Slot machine games are surrounded by myths and misconceptions. This article aims to highlight the main myths surrounding slots and what the real story is behind them. These myths are seen as excuses somewhat as to why players haven’t won. Reading about these myths will hopefully help you avoid the mistakes many players make as a result.
1 Slot machines are either ‘Hot’ or ‘Cold’.
This is probably the most common myth regarding slots around. The myth implies that if a slot machine hasn’t paid out in a while, it is therefore ‘Hot’ and due a big win. On the other hand, if a jackpot or big one has just been paid out, the game is considered ‘Cold’ so won’t be paying out any time soon. Slot machines are based on Random Number Generators so results are completely unpredictable.
2 Slot machines have pay cycles you can master.
Slot machines are based on Random Number Generators so patterns and cycles in slot games are impossible.
3 Winning Systems exist to beat slot machines.
Websites claiming to offer a guide to beating slots are unfounded and we recommend you avoid these at all costs. No method, system or particular action will change the result of the game in any way. On the other hand, increasing your stake may give you access to the maximum jackpot. It will not however increase your chances of winning any other combination. The key is to manage your bankroll properly and play within your limits.
4 Pulling a lever is more effective than pressing a button.
All slot machines are powered by an RNG so whether it is a level or button, the outcome will be exactly the same. A lever and button are just 2 ways of starting the game off. Levers are more traditional in land based casinos and classic slot games whilst buttons are a modern twist on the lever and are used in newer themed slot games.
5 The Payout Percentage varies during the game.
This is one misconception that is completely inaccurate. Slot machines are programmed by the software provider and this software is audited by various authorities. Some of the casinos are certified by eCOGRA which means that their RNGs are audited – read our previous article on Payout Percentages for more information.
6 Playing 1 coin at a time increases your chances of hitting a jackpot.
In order to win the maximum jackpot amount, the ‘Bet Max’ amount must be used. Look at the ‘Paytable’ of the particular slot game to see what will trigger the jackpot.
7 1 more spin will make you win.
This is the sign telling you to stop playing. Winning is not triggered by how many spins you play – it is completely random so could take 1 spin or 50 for that matter. Chasing losses is a bad thing so make sure to read our Ten Commandments of Playing at Online Casinos article.
8 The jackpot symbols were above/below the payline. I am due a win soon.
Websites claiming to offer a guide to beating slots are unfounded and we recommend you avoid these at all costs. No method, system or particular action will change the result of the game in any way. On the other hand, increasing your stake may give you access to the maximum jackpot. It will not however increase your chances of winning any other combination. The key is to manage your bankroll properly and play within your limits.
9 If the Payout Percentage is 95.04%, I will earn back £95 for every £100 I stake.
Whilst this is true to an extent, this is based on an average payout percentage. All game play across the game will result in this number being met but will factor in millions and even billions of spins over a long period of time.
10 A jackpot has just been won – now I won’t win one.
Like stated above, Random Number Generators dictate the wins so there could well be 2 jackpots hit one after another. A jackpot can also not be won for months for example.
As you can see, there are many myths surrounding slot games. None of the myths above are true so we recommend you use common sense when playing. If a slot game isn’t paying out, move on to another or stop playing. This will result in a better experience. All reputable slot games are randomized so check out the next article that highlights the best online casinos where you can play some of the most exciting slot games on the internet. Click here to read that article.