A Newbies Guide To Slot Machines

Slot machines have entertained gamblers for decades. Their flashing lights and appeal never seem to fade and they have remained a casino favourite. In fact, statistics suggest that slot machines are such a hit that they are responsible for over 70% of all casino revenues. 

If the bright colours and bedazzling reels have captured your attention (roping you into Pandora’s box), then you might find this newbies guide to slot machines more than helpful. 

Let’s start with the basics. 

What Is A Slot Machine?

Slots are games that have been designed around gambling. The focal point is the 3 or more spinning reels. The reels are placed into a box or are digitalised for online playing. Each reel has a unique symbol (picture). These pictures land randomly after a player initiates a spin by pushing a button or pulling a lever. If the symbols line up to form a particular pattern, then you will receive a prize (a payout).  The more money you have placed on each predicted outcome, the larger the payout will be. 

How to Use A Slot Machine?

Your first move should be to determine how much money you are willing to gamble with. It’s easy to get carried away in the “slot machine hype”, so we suggest that you set a budget and stick to it.

Next, you’ll need to decide your stake. Your “stake” is the amount you would like to wager per spin. This wager is then split between all the lines in the game. For example, if a machine has 50 lines, your total bet per line will be $2 divided by 50, which is 4 cents. 

Now that you’ve worked out your wager, it’s time for the fun part – to hit the spin button! Once you hit that button, the reels will spin and eventually stop in a random pattern formation. This pattern determines the outcome i.e. did you win money or lose money. Each machine will come with guidelines on which are winning patterns and which are not.  

The Pros of Slots

Slot machines can provide hours of fun and winnings – if used responsibly. Let’s take a look at their advantages: 

• The chance to win a large sum of money from a small stake is possible. 

• The games are quick, unlike table games that can take time before the outcome is revealed. 

• You don’t need any skills to play them. You won’t need to put on your poker face, it just is what it is. 

The Cons of Slots

Slots machines do come with a bad rap in some gambling communities, so maybe take note of the following: 

• There is absolutely no way of ever predicting results. There’s no logic to the game.

• You’ll never know the odds either and remember, they’re not always in your favour.

In Conclusion

With hundreds of different game types and features, slots are appealing to most gamers – or to those who simply want to pass some time.  As a beginner, we suggest that you start with some free games to help you learn the ropes before you dive in and start placing bets with real money. Remember to gamble responsibly!