your gambling habits, or struggling to stick to your limits, these are signs to pause and seek support. Most casinos offer resources for responsible gambling, including self-exclusion programs. You can also contact organizations like the National Council on Problem Gambling (1-800-522-4700 or www.ncpgambling.org) for confidential help.
Practical Tips for Slot Players
- Use Cash, Not Cards: Bring only the cash you’ve budgeted to avoid overspending.
- Check the Denom and Credits: Before spinning, confirm the machine’s denomination (e.g., 1¢ or 5¢) and credit cost to understand your bet per spin.
- Take Advantage of Casino Perks: Join the casino’s player’s club for rewards like free play or dining credits, but don’t let these incentives push you to play beyond your budget.
- Stay Sober: Alcohol can cloud your judgment, so limit drinking while playing to make clear decisions.
By setting limits, understanding the randomness of slots, and treating gambling as entertainment, you can enjoy your Vegas experience responsibly.