Slot Game Strategy

There's no such thing as Slot game strategy?! Oh yes, there is an element of judgment and skill in choosing not only the right online Slot games, but how to play them.

Most Slot lovers just want to relax and enjoy the ease of Slot play. The sounds and spinning symbols are music to their ears. It's a good bet that most Slot players though, want to win. Is it a bad thing to use a little strategy at Slot games?

There's more to Slot strategy than counting Slot symbols, paylines, pay table payouts, comps and sign up bonuses. However, you may take those into consideration. Knowing Slot game strategies could really improve your results and enjoyment while still giving you a shot at the big jackpots.

With about 1,000 online casinos in operation on the Web, there are thousands of different Slot game variations to suit any gambler's taste. Many players make their choices of Slot games based on some untested assumptions though. Thus they don't make the most of their bankroll.

What's in a Slot Game Anyway?

Slot game players may believe good luck will pay off bigger for them than strategic knowledge of a game's rules. On the other hand, they may like the sound, movement, game look or theme and the big jackpots too. There's something exciting for Slot lovers in the randomness of those fickle reels of fate or even in having some pop entertainment theme (e.g., Elvis Slots, Munster Slots) stamped on the interface. And it's always nice to think the gods are smiling down at you too.

Some players like to relax and enjoy a simple 3 reel Slot game with a single payline. A few Slot games on the Web have pay tables so simple a monkey could calculate the odds on his fingers. I have to say I've played Slots at a few online casinos that bored me after about 5 spins and I doubt a monkey would stay much longer. After playing their few different machines, I decided to try another casino. I think variety is a good thing especially when it gives you what you want. Why play a dull game when something better is available?

Figure 2 Slot game with great graphics and easy to use.

Perhaps you yourself like the interactive element of 8 paylines, 5 reels and 16 symbols and 5 different coin denominations? Did you know there is a slot game available that has an extra interactive bonus round? It's called Galaxi2000.

Fortunately, Slot games take care of the counting and payouts, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't take notice of the makeup of the game and work it to your advantage. Trying a new game because it might just give you a boost of energy and fun.

Jackpot Games Getting a Bad Rap

Since there are different prize ranges and odds in each game, it is reasonable to assume that each machine has a different payout percentage. Yes, they all use the same random number generator, but machines that pay out more often with smaller prizes probably have better odds of winning. However, there are games with multimillion-dollar progressive jackpots that still have frequent winners. The payout table tells us why.

If you count the number of symbol combinations you need to win a big jackpot, you'll see that it's high. It has to be. Otherwise, a casino would go out of business. The jackpot combinations though are a separate issue that don't effect how many small prizes are won.

If you've avoided playing the progressive jackpot games thinking that the payout rate is down around 10%, then take another look. These games may have an excellent payout rate for regular play that is separate from the jackpot. The jackpot is merely icing on the cake - an extra incentive. Think of it as a regular game with a little added feature.

These games are often the casino's flagship or marquee game.

Check when the jackpot is actually available. If it's available on 25 cent coins then play 25 cent Slots and you'll be getting the best chance to win big.

Where's the "Loose Slot Machine"?

Online casinos may have the "loose game", ones that pay out better, although it's not because of the random number generator. Each game is a virtual game, therefore each player gets the same odds. If you believe in loose slot games it is more likely to be their big marquee game just like the machine located at the main doors of a land-based casino. This is the one they want you to win.

Tip: Take a look at the casino's monthly winners list and see which games people are winning and then check out the reels, paylines, symbols and bonus symbols to figure out which games are "loose."

Slot Games Strategy: Calculating Odds

You'll need a calculator and a spreadsheet to figure all that out and each game has its own unique combination of reels, symbols, coin denominations and prizes. This slot strategy stuff can be hard work.

GalaxiWorld.com Casino as an example, has games using 1 to 8 paylines, 3 to 5 reels, bonus reels or symbols, hidden reels, double and triple bonus symbols and coin denominations of a nickel up to $100. Prizes vary from 10 cents up to over $2 Million. Focus your strategy on the $2 Million.

If a game appeals to you, count the number of reels and multiply by the number of symbols. If it's a big number, you've probably got some long odds when there's only one payline. Most times, the game has several paylines and that improves your odds considerably. The payout table though might tell a different story. It might show a good payout for only one cherry.

GalaxiWorld.com Casino has an 8 payline, 3 reel, 7-symbol slot game called 8th Dimension. It has double jackpot symbols as well as a 4X multiplier on two bonus symbols. It's fun, visually animated and suspenseful. This is one you'll like.

You really would need a complicated spreadsheet analyzer to figure out the potential combinations and their payoff. You can probably find one by doing a search on Google if you've got the time.

If you like playing time, then go for the nickel slot games but remember the prizes may be relative to your bet value. They'll keep you busy anyway. If you're playing to actually win some decent money, then dollar slots might turn out to be your best bet.

Don't Be Fooled

The slot games at the biggest casinos don't necessarily pay out better than smaller casinos who may actually have a better profit margin because of lower marketing costs. Remember that jackpot slots may be your best bet especially when the game has fewer symbols and bonus symbols.

Good Strategy

Manage your money well and play a coin denomination you can handle.

Blowing all your money on a few spins is not wise. Play the game that has the right number of reels, paylines and payouts. The more you play, the more chances you'll have at winning big. Good luck playing your slot strategy at your favorite online casino. Play long and have fun playing.