Slot Games: Meaning, Types And Differences

There are many different types of slot games and they all have their own specific features. However, the basic process is similar for all of them. While one can try each of them through a Pragmatic Play Demo round to learn the differences and basics of each type of slot game, it may still confuse some people since many slot games have similar rules and regulations. In this article I will explain what you should look out for when choosing a slot machine or a slot game to play on an online casino platform. 

Types of slots 

The first thing that you need to consider when looking for slots is the type of slot games you want to play or try your luck on. There are several different types of slots available in online casinos. Let’s take a quick look at some of these. 

  • Free spins

These are the most common type of slot machines you will find on any site. They usually give players a certain number of free spins after making a deposit or signing up with the casino. You can also get free spins by completing special tasks such as playing particular games. Free spins come in various forms – from just one spin to a dozen spins. The number of free spins you receive depends on how much money you put into the game. If you win big during your free spins, you may keep the winnings. So, make sure to choose a slot where there are good chances of winning.

  • Progressive jackpots

Progressive jackpot slots are often found only on high-end sites because it costs more to build them than regular slots. The progressive jackpot is created when someone wins a slot game multiple times. This means that every time the player gets a win, the prize increases. Because of this, you can expect higher prizes on progressive jackpot slots. If you are planning to play on a progressive jackpot slot, make sure that you understand the rules about how long the jackpot lasts before it expires. For example, if you win a jackpot, you could lose it if no one plays it within seven days.

  • Scratch cards

Scratch cards are very popular among gamblers. A scratch card is an image printed onto paper that has a code underneath it. When you scratch off the code, you reveal a hidden picture. Some people believe that scratching off the card gives them a chance at winning real cash. It is true that you might be able to win a jackpot if you scratch off the correct code, but this isn’t really something you can count on. Instead, scratch cards are best used as an entertaining activity. Many people like to hold contests, where they try to scratch off as many codes as possible before time runs out. 

  • Pay lines

Pay lines refers to the number of reels that spin once when you play a slot machine. You can choose between three and five reels. Three reel slots are considered low risk, while five reel slots are considered higher risk. Low-risk pay lines usually offer lower odds, which makes it easier to win smaller amounts. Higher risk pay lines usually offer better odds, which makes it harder to win bigger sums of money. 

  • Payouts

This refers to the amount of money you will get back when you win. The payout percentage is the ratio of the total winnings to the amount of credits spent on the slot. You cannot change the payout percentages, so you have to decide whether you would rather play a slot with a high payout percentage or a low payout percentage. 

If you don’t know what kind of slot you want, then you should start with the lowest-risk pay lines. This way you will not have to worry about losing too much money. However, you should keep in mind that low-risk pay lines are less fun because they offer fewer opportunities for winning. 

How to play slots 

Once you’ve decided on which slot machine you want to play, you need to choose the right settings. Each slot machine offers different options for adjusting the settings, so check out each one carefully to see which ones you want to use. 

Let’s take a look at some of the things you’ll need to set: 

  • Betting limits

You can adjust the betting limit to whatever level you like. Usually, a maximum bet is required, but you can choose to set the minimum bet instead. 

  • Automatic play

This allows you to continue spinning the reels without having to do anything else. Most slots have auto play enabled. 

  • Auto Spin

Sometimes, you will find that a slot doesn’t allow you to manually spin the reels. You can still play the slot, though, if you enable the auto spin option. This feature spins the reels automatically based on your bets. 

  • Stop/Reset button

This button stops you from continuing to spin the reels until you hit the stop button again. 

  • Bonus rounds

Some slots have bonus rounds, which are extra rounds that are triggered when you land on a special symbol. These rounds give you extra opportunities to win even larger prizes. Bonus rounds are typically triggered by landing on a special symbol; however, they can sometimes occur randomly, too.

  • Special symbols

Certain symbols have unique effects on the slot machine. You will notice these symbols when you play the slot. If you have landed on any of these symbols, you have won a prize. 

Some other important aspects of a slot machine include: 

  • Number of paylines

This refers to the number of rows that appear on the screen when you play a slot machine. 

  • Maximum bet

You can choose to increase the maximum bet or decrease it. Increasing the maximum bet usually results in higher returns on your winnings. 

  • Minimal bet

This is the minimum bet you can place per spin. It is usually displayed next to the maximum bet. 

  • Wagering requirements

Wagering requirements refer to the percentage of your winnings you must wager before you can withdraw those funds. 

Keep in mind that all of the above information is presented in general terms. Each slot machine offers its own specific details, so you should always read the fine print before using a new slot machine. 

Conclusion 

It is easy to get overwhelmed by all the information about slots available when you visit an online casino. However, knowing what things to look for will help you to avoid unnecessary risks and save yourself time. Now you know just about everything you need to get started.