There are many slot machine myths that have come up since the start of the gaming industry. Slot machines have been providing players with entertaining gambling experiences for decades. Due to the popularity of slot machines, there are various myths and misconceptions that have cropped up and spread throughout the player base.
We aim to debunk some of these common misconceptions while also providing a clear understanding of the facts that surround slot machines.
Myth: Payouts Are “Guaranteed” After a Set Number of Spins
A common misconception that players may have when playing slot machines is that these may be “due” for a payout after several losing spins. This is a myth because slot machines, like most gambling games, operate using a Random Number Generator or RNG. This system ensures that each spin will be entirely different from the previous spins. Each spin comes with the same chances of winning, regardless of the past results. There is no pattern that determines when a slot game will award a prize.
Myth: Casinos Control Slot Machines Remotely
There are some players that believe that slot sites can control the slot machines’ payouts in real-time so they can maximise their profits. This is a myth because slot machines are regulated by gambling commissions and related independent bodies to ensure that each slot game is fair. Each game comes with its own payout percentages, which are set and tested before these are added in any casino. Manipulating these machines would be a violation of various laws and regulations.
Myth: Payouts Stop After a Large Jackpot
Some casino players believe that slot machines will not pay out anymore after a large jackpot has been awarded. However, due to the RNG system that slot machines work with, each spin is independent from previous spins. If a large payout has just been awarded, there is still a chance that prizes may be won afterward. The chances of these are the same as with any spin, so there is no such thing as “hot” or “cold” slot machines.
Myth: Player Cards Affect Payouts
Various casinos implement a Player Card system. Some slot players believe that these cards can affect the payouts received. This is a myth because player cards are used solely to track the activities of the players. These include wager information, which may be used to collect points. This information is used for loyalty programs and various promotions that the casino may offer. These player cards have no effect on the RNG of the game you are playing.
End Line Slot Machines Pay Out More
This myth only applies to physical slot machines in casinos, but some players believe that the slot machines at the ends of the rows pay out more. This misconception may be due to the high traffic that slot machines at these places receive. However, the payout rates of these machines are not influenced by their location. Casinos may place popular slot games at these spots, but due to the RNG system, the payout chances are the same as with any slot game.
Myth: Manual Spins Are “Luckier” Than Autoplay Spins
Another misconception people have about slot machines is that manual spins are better than autoplay spins when it comes to their chances of winning. This is not true simply because of the RNG system that slot machines follow. Each spin, whether manually started or through autoplay, has the same chances of winning as any other spin.
Fact: Understanding Volatility is Important
Volatility is the risk level of slot games. Though high volatility slot games may pay out less frequently, these payout larger amounts. Low volatility slot games, on the other game, pay out smaller amounts, but more frequently. Understanding the concept of volatility helps players choose games that will match their risk tolerance.
Fact: Understanding Return to Player and House Edge Helps Players Make Informed Choices
There are various slot players that believe that they can properly play slot games without understanding the technical side of the games they are playing. However, without understanding RTP and House Edge, players may have a hard time making informed choices about these slot games.
RTP, or return to player, is the percentage of the wagered amount that players may get back over time. If a player wagers €100, a slot game with a 95% RTP may return €95 on average. The House Edge is the advantage casinos have over the players in the long run.
Slot Machine Players
Why Must We Debunk These Myths?
Slot machines are games that are chance-based. These follow an RNG system which does not guarantee payouts. At Gambling Zone, we believe that being able to distinguish the facts from the myths concerning these games is important for a positive gaming experience.
Debunking these common myths helps players understand how slot machines work. This also helps in promoting responsible gambling for all slot players. There are various myths that may lead to unrealistic expectations when it comes to gambling and this may lead to harmful gambling habits.
