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Slot Machines – a Complete Guide to Playing Slots Online

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Online Slots: A Popular Casino Game

There is no escaping the fact that online slots are by far the most popular casino game on the face of the planet – even more than roulette or blackjack. As a result, game makers tend to focus on this segment and punt out massive volumes of these games each month. There are, therefore, thousands of slots available on the market to enjoy at all the best online casinos.

They are very popular for a combination of reasons. Firstly, they are super easy to play. There is no reason to read in-depth strategy guides to learn to play well – you just need a few handy tips. This means that most people feel comfortable playing slots.

Secondly, there are so many themes and styles to choose from. You can literally choose a game theme and slot style to suit your mood on any given day. Lastly, unlike other casino games in general, slots provide fun features and bonus rounds to enthrall you and increase your chances of big wins.

Online Slots: Mechanics and Variations

Original slot machines in the past were cabinets with mechanical reels that would roll when you put a few coins into their slot and pulled on a triggering arm. If the three or more reels lined up matching symbols across designated paylines, the machine would release coins into a tray feeder as your reward.

As things progressed, the older gaming cabinets were replaced with newer ones, and the game interfaces changed from mechanical components to virtual ones. Now games play out with computerized graphics (like a video game), and you control the reel spins with buttons and toggles rather than mechanical arms. Online slots are an adaptation of the more modern gaming cabinets, but instead of heading to the casino floor to play them, you can load them up on your desktop computer or mobile phone and tablet. The principle of playing the games remains the same; however, the convenience level of playing from home is invaluable.

Playing Online Slots Optimally

Playing casino slots optimally requires two components. First, you need to know the mechanics of how the machine works. Secondly, you need to arrive with a bankroll strategy.

The mechanics of playing a slot game is very simple and usually require only two things from you:

  • Adjust your wager to suit your budget.

  • Press ‘’Spin’’ to find out the game outcome.

BANKROLL STRATS

The outcomes of slot games are completely random, and no degree of skill will ever tilt the advantage in your favor. As a fixed-odds game, all you can do is play cleverly with your bankroll and select games that suit your budget and style of play best.

How to Choose the Best Slot Game for You

The key to making the most of your slot gaming time includes finding a game that suits your approach to playing. The maths model determines the temperament of a game. By looking at the RTP percentage and volatility/variance of a slot in the game specs, you can tell more or less how the game will treat you. You can then decide if you are in the mood to play risky, high-stakes games or low-risk options.

  1. SLOT VARIANCE OR VOLATILITY:

    • Low variance games: Small swings between winning and losing streaks, ideal for beginners or low-risk play.

    • High variance slots: Longer losing streaks but potential for bigger prizes, suited for experienced players.

  2. RTP – RETURN TO PLAYER: The average return a machine will payout over its lifetime. Higher RTP is generally better.

  3. GAME TYPES:

    • Classic Slots: Traditional format, often fewer reels and paylines.

    • Video Slots: Various themes, multiple reels, rows, and paylines, with bonus rounds and great visuals.

    • Vegas Slots: Adapted from top-selling land-based machines, often with classic themes.

    • Jackpot Slots: Accumulate progressive jackpots, life-changing potential.

Popular Special Features in Slot Games

  • Wilds: Substitute for other symbols.

  • Pick Features: Bonus games where you pick items for cash prizes.

  • All Ways Pays: No fixed paylines, symbols adjacent from left to right.

  • Gamble Feature: Risk winnings to double them.

  • Colossal Symbols: Symbols larger than standard.

  • Multipliers: Multiply winnings.

  • Megaways™: Random number of paylines.

  • Free Spins: Triggered with scatters, extra rounds to win.

Recommended Slot Providers

Some top names in the slot business include NetEnt, Microgaming, Play'n GO, Quickspin, and many others.

Novomatic: The PokCas Slot Studio Choice Award

Novomatic, an Austrian-based gaming group, has been a pioneer in the slot industry since 1980. They have brought many popular games to both land-based and online casinos. Notable titles include Book of Ra Deluxe and Lucky Lady's Charm Deluxe. They've been known for their winning math models.

The PokCas Way

PokCas strives to provide readers with insights into online poker and casino games. The world of online slots is vast, but understanding the mechanics, RTP, and variance can help you choose the right game for your style. Familiarity with special features and knowing reputable providers will enhance your gaming experience.

Please note that this text contains a lot of information and might be quite lengthy for some readers. It's important to break it down and focus on specific sections or topics that interest you.