Two types of Slot Machines
There are basically two types of slots.
Straight Slots
A Straight slots jackpot will remain at a set amount of money until
it is won, after which it resets and starts over again at that same
amount. For example, a straight jackpot may be set at $20,000 and
will remain at $20,000 until it is won, no matter how many coins are
deposited into the slot machine.
Progressive Slots
On the other hand, the amount of money that may be won playing
progressive slots is determined by the amount of money deposited
into the machine. Thus the progressive jackpot continuously increases
with each player until it is won.
To play straight or progressive slots, the player deposits a coin or
set of coins into the slot machine and selects the number of coins
to bet per spin. The player may then either press the 'Spin' button
or pull the arm of the slot machine to spin the reels. Once the
reels stop spinning, the player will either win or lose that spin.
Whether the player wins or loses, he may 'Cash Out' his share of
money from the machine or continue to play.
Today, slot machines are amongst the most popular games found in
casinos, accounting for over 30% of casino profit. This is due to a
number of reasons.
1. Slot machines are very easy to play and require no real test of
skill or knowledge. A player simply deposits coins into the machine
and presses a button. Once the reels stop spinning, the machine will
alert the player if the winning combination is struck or not.
2. There is no pressure to play against or interact with other
players as one may do in games such as Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat
and Poker.
3. There is no risk of someone trying to cheat during the game or
of the dealer making an honest mistake during a bet.
4. There is no time frame for one to make the next move. A slot
machine may be played at one's own pace without the player feeling
the need to hurry because someone else is waiting for his/her turn.
5. The game is played with real money and not casino chips. This
makes the game much more exciting in the sense that the player has
the opportunity to gamble with real currency.
6. The payout is instant and can sometimes run into the thousands
of dollars, especially if one is playing progressive slots.
For these set of reasons, the slot machine is currently one of the
most popular games found in a casino.
