Slot machines are one of the most popular casino games worldwide. They offer the chance to win a lot of money for a relatively small bet. They are also the biggest money maker for the casinos as they have a house edge of between 2% and 15%. Still if you are looking for a life changing jackpot they are hard to go past.
The History of Slots
In 1887 the one arm bandit was invented by Charles Fey of San Francisco. The game called the Liberty Bell was an instant hit that was quickly copied by other manufacturers. The real change came with the invention of Electro-mechanical slots. This game the makers more control over the odds and in turn allowed the casinos to offer bigger and bigger prizes for players.
In the mid 1970's the first video screen slot machine was released by Bally Gaming. Called
Fortune Coin the game was the start of the video slot revolution that has taken place in casinos around the world. Now you will often find multi-stage bonus features with second screens or free spins - a long way from the Liberty Belle!
Game Rules
There are not really any rules as such for playing slots. We can however tell you that in general you should always play maximum bet as this means you will always have the chance at winning the top possible prize.
Game Types
There are countless variations of slot machines on casinos floors today. They can be split up into several categories. These are;
- 3 Reel - Games with three spinning reels. Can have up to 5 pay lines
- 5 Reel - Games with five spinning reels. Can have up to 250 pay lines
- Progressive - Any game where the top jackpot grows as it is played
- Bonus Feature - Slots with an additional way to win such as free spins
For the biggest jackpots you will have to play the progressive slots. These are games that can offer huge jackpot as every bet that is made contributes a percentage to the top jackpot. Often these games will be linked between multiple casinos giving even bigger jackpots. The most famous of these games is the Mega Bucks slot machine from IGT which has paid out many $10,000,000+ jackpots.
How to Play
Slot machines are one of the easiest casino games to play. You simply sit down, insert some money into the machine with coins or notes. Select how much you want to bet and press spin. The reels then spin and come to a stop. Any winning combinations are paid and the game ends.
Some games have bonus features where you will have to pick a box or select symbols to win. If you are playing a slot with such as bonus then the game instructions will explain what to do in the bonus. These instructions can be found on the pay table or by pressing the game help button.
Sequence of Play
- Insert coins / credits
- Select your bet size
- Press the spin button or pull the handle
- The reels spin and come to a stop
- Any wins are paid and the game ends
- Start again
Where to Play Online
The following online casinos are all popular with slot players. They all offer a good range of games as well as have a range of progressive jackpots. When you join be sure to claim your welcome bonus.
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