Whenever you spin the reels, does it ever occur to you how the machine actually decides your fate? Well, that is why we’ll give you all the basics of how online slots actually work.
It’s best to know that online slots are very popular casino games because of how fun and simple they are to explore. With all the colourful graphics and reels spinning, there is a concept behind it that makes every spin fair and random.
Knowing how online slot games work will allow you to identify games that suit your style. In this guide, we’ll talk about what online slots are, how they are played out with reels and pay lines, symbols, jackpots, bonuses, the meaning of RTP and volatility, and share a few useful tips before you start playing.
What are online slot games?
Online slots are a computer-generated edition of the classic gambling slot games that you might discover inside the traditional casino. Rather than pulling on an additional lever, you only need to press “Spin” to trigger the reels to move.
The aim is to match symbols across paylines to create winning combinations. Every game has a theme, graphics, soundtrack, symbols, and payout rules that make your expertise feel different.
Online slot games might be about ancient Egypt, wild animals, fantasyland, pirates, a fruit machine, or popular movies.
How do online slot games work?
The games use computer software to randomly make each of your turns. No game remembers if you won or lost previously because each spin is independently generated.
These slot games have advanced titles that contain a lot more exciting choices, casino bonus games, jackpots, special symbols, and many others. This actually gives extra entertainment, though the actual outcomes continue to be random.
Understanding the Reels and Rows
One of the first things you notice when the game is launched is the grid and graphics. Most online slots have 5 reels and 3 rows, and for classic slots, you can get 3, 4 or even 6 reels.
There is also something called Megaways games which can change the number of symbols on the reels. The reels can stop in a random position when you spin. The symbols that appear across the reels determine if you have landed a winning combination.
The reel layout can influence how the game goes, with some games offering thousands of possible payouts. Other slot games still keep to the traditional paylines.
What are paylines?
When we talk about paylines, we refer to the pattern that determines winning combinations. In the olden days, slot games were using straight horizontal lines. Now, slots have fixed or adjustable paylines and even more ways that pay in different directions.
For example, a game may have:
- 10 paylines
- 20 paylines
- 50 paylines
- 100 paylines
- More than 100,000 winning ways in Megaways games
The more paylines or winning ways a game has, the more chances there are for matching symbols during a spin. You can always check the game’s paytable to see exactly how the paylines work.
Understanding slot symbols
Each online slot will have different symbols, and all of them play a vital part in the game. Regular symbols pay out if you create winning combinations. Normally, the higher the value of the symbols, the higher your payouts will be.
Wild symbols are the “stand-ins” of other symbols on the reels. If you are only short of one symbol to create a winning line, a Wild will substitute that missing symbol and create the win. This means you’ll still be paid as normal. These can also appear as expanded, walking, or sticky wilds to add to the excitement.
Scatter symbols usually pay out when three or more appear anywhere on the reels (regardless of the paylines) to unlock special features, bonus games and free spins.
Some of these slot symbols will appear as bonus icons. When a certain number of these appear on the reels, they can trigger a unique mini-game or a special interactive bonus round with extra prizes up for grabs.
What is an RNG?
One of the fundamental components in an online slot machine, also known as a random number generator (RNG), is the underlying computer program that generates a series of random numbers continuously.
Whether you’re playing the game or not, the software generates thousands of numbers per second. When you click the “Spin” button, the number that is chosen dictates how the reels stop. Because every single spin is randomly generated, no past outcome will ever influence the current or future outcome. You basically can’t manipulate the odds.
What is RTP?
Return to Player (RTP) measures the average amount a given online slot game pays out over time. For example, an RTP of 96% on a slot means the machine pays back an average of R96 for every R100 in bets that are placed in it, over many spins.
However, this does not mean you’ll get back your R96 every time you bet R100. RTP is based on the average outcome. Simply put, the higher the percentage, the more of your total bets are expected to be returned to you over the long run. Something to keep in mind is that most games have an RTP between 94% and 97%.
What is volatility?
Volatility refers to how often a slot game pays and how large these payouts may be. By learning more about volatility, you’ll know what you can expect to find and what games will work for your style.
Low volatility
Low-volatility slots typically payout smaller sums of money more frequently. Many players love these kinds of games, and for good reason, as they offer more consistent results and longer gameplay.
Medium volatility
Medium-volatility slots offer a combination of wins, with players able to experience regular but small wins alongside occasional bigger wins. Many players love this middle ground as they want both regular and bigger payouts to add to their gameplay experience.
High volatility
High-volatility slots pay less often, but winning combinations will be much bigger. Players can spin for a good few goes before landing on any wins, but when they do, you should be excited.
The volatility will change on a game-by-game basis, so be sure to check out what kind of game you are looking at before you begin playing online slots.
Popular slot themes
The most enjoyable aspect of online slots is arguably the sheer diversity. From ancient gods to outer space and even food and drink, there is no theme that you cannot find. Some of the most popular themes can include the following:
- Ancient Egypt
- Greek Mythology
- Vikings
- Pirates
- Adventure
- Fantasy
- Animals
- Fruit Machines
- Lucky Charms
- Space
- Superheroes
- Festivals
- Food and Sweets
No matter the game, the theme does not affect your win rate, but only the graphics and sounds do.
Bonus features in online slots
One reason online slots have become so popular is the number of fun and unique bonus features that are included within these games. We’ll take a look at some of the most common:
Free Spins
With free spins you can grab a few extra spins on your favourite online slot without having to use your existing balance. The most common way to land free spins is by collecting three or more Scatter Symbols.
Multipliers
Multipliers simply multiply any winnings by 2, 3, 5, or much more. The bigger the multiplier, the bigger your wins.
Cascading Reels
Unlike typical slots that respin with each bet, cascading slots cause winning symbols to disappear and more to fall from the top of the screen – giving you a chance of winning again from just one single spin.
Expanding Wilds
Wilds will often extend or expand to cover an entire reel to help trigger more winning combinations.
Progressive Jackpots
Players bet into a pool of money with each spin, with all their bets contributing to a grand prize. That prize can grow to eye-watering sums.
Tips for playing online slot games
Although the games are based on luck, there are many tips that can ensure you have the best time possible when you play online slots.
- Bet on slot games with playTSOGO because they’re secured and well-regarded. Also, the games are made with official RNG software and checked routinely.
- Pay close attention to the RTP and volatility when you’re looking for new slot games. It’s important that you have an idea of what your game will offer you as well as how often.
- Only spend what you can afford. Set yourself a strict budget before playing online.
- Read the paytable as it offers the essential information regarding the slot that you are playing.
- Each and every slot will be different from the last, so explore and find what you enjoy most.
- Best of all, never forget that this is a game of chance. The only way to have a good time when playing online slot games is to bet what you can afford and keep it fun.
There are a million and one different strategies out there, but in the end, there is absolutely no strategy that will guarantee a win on online slot games. There are simply too many factors involved, so keep practising on demo mode until you find something that you like.
Bet on online slots
The online slot games may look like child’s play, but there are plenty of interesting and unique technologies working together. From the basic rules and mechanics all the way up to RNG software, RTP rates and more, it all creates one awesome gaming experience.
The better understanding that you have of all the elements like features and symbols, the better experience you’ll have. Bet on online slots with playTSOGO and have a smooth-sailing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do online slot games work?
Online slot games use Random Number Generator (RNG) software to produce completely random results every time you press the ‘Spin’ button.
What is RTP in slot games?
RTP stands for Return to Player. It shows the average percentage of money a slot game is designed to return over millions of spins.
What is volatility in online slots?
Volatility shows how often a slot pays and the size of potential payouts. Low-volatility games pay more often, while high-volatility games may pay larger prizes less frequently.
What are wild and scatter symbols?
Wild symbols can replace other symbols to help complete winning combinations. Scatter symbols usually trigger bonus features like free spins or bonus games.
Can you predict when a slot game will pay?
No, every spin is completely random, and previous results do not affect future spins.
