Slot machine technology has progressed in leaps and bounds in recent years. There are now many more features to consider than just a simple spin, such as a bonus round, interactive elements, and even the possibility of a multi-payline video slot.
In the UK, slots are classified by the Gambling Commission into different categories. The most common types are: ‘Reel’ (or three reel), ‘Video’ and ‘Multi-line’. These classifications are based on the number of paylines, number of coins per line, and number of credits available to the player. Video machines often have 9, 15, 25, or more paylines. Multi-line machines usually allow variable credits, which can increase the odds of winning.
Despite the myriad of variations on the slot machine theme, there are still some important things to remember. A basic slot machine is usually a lever activated device, which means you only get one chance to earn a payout. Usually, you’ll want to be lucky enough to hit a big payoff if you want to win. You’ll also want to check the pay table for the best payouts. Unlike a traditional game, you’ll be able to see the pay table on the machine itself, instead of in a separate help menu.
Another thing to know is that the smallest possible jackpot in a slot is not actually that small. Some slot games will have a payout of 5,000 coins, while others have a 10,000 coin jackpot. If you’re lucky, you may be able to play several bonus rounds in a row, resulting in a large payout. However, it’s rare that a slot machine fails to pay the minimum amount over a few spins.
It’s not uncommon for a video slot to have more than a thousand pay lines. This is due to the fact that a video slot multiplies a fixed payout value by the number of coins per line. Similarly, a video slot has several unique features that improve payout chances with increased wagers. For instance, some games use special symbols to boost payouts.
In fact, the ‘Mirror’ of the slot is an innovative feature patented by Pragmatic Play. This is a small bonus triggered by two special symbols on the main reels. When the bonus is triggered, the machine’s LCD display will light up with the symbols. As the reels spin, the lucky player will be rewarded with a special scene.
Other innovations include an ingenious way to retrigger the bonus. This is a nifty little feature which is designed to be a big win for the lucky gambler. Once the bonus is retriggered, the machine can make it even better. For example, you can continue to earn 15 coin payouts. And if you’re feeling particularly lucky, you might even be able to win one of the jackpots on offer!
Although not quite as flashy as some of the more advanced gaming devices, the ‘Mirror’ is a genuinely clever slot machine feature. This is not to be confused with the ‘Wi-Fi’ and ‘Google Glass’ technologies which are more aesthetically pleasing but less useful in practice.