Our ultimate guide to winning slots online takes you through the top tips you need to play the game. We look at RTPs, volatility, strategies, and more.
Slots are the most popular games to play in online and land-based casinos. Thousands of slots are available, so how do you pick which slot to play? It is no secret that slots are mostly a game of chance, but knowing how to play them and how they work can increase your chances of winning slots and trying to nudge the odds more in your favor.
In this article, the experts at Bet on Reels will guide you through how to play and what to look for in a winning slot. We will explain what an RTP is, talk about the variance or volatility of a slot, and how to limit your losses.
How Do Slots Work?
The spin’s outcome is decided when you hit the spin button. This is because all slot machines operate on a Random Number Generator, even the time-old classics, and nothing you do will influence this. An RNG chip generates an enormous number of numbers and decides the outcome of a spin.
What is an RTP and Variance or Volatility?
The RTP, or Return To Player, is the theoretical percentage that a slot will pay back over an extended period of time. It might not be during your gaming session because this percentage is calculated over millions of spins. The RTP can usually be found in rules, the paytable, or a quick internet search. It can usually be found in the game description of the casino you are playing at.
For the most part, the average RTP ranges from 94% – 96%, and the agreement is that the higher the RTP, the better the chances you have of winning slot bets.
Variance or volatility, in summary, is how often the slot pays out and at what amount. Low variance means that the slot will pay out frequent small amounts, a medium pays out slightly more but not as frequently, and high means the slot pays out more significant amounts but not as frequently.
Know Your Slot
Don’t bet blindly. Knowing the rules, the RTP, and the slot variance will help, but you also need to be familiar with the type of slot you are playing on. Here are a few examples of the different types of slots you can find:
- Classic slots: These generally have 1 – 5 payline and a simple paytable and layout. They usually don’t have enormous wins, a high RTP, and low to medium variance.
- Video slots: Have 5-100 paylines, more complicated gameplay, bonus features, mini-games, mini jackpots, and big wins. The RTP is usually around 95-96%.
- Progressive slots: Similar to video slots, except they have a jackpot. These jackpots are generally very big. These slots have a lower RTP of around 94-95%.
- Megaways slots: These are thrilling to play and come with many winning ways, much more than any other slots. They also have high RTPs and incredible payout amounts.
Stick To Your Strategy for Winning Slots
Go in with a plan. Read the rules, paytable, and reviews of the slot you want to play. Understanding the symbols and features such as free spins, stacked wilds, or a buy-in feature is essential.
Never play with money you can’t afford to lose and set limiters. Start with slots with a lower variance to build up your bankroll. If you have a smaller bankroll, avoid playing on Megaways or progressive slots to start with.
Practice playing your chosen slot in the demo mode so that you can understand all the mechanics and how it works with each spin.
Look for the best sign-up or deposit offers. This doesn’t increase your chances of winning slots but playing with free money helps to boost your bankroll.
FAQ
Q: Is the RTP for a particular slot the same at every casino?
A: No, the casino can adjust some slot RTPs. Check the rules, paytable, and reviews for the exact RTP every time.
Q: Which slots are best for beginners?
A: Classic and video slots are great to start with. They usually have good RTPs and low to medium variance. You also don’t need much of a bankroll to play these.
Q: Can I practice playing the slot I have chosen to play on?
A: Yes, most slots have a demo or free mode for you to practice on.