On this page, you'll find a comprehensive overview of how to play slot machines. We take a look at everything from finding the right slot machines to play, to the best slots strategy and even slots cheats. If you're new to slots, our helpful guide to playing slots games will get you up to speed. Jul 28, 2011 To play slot machines, play the multiplier machine by betting a small amount to try and win a small amount or a large amount to try and win a large amount. Alternately, play the buy-a-pay to bet more money in return for more chances of winning rather than winning a larger amount of money.
Slots are some of the most fun, entertaining and unique games in a casino, but they can also be quite challenging. This is why it’s a good idea to learn how to play slots properly, as this will bring you a great way to acquire the results you want.
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On this page, you'll find a comprehensive overview of how to play slot machines. We take a look at everything from finding the right slot machines to play, to the best slots strategy and even slots cheats. If you're new to slots, our helpful guide to playing slots games will get you up to speed. It will also help you feel right at home playing any of our free slots in no time!
Finding The Right Slots Machine
So you're ready to play slots games but there are thousands of slots out there. To move on and learn how to play slot machines. How do you go about finding the games that are right for you? There are a number of ways you can quickly & easily narrow down your options. For example, a slots player might:
1. Look for games with a specific number of paylines
Some slots players choose games only after subjecting the paytables to much scrutiny. Finding out how many paylines there are. As well as other factors such as the cost of a 'max bet'. Covering all paylines with the maximum amount of coins that can be wagered on any one spin.
2. Look for jackpots
Some slots players will firstly prioritize slots games that have a progressive jackpot. Then secondly further prioritize slots games based on which slots games have the biggest jackpot prize pools up for grabs.
3. Look for budget specific games
You might want to choose games based on your budget. For example, if you're starting off with a small amount of cash in the pot. Why not opt for a penny slot type game and get plenty of spins for your money?
4. Look for a game by a particular developer
Many slots players have a slots developer they prefer such as Microgaming, Net Entertainment or Betsoft. However, finding games by specific developers assumes you have already got some knowledge of what types of games each developer creates. For example, Betsoft is famous for their brilliant 3D slots games. Different casinos offer games by different developers. Our recommended casinos listings let you easily see which developer (or 'software type') powers the games at each casino.5. Look for a game with a suitable theme
Some players prefer exciting themes. Featuring things like robots, monsters, ninjas or even all 3 at once! While other players gravitate to games that are more tranquil, cuter, more cartoony. Or perhaps more glamorous - games themed on shopping, luxury items and fashion for example.
6. Look for games with a specific feature
Many players 'mix up' their slots play. Opting to try different types of slots games as their mood takes them. However, some slots players will focus play only on the slots games that they deem to be the most important. Including games that offer specific special symbols (Wilds, Scatters, Multipliers etc). Games which offer specific features such as bonus games, gamble games, and free spins. Many players are of the opinion that the more special features a game has the better!
7. Look for a specific type of slot
If you're totally new to slots games then you can't go wrong with the classic slots as a way to dip your toe in the water. However, there are many more options on the menu apart from Classic slots. Of course, so you might want to choose from the video slots, 3d slots or more.
Here at Free Slots 4U we group our games by type so you can easily find a specific game type listed in our menus. For example, we have listings for Bonus Slots, 3 Reel and Classic Slots and Progressive Jackpot slots games.
8. Look at a game's payout rate
Another factor many players look out for is a game's payout rate. When you're playing slots at a casino or online. You should be able to see the payout rate. Typically between 82% and 98%. Be aware, however, that a payout rate of, say, 98% does not mean you are guaranteed to win 98% of the time. We explain why and cover payout rates in more depth in our Slot machine guide.
Whatever methods you use to pick your slots there's always the option to play games for free in demo modes. So you should certainly take advantage of that and try out lots of different games without spending a dime!
Betting Options
Next on your journey of how to play slot machines. The options available to you when it comes to betting will be determined by the game you are playing. At its most basic, on the simplest 3 reel classic slots games. You will only have the option of deciding exactly how much to wager before you press spin. This could be anything from one penny/cent up to whatever the maximum amount of money the machine accepts is. Different jurisdictions impose different limits.
When you start playing 5 reel multi-payline slots things become a bit more interesting. As not only can you decide how much to wager but you can also decide how many paylines to wager on. So, for example, on a 25 payline game, you might decide to wager $1.00 on 20 paylines. Making your total bet for that spin $20.00. Obviously, the more paylines you have a wager on the greater your chance of hitting a win, the tradeoff being that you're risking more money with each additional wager.
On many multi-payline slots, you'll find a Bet Max button which automatically lets you wager the maximum amount (coins * paylines). Simply by hitting the one button. Remember that the button has been put there by casinos for a reason and that's to tempt you to spend the maximum amount as quickly as possible!
On our multi-payline slots games, you'll find buttons that let you easily determine how much you want to wager. On how many paylines plus there's a Bet Max money. With the added advantage in our games that you're not spending real money!
Where to Play Slots
It was only a few decades ago that slots players had to actually leave home to play slots games or pokies at a real location such as a casino or bar. However, now, of course, there's the option to play slots online via your computer or even to play slots almost anywhere at any time via a mobile phone. It's never been easier to access slots games.
When it comes to deciding where to actually play slots games. The rules are pretty simple: you need a well established, safe and trusted casino. That's offering you something in return for your time and money. Be that free chips, welcome bonuses, loyalty program or other rewards. Highest on your priority of potential places to play. Should probably be anywhere offering a no deposit bonus. This means you can log in and try out the games for free. Terms and conditions usually apply so watch out for any wagering requirements and small print! You can see our current recommended casinos, and their bonus offers by taking a look at our casino reviews.
Slots Jackpots
While we all enjoy playing slots for fun, the dream is to get that spin that hits the jackpot of course! Jackpots tend to come in one of two types. A main, predetermined jackpot that is won when a player gets a specific combination of symbols on the reels. Also, a progressive jackpot that builds up over time and can either be won by hitting a specific combination. Or can be won at any time by any player (a random progressive jackpot).
All slots games have a paytable or other type of instruction screen. That will tell you all about the jackpot(s) available and what you need to do to win them. As an example, you might be told that you can only win a jackpot if you wager a certain amount or make it through a multi-stage bonus game.
Progressive Jackpot Strategy
If you're playing a progressive jackpot game it can make sense to look for one with a random jackpot. This means it can be won at any time by any player. Regardless of their wagering history or even the symbols on the reels. This means the odds are the same for everyone. With other types of progressive jackpots, the jackpot may only be rewarded when certain conditions are met. Such as if a player has opted to Bet Max. This can favor those with the bankroll to finance several or even constant maximum bets.
You can't go wrong with our very own Progressive Jackpot games. As you can play for free but still win a cash prize if you hit the jackpot!
Slots Strategy
There is no guaranteed way to win at slots games. Don't believe anyone who tells you any different! However, playing slots games with the right frame of mind and some knowledge about what you're doing certainly doesn't do any harm. Along with using the strategies below can help tip things in your favor.
Good slots money management is the key to enjoying slots. So first and foremost, remember to never wager more than you can afford to lose. This is such a vital and basic strategy to commit to from the off. Sadly, people still neglect to take it on board.
Second, don't be tempted to chase your losses. If you've had a run of bad luck it can be tempting to go 'all in' or to double or even quadruple your wager. In an attempt to try and get back on track as quickly as possible. Many a slots player finds out the hard way that this can be a fast route to running out of credits.
Third, take frequent breaks. We all love slots games but if you're playing for long periods at a time without breaks it's easy to get sucked in. Or, even worse, addicted! Frequent breaks mean you can enjoy your slots, then relax and if necessary cool down before continuing to play.
Bonus Strategies
Another important thing when your learning how to play slot machines. Make sure you claim any no deposit bonuses, free chips etc. As soon as you see them. These are fantastic as they let you play slots games for free but still win prizes. You should always claim as soon as possible simply because casinos are in the habit of removing no deposit bonuses and free chips. Especially, when they think it's hitting their bottom line. If thousands of people are profiting from a $10 free chip on Monday, it could vanish on Tuesday! We list both the latest No Deposit Bonuses and Deposit Bonuses. So you can take advantage of all the latest offers.
Tip: When claiming bonuses don't forget to pay attention to any wagering requirements.
Loyalty Programs
Loyalty Programs are another essential tool in the slot players arsenal - different Casinos have different loyalty programs in operation but the basic principle is much the same: as you wager you will collect loyalty points and move up the ranks or tiers of the loyalty program which allows you to access special benefits, bonus offers and rewards.
Getting 10 free spins because you've had 100 wagers might not sound like much but one of those 10 free spins could be the one that reaps big rewards! Most online casinos have a policy of automatically enrolling in their loyalty programs so you don't have to do anything to participate but do check with your own online casino to make sure as you really don't want to miss out.
Slots Tournaments Strategy
Slots tournaments can provide a chance for strategic play in that a healthy selection of slots tournaments at your online casino of choice means you can pick and choose the best tournaments to enter - the holy grail is to find a tournament with a big jackpot that only has a few players thus increasing your chances of winning. Obviously, if you're playing in a tournament against 5000 other players then your odds of winning are lower. Keep a lookout too for freeroll tournaments - there's no entrance fee and every cent you save means more money to spend on the slots themselves.
If you want to get started with slots tournaments there's no better place than right here at Free Slots 4U as every month we run free to enter tournaments with cash prizes courtesy of some of the biggest online casinos.
Loss Limits
Some online casinos offer players protection with a loss limits feature. This means you can lock yourself out of your own account when your losses for your day or session reach a certain level. Pretty much every player believes themselves sensible enough not to need to use any built-in safety systems however the fact this isn't true is borne out by the fact that lots of gamblers walk away from games knowing they've lost much more money than they'd intended.
We highly recommend that if there's an inbuilt loss limit system in your casino software that you opt to use it! If no such tools exist then you should definitely put in place your own system - be aware of how much you can afford to lose in any one session, keep an eye on your spending and stop when you reach your limit.
Slot Machines Cheats
Sadly while there's no foolproof way to win money at casinos, there are a million ways to lose it! many look to cheats when learning how to play slot machines. We're sure that attempts to find ways to beat slots machines are as old as slot machines themselves. It's something of a controversial subject. Are there cast-iron guaranteed ways to beat a slot machine? If there are, we've certainly never come across any!
There are some amusing and interesting tales of players stumbling across and exploiting bugs in slots games. However, 'the house always wins', as they say, so if you do somehow manage to find a glitch to exploit don't be surprised if the casino refuses to pay out that multi-million pound jackpot and if you're a more dedicated cheat with some super secret slots game hacking technique up your sleeve, don't be surprised if law enforcement agents request a word with you when you try to claim your winnings!
Really, when it comes to playing slots, the best thing to do if you want to come out on top more often than other players is to stay in control and be sensible - never gamble more than afford to lose being the most obvious but also the most sensible advice you'll ever hear.
Now you've read our guide on how to play slot machines, you might also like to read our guide to the slots types you can play. Check out our history of slots games and learn more about slots machine symbols.
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Slots are the easiest games in the casino to play -- spin the reels and take your chances. Players have no control over what combinations will show up or when a jackpot will hit. There is no way to tell when a machine will be hot or cold. Still, there are some pitfalls. It's important to read the glass and learn what type of machine it is. The three major types of reel-spinning slots are the multiplier, the buy-a-pay, and the progressive.
Best Time To Play Slot Machines
The multiplier. On a multiplier, payoffs are proportionate for each coin played--except, usually, for the top jackpot. If the machine accepts up to three coins at a time, and if you play one coin, three bars pay back ten. Three bars will pay back 20 for two coins and 30 for three coins. However, three sevens might pay 500 for one coin and 1,000 for two, but jump to 10,000 when all three coins are played. Read the glass to find out if that's the case before playing less than the maximum coins on this type of machine.
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The buy-a-pay. Never play less than the maximum on a buy-a-pay, on which each coin 'buys' a set of symbols or a payout line. The first coin in might allow the player to win only on cherry combination, while the second coin activates the bar payouts, and the third coin activates the sevens. Woe is the player who hits three jackpot symbols on a buy-a-pay with only one coin played--the player gets nothing back. A variation is the machine with multiple payout lines, each activated by a separate coin. All symbols are active with each coin, but if a winning combination lines up on the third-coin payout line with only one or two coins played, the payoff is zero.
The progressive. You also have no reason to play less than maximum coins on a progressive machine. A player who eventually lines up the jackpot symbols gets a percentage of each coin played. The first progressive machines were self-contained--the jackpot was determined by how much that particular machine had been played since the last big hit. Today most progressives are linked electronically to other machines, with all coins played in the linked machines adding to a common jackpot.
These jackpots can be enormous -- the record is $39,710,826.26, a $1 progressive at a Las Vegas casino. The tradeoff is that frequency and size of other payouts are usually smaller. And you can't win the big jackpot without playing maximum coins.
If you must play fewer than maximum coins, look for a multiplier in which the final-coin jump in the top jackpot is fairly small. Better yet, choose a machine that allows you to stay within your budget while playing maximum coins. If your budget won't allow you to play maximum coins on a $1 machine, move to a quarter machine. If you're not comfortable playing three quarters at a time, move to a two-quarter machine. If you can't play two quarters at a time, play a nickel machine.
With so many paylines and the possibility of betting multiple coins per line, video slots are different. Some penny slots with 20 paylines take up to 25 coins per line. That's a $5 maximum bet -- a pretty penny indeed! Most players bet less than the max on video slots but are sure to cover all the paylines, even if betting only one coin per line. You want to be sure to be eligible for the bonus rounds that give video slots most of their fun. Some progressive jackpots require max coins bets, and some don't. If a max-coins bet is required to be eligible for the jackpot and you're not prepared to roll that high, find a different machine.
Money Management
Managing your money wisely is the most important part of playing any casino game, and also the most difficult part of playing the slots. Even on quarter machines, the amount of money involved runs up quickly. A dedicated slot player on a machine that plays off credits can easily get in 600 pulls an hour. At two quarters at a time, that means wagering $300 per hour -- the same amount a $5 blackjack player risks at an average table speed of 60 hands per hour.
Most of that money is recycled from smaller payouts--at a casino returning 93 percent on quarter slots, the expected average loss for $300 in play is $21. Still, you will come out ahead more often if you pocket some of those smaller payouts and don't continually put everything you get back into the machine.
One method for managing money is to divide your slot bankroll for the day into smaller-session bankrolls. If, for example, you've taken $100 on a two-and-a-half-hour riverboat cruise, allot $20 for each half-hour. Select a quarter machine -- dollar machines could devastate a $100 bankroll in minutes -- and play the $20 through once. If you've received more than $20 in payouts, pocket the excess and play with the original $20. At the end of one half-hour, pocket whatever is left and start a new session with the next $20.
If at any point the original $20 for that session is depleted, that session is over. Finish that half-hour with a walk, or a snack, or a drink until it is time for a new session. Do not dip back into money you've already pocketed.
That may seem rigid, but players who do not use a money management technique all too frequently keep pumping money into the machine until they've lost their entire bankroll. The percentages guarantee that the casino will be the winner in the long run, but lock up a portion of the money as you go along, and you'll walk out of the casino with cash on hand more frequently.
That is changing in new server-based slots that have started to appear in casinos. Operators will be able to change payback percentages at the click of a mouse, but they still must have regulatory approval to do so.
There is a lot more to slot machines than meets the eye. But if you learn the ins and outs of playing them, you can use some strategies that just might help you hit the jackpot.
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