How to Read Slot Machines and Spot the Best Paylines
The majority of slot players know these games inside out. Terms like wild symbols, free spins, and multipliers are second nature. But if you’re new to these games, they can be very confusing. So, in this guide, we’ll show you the tricks to understanding slot machines, giving you the 101 on how slot machines work and what their features mean.
How to Read Slot Machine Lines
Old-school slot cabinets had a single payline across the center of the screen. Modern slots have multiple lines.
To win, you must match a specific number of symbols (usually 3) across one of these lines. The symbols must be on consecutive lines, and most connect from the left of the reels to the right.
There are exceptions, though:
- Pay Both Ways: The lines connect right to left and left to right.
- Pay Anywhere: Also known as Cluster Pays, these pay for connections anywhere on the grid.
- Megaways/Trueways: These mechanics randomize the rows so that every spin can reveal anywhere from a handful of paylines to over 100,000.
How to Read Slot Machines: Understanding Symbols
Slot symbols usually depict illustrations that match the theme, such as Egyptian gods for ancient Egyptian themes.
- Wilds: These symbols will replace most others, except for special symbols like scatters.
- Scatters: All scatters pay regardless of where they appear. They don’t need to be on a specific payline. Old-school scatters trigger instant payouts, while modern ones usually unlock free spins.
- Bonus Symbols: Like scatters, but they trigger a bonus feature.
How to Read Slot Machine Payouts
Slot machines either pay in coins or multiples.
A multiple is simply a multiplication of your stake. So, if a symbol connection offers 50x, you’ll get 50 times your stake, turning $1 into $50.
As for coins, they are set by the user. You determine the value and number of coins per spin. So, if the value is $1 per coin and you win 200 coins, that’s $200.
How to Read Slot Machine RTPs and Volatility
The return to player (RTP) is calculated by running millions of simulated spins and showing the percentage of the stake returned. It’s expressed as a percentage, often between 94% and 98%; the higher it is, the greater your chance of winning.
The volatility determines the frequency of those payouts. High volatility means wins will be infrequent but on the high side. Low volatility pays regularly but does so in small amounts.
Learn how to master slot machine volatility in our guide.
Features and Unique Mechanics
In addition to standard paylines and symbol combinations, many slots also introduce additional features. Knowing how these work is key to understanding slot machines:
- Free Spins: The player is given a predetermined number of free spins.
- Multipliers: The payout is boosted by the multiplier shown. A win of $10 with a 4x multiplier would return $40.
- Re-spins: The reels are spun again at no extra cost.
- Wild Features: Sticky Wilds remain during respins. Walking/Roaming Wilds move around. Multiplier Wilds substitute for other symbols while adding a multiplier.
- Cascading Reels: Also known as Avalanche and Tumbling Reels, this feature destroys winning symbols and adds new ones, with the reels spinning again.
Summary: Slot Machines Explained
Slot machines might look complicated, but once you learn the basics—discussed above—you’ll be spinning like a pro. If you get stuck, look for the menu/paytable, which contains everything from the symbol payouts and payline positioning to the features and rules.
Remember always to create a bankroll first. As with blackjack bankroll strategy, setting a slot bankroll is very important.
Slots Common Queries
How to read slot machines?
Look for the most significant symbols and locate the paylines. Find more info in the help file.
How to read slot machine lines?
Most move from left to right and form connections across consecutive reels.
How to read slot machine payouts?
Payouts are shown as multipliers of the stake for that spin, so 20x means you’ll get 20 times your wager.
How do I pick a winning slot machine?
Look for one with a high RTP to increase your odds.
ow to tell which slot machine will hit?
If you’re playing timed jackpot slots, wait until the time period is nearly over, and spin if the jackpot hasn’t been claimed.
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