How to increase your chances of winning at Slots

Slot games are one of the most popular products in the online casino industry, and there are thousands. These are all developed by various software providers who all vary in terms of what they specialise in. Some companies have been around since the 1990s, while others started as late as 2014.

However, even slots created in the 1990s still stand the test of time and are just as popular today as they were when they were first released, while some even have sequels.

What many new players do though is jump straight into playing a slot based on things such as the niche they are in or how attractive they look. However, there are several things that can be taken into account, especially if you want to increase your chances of winning.  Let’s explore what some of these are.

Understanding paytables

Before you first start playing online slots, one of the best things to look out for is the paytable. This gives you vital information such as how many symbols a game has, what the payouts are, and how to unlock the bonus rounds if there are any available. A paytable also has other vital technical information that for the more seasoned players can significantly influence whether they decide to play them. These are explained in detail below!

Get to know the RTP

This is one of the most important details of an online slot and stands for Return-to-Player which is displayed as a percentage. The RTP of a slot is essentially an indicator of how much a player can expect to win back on average while they are playing.

For example, if a slot has an RTP rate of 97 percent, then this means that for every £100 wagered, a player can expect to win back £97 over an average amount of time if they play for long enough. This is worked out using a complex algorithm and statistical analysis and every slot differ in its RTP rate. Like all of the technical factors of a slot, this is worked out by the software providers who create them. Generally, those slots with a higher RTP are more favoured by those players who know what they are doing and can increase your chances of winning.

Different slot volatility levels

Online slots also have different volatility levels, and players who are more experienced also pay attention to these because they can make a significant difference. Let’s look at the different volatility levels that can be found in online slots and their implications.

Low Volatility

If a slot has a low volatility level, it means that a player can be assured of payouts frequently, however, for lower amounts of money. This can be especially good for players who do not have a big initial bankroll, particularly those playing jackpot slots.

High Volatility

Essentially this is the opposite. Slots with a high volatility level will pay out less frequently on average, though for higher amounts, which means that it is advisable to have a higher starting bankroll. However, you might get lucky from the start and get a big win. If this is the case, find another slot with a high volatility level because this might happen again!

Medium Volatility

These are quite rare to find, though they do exist. These are in the middle of high and low volatility slots regarding the frequency and amount in terms of the payout. Some players prefer medium volatility slots because the payouts are slightly higher on average than low volatility slots, while they can be quite frequent.

Other Volatility Levels

It is also possible to find slots with ‘low to medium’ volatility and ‘medium to high’ volatility though these are even rarer to find.

The RNG and how it works

This stands for Random Number Generator and every slot game that a licensed software provider develops has one. The main principle of online slot games is to make sure that all outcomes are random. As a result, it means that the randomness of every possible outcome has to be programmed into the logic of the software during the development stage.

A random number generator is made up of a highly complex mathematical algorithm to ensure fairness, using two important attributes which are then applied to the slot and its gameplay which are:

• No pattern should be repeated
• A standard deviation is applied so that the distribution of the possible outcomes is even over a long time period.

It is the job of the random number generator in online slots to produce numbers for every action that a player takes, which then presents an outcome for the player. There are millions of different possibilities, though the most crucial element of a slot is that it has no memory due to the random number generator.

10 tips for playing online slots

As well as understanding the above technical factors of online slots, there are several things that you can do to increase your chances of winning. However, the key thing to remember is that slot games are completely random.

Read the instructions

Most online slots have a couple of paragraphs that describe the aims and objectives of the slot and what the player needs to do. This could include what you have to do to unlock a bonus round and the various symbols that a slot has. If you are new to slots, this can make a big difference before you start playing.

Play on demo mode

The majority of slots, especially the newer ones, also offer players the chance to play on demo mode first, which allows them to get used to how they work without having to risk any real money. A great tip for playing on demo mode is to find a slot that has a bonus round because this can provide you with a good insight into how these work. Playing on demo mode can be a great idea if you are new to slots.

Avoid drinking alcohol

Perhaps more practical advice, though nevertheless still useful. Some players prefer to have a drink while playing, though alcohol can affect a player’s ability to make a decision and ultimately lead to depositing more often. Instead, drinking a soft drink, coffee, or even water can help to improve your concentration and help with your decision-making.

Choose the device that is right for you

There are some amazing devices out there for slots – even smartphones have incredible technology, though these could be distracting while you are playing, especially if you are getting messages or your device rings.

A tablet can provide a player with a good alternative option, while more importantly, the screen is big enough, with the device still being portable enough. However, whichever device you choose to play on makes sure that you have a strong WiFi connection!

Set a limit and stick to it

It is quite common to become hooked on a slot game, especially if you are trying to land a jackpot and you are chasing your losses as a result. Some sites even let you choose a daily deposit limit, which is then saved and prevents you from depositing more.

Remember that the slot is going nowhere, and you can always return the next day to try your luck.

Find the right slot for you

Sometimes, you can have all of the technical information that you need, though you simply might not like the slot. If you are not playing to win money (which should not be the goal), it is worth finding a slot based on a subject you are interested in.

There are many different categories of online slots such as film and television, history, mythology, and even sport, so essentially, there could be something for everyone.

Take breaks

Even the colours in slots and how they are presented can be addictive for players, and it can be hard to tear themselves away. However, by taking breaks, you come back to reality for a bit and prevent yourself from becoming too addicted.

Look for the software provider

It can sometimes be the case that you have enjoyed a slot by a particular software provider and are keen to see what others that they have available. Notable developers such as Microgaming and NetEnt have had a reputation for creating quality slots since the 1990s and continue to exceed expectations. However, there are also other good software developers as well. Some sites even let you search for a slot by the software provider.

Quit while you are ahead

Knowing when to walk away can be a difficult decision to make. Some players often win big and then stake it into another slot in an attempt to increase their winnings and then ultimately lose it, or in the worst-case scenario, end up depositing more and losing that. Before you start playing, make a note of the number of winnings that you would be happy with and stick to it.

Find slots with bonus rounds

Slots that have bonus rounds can significantly increase your chances of winning a substantial amount due to multipliers, boosting your winnings. There are hundreds of slots that have bonus rounds that can pay out up to over 40x your initial stake. Here, you need to look out for things like Wilds, which are high-value symbols, as well as triggers.

FAQs

While we have provided a comprehensive guide to online slots strategy, we appreciate that you may still have questions about how they work, which we have anticipated and provided answers for below!

Is there any strategy for slots?

The most important thing to remember about online slots is that they are completely random, and as a result, all outcomes are based on luck. While it is possible to follow tips that can help you increase your chances of winning, it is impossible to directly influence a slot’s outcome.

What is the best slot machine strategy?

There is no right or wrong answer to this because every player will have their own way of playing and may apply their own tactics. However, if you use some of the tips provided on this page, then this will stand you in good stead!

How do you pick a winning slot machine?

It is impossible to choose a winning slot machine; however, the information displayed on the paytables can help you decide which slot you choose. The RTP and volatility levels for example, might aid you in your choice.

Which slot machines pay the best?

This really depends on what you are looking for. Progressive jackpot slots have winnings in their millions or 10s of millions; however, the chances of winning these are very slim. Ultimately, if you are looking for regular payouts that will help your bankroll, then low volatility slots can be a good choice.

How do I know that a slot is fair?

If the slot you choose to play is listed on a licensed website by a regulator such as the UKGC (UK Gambling Commission), then this means that the slot will be fair. This is because it is a requirement of the UKGC and other regulators for the online casino to carry out regular checks using testing agencies such as eCOGRA. These ensure the fairness of slots.