Few things in this world grab a person’s attention like hitting a slot game jackpot. Whether it’s in person or through online slots, hitting that massive prize? Nothing beats it. Though, most people associate jackpots with one large prize that always stays the same. But not every jackpot works the same way in slots.
Between fixed and progressive slots, who comes out on top? What are the differences between them, and how do they work? We’ll go through that all right now. So, sit back, relax, and learn all about this casino game changer.
What Are Casino Jackpots?
To start off, what exactly are jackpots in slot games? They are basically grand prizes awarded in slot games that are larger than the usual payouts throughout the game. The jackpot is only awarded when you meet certain conditions in the game.
Depending on the slot, this can be by matching a certain symbol combination or gathering a certain amount of Scatter symbols in a bonus game. How you trigger the jackpot is dependent on the game you’re playing, and the conditions will be listed in the game’s rules.
During your slot adventures, you’ll come across two main types of jackpots. Fixed and progressive. The names are pretty straightforward. But to put it simply, fixed jackpots have a predetermined value, while progressive ones can increase over time until they’re won.
How Do Fixed Jackpots Work?
A fixed jackpot is a set amount that stays the same for every player. The value of the jackpot is usually expressed as a maximum multiplier in a game. A key feature of this fixed jackpot is that it never changes, regardless of how long you play or if a player wins it.
These types of slots typically benefit players who prefer having a predictable jackpot value and a simple structure to a game. There’s less to think about when spinning, and the focus is less about growing the jackpot and more about enjoying the game.
How Do Progressive Jackpots Work?
Unlike a fixed jackpot with a static value, a progressive jackpot starts at a base amount and increases over time, as you play. With some progressive games, a small portion of qualifying bets usually contribute toward the prize pool, so you can see the jackpot increasing as you spin.
Another thing about progressive jackpots in slots is that once somebody wins it, the value resets to its original base value. So, if the base value is R1,000, then several players can spin until the value reaches R50,000. When someone wins that R50,000, it resets back to R1,000.
The main advantage of progressive jackpots is that they usually have much larger jackpot sizes, though not always. Plus, watching your spins contribute toward an increased jackpot can be particularly exciting for some players.
Types of Progressive Jackpot Slot Games
Not all progressive jackpots work the same way. Some grow based on bets placed on a single game, while others can be connected to a larger network of games that make the prize pool increase quicker. Sounds confusing? Let’s break it down. Here are the four main types of progressive slots you might come across.
Standalone Progressive Slots
A standalone slot is the most basic. This is where the jackpot is linked to an individual game or instance in a game. Only bets placed in that instance and on that slot will contribute towards the jackpot. Because of this, these tend to grow more slowly.
Local Progressive Slots
Local progressive slots grow a little bit faster. These types of slots are connected within the same casino or network. Only eligible slots connect to one another, for example, different games in the same theme or series. All games played across these games (so multiple players at a time) contribute toward the jackpot.
Network or Wide-Area Progressive Slots
A network or a wide-area progressive slot can lead to even bigger wins. They follow the same idea as local slots and connect a larger network of games together that contribute to the jackpot. However, these can include games from multiple casino operators, platforms, or providers. That could potentially mean hundreds of players contributing to a jackpot at the same time. Talk about winning potential!
Must-Drop Jackpot
The final type of progressive jackpot is called a must-drop. These are designed in a way that the jackpot is won before it meets certain criteria. You can get four main sub-types:
- Daily Drop: Happens at least once a day
- Hourly Drop: Happens once an hour
- Must-Drop Time: There’s a hidden countdown (you can’t see) toward a time where the jackpot is won
- Must-Drop Amount: The prize is won before the jackpot reaches a maximum value
Explore Fixed and Progressive Slot Games With playTSOGO
Whether you want to explore slot games with goddesses and powerful fighters, Norse or Greek myths, or epic fantasy tales, we’ve got plenty of options. Fixed and progressive alike. And luckily, it’s super easy to get started.
Simple log in to your account or register an account with playTSOGO if you’re new. There’s no doubt you’ll find a game that suits you and your jackpot dreams.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens to a progressive jackpot when you win?
When you win the pot in a progressive jackpot slot, the value resets to a predetermined value. This is usually a smaller amount, not zero.
Can casino jackpots be won more than once?
Yes! Once you win both a fixed and progressive jackpot, you’ll be able to win it again.
Do you need to place the maximum bet to win a jackpot?
Not always. Some slot games require you to place certain bets to qualify for the higher jackpots, as there may be multiple different jackpots within the same game. For instance, if a game has a minor and grand jackpot, the grand jackpot may require the maximum bet. Always check the game rules and paytable to make sure before getting started.
Does a bigger progressive jackpot mean it’s more likely to win?
No, a progressive jackpot doesn’t increase your chances of winning. The probability of hitting the jackpot is ultimately down to the game’s rules and the way it was designed. The odds of winning don’t increase the higher the jackpot value is.
